Theranos’ Elizabeth Holmes Asks Bryan Johnson for a Prison Nutrition Plan — Here’s What He Gave Her

Self-proclaimed longevity expert Bryan Johnson recently crafted a customized version of his “Don’t Die” nutrition protocol adapted for prison settings. He provided it in response to a request from Elizabeth Holmes, the convicted former CEO of Theranos, who is currently serving an 11-year sentence for fraud. Their digital interaction drew widespread public interest.

Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos

Elizabeth Holmes rose to prominence after founding Theranos Inc. in 2003 at age of 19. The privately held health technology company claimed to have developed a revolutionary method for conducting blood tests using just a few drops of blood and compact automated devices. Backed by more than US$700 million in funding, Theranos reached a valuation of around $9 billion by 2013 and 2014. However, investigations later revealed that the company’s claims were false, leading to one of the most notable cases of health technology fraud in recent decades. Holmes was convicted on charges of fraud and conspiracy in 2022.

On September 2, Holmes returned to posting on X (formerly Twitter) and reached out to Bryan Johnson, asking: “Can you craft a ‘Don’t Die’ prison edition from this commissary list?” Responding, Johnson tailored his nutrition guidance to the limited food options typically available in prison. His suggestions immediately captured attention in social media and news circles.

What Is the ‘Don’t Die’ Plan?

Bryan Johnson developed the “Don’t Die” protocol as part of his Blueprint longevity regimen. It includes scientifically measured dietary components, daily routines, and extensive health monitoring aimed at optimizing biological age and systemic health. The prison version modifies these elements to align with commissary availability and institutional restrictions.

The exchange quickly went viral. Many social media users joked that Johnson’s disciplined regimens could theoretically enable Holmes to live well beyond the end of her sentence. Others debated the broader implications of longevity science reaching incarcerated individuals.

While the incident may appear light-hearted, it underscores growing interest in nutritional interventions even under constrained environments like prison. Research shows that structured dietary plans and nutrient-based regimens can influence metabolic health, inflammation, and biomarkers of aging. ^[1,2]

However, it is important to note that such protocols vary widely in scientific validation and accessibility.

References:

1. Andrew C. Phillips et al., “Impact of Daily Physical Activity on Long-Term Health: A Prospective Cohort Study,” PLOS Medicine 19, no. 3 (2022): accessed September 8, 2025, https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1003889.

2. Frank B. Hu, “Diet Strategies for Promoting Healthy Aging and Longevity: An Epidemiological Perspective,” Journal of Internal Medicine 295, no. 4 (2024): 508–531, accessed September 8, 2025, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37867396/.

(Rh/Eth/TL/MSM)