This is Part 2 of the Nicotine Masterclass. If you haven’t heard Part 1, start there for a full breakdown of nicotine’s mechanisms, myths, and the science behind its misunderstood role in longevity, nootropics, and human performance.
Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjehLsHaRnE&t=1063s*
Nicotine is one of the most misunderstood nootropics in the world—and one of the most powerful tools for brain optimization and longevity when used correctly. In this episode, Host Dave Asprey breaks down how to harness nicotine for cognitive enhancement, metabolism, and human performance without falling into addiction. You’ll learn the real science behind dosage, timing, and cycling, plus how nicotine interacts with mitochondria, acetylcholine, and neuroplasticity to boost focus, motivation, and mental energy.
Host Dave Asprey reveals practical biohacking templates for using nicotine safely and effectively—covering metabolism genetics, stack combinations, and how nicotine fits into a smarter not harder lifestyle. You’ll discover how low-dose nicotine can support attention, memory, and even protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Dave also shares his own five-year nicotine protocol, how he avoided dependence, and why nicotine can be a game-changer for brain and mitochondrial performance when used intelligently.
You’ll Learn:
• How to use nicotine as a safe, powerful nootropic for brain optimization and focus
• The genetics of nicotine metabolism and why dose timing matters
• How to stack nicotine with caffeine, theanine, and rhodiola for maximum energy and motivation
• Why nicotine enhances mitochondria and PGC-1α for better metabolism and longevity
• The truth about nicotine tolerance, cycling, and how to avoid addiction
• How nicotine affects sleep, neuroplasticity, and dopamine signaling
• What science says about nicotine’s protective effects against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
• How to integrate nicotine into a complete biohacking protocol with fasting, ketosis, and supplements
This episode is essential for anyone exploring biohacking, functional medicine, fasting, ketosis, sleep optimization, and cognitive resilience. You’ll learn how nicotine stacks with caffeine, theanine, rhodiola, and supplements for sharper thinking and sustained focus—plus the key mistakes to avoid so you don’t wreck your sleep or metabolism. Whether you’re a seasoned biohacker or just beginning your journey, this episode gives you the science, tools, and protocols to elevate your mind and body safely.
Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights in health, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living.
New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient.
Thank you to our sponsors!
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Timestamps:
00:00 – Trailer
01:25 – Review of Pt 1
02:48 – Genetics & Metabolism
06:05 – Stacking with Other Compounds
09:23 – Tolerance & Dependence
13:42 – Fertility & Contraindications
17:05 – Real World Use Templates
21:40 – Travel & Jet Lag Protocol
24:29 – Biohacking Lifestyle Integration
25:31 – Longevity & Neuroprotection
28:24 – Medical Applications & Research
31:51 – Final Thoughts & Summary
Connect with Dave Asprey!
Website: https://daveasprey.com
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Daveaspreyofficial/
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/daveaspreybpr
The Human Upgrade Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/TheHumanUpgradePodcast/ https://m.facebook.com/Thehumanupgrade/
Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/DAVE15
Dave Asprey’s BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com/
Dave Asprey’s New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated/
Dave’s favorite supplements: https://www.shopsuppgradelabs.com/discount/DAVE15
Upgrade Collective: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com
Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com
40 Years of Zen: https://40yearsofzen.com
