The Liver Doc against Bryan Johnson’s anti-ageing ‘Blueprint’: What we know about the big faceoff
Now, the 47-year-old founder of Kernel (known for developing non-invasive neuroimaging technology) and OS Fund (a $100 million investment fund launched in 2014 to support scientists working on advanced engineering of atoms, molecules, and complex systems) is back in the spotlight—this time, for a fiery online clash with Indian doctor Cyriac Abby Philips, better known as “The Liver Doc.” The topic of debate? Johnson’s anti-ageing programme, Blueprint.
What Is Blueprint?
Think of Blueprint as Johnson’s attempt at hacking the ageing process. It’s a strict regimen involving a plant-based diet, daily exercise, and an exhaustive list of supplements—many of which he now sells under his newly commercialised Blueprint brand.
Johnson claims that by following this meticulous routine, he has reversed his biological age, boasting biomarkers as youthful as those of an 18-year-old. His product line promises to boost energy, improve sleep, and reduce stress, all in the name of longevity.
Doctor vs. The Biohacker
Enter Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, a Kerala-based hepatologist famous for calling out pseudoscience and unproven medical claims. He wasted no time in challenging Johnson’s programme, accusing him of selling overpriced, potentially harmful supplements without solid scientific backing.
“It’s terrifying that people don’t recognise Bryan Johnson as an advanced, well-marketed version of fraudsters like Elizabeth Holmes and Belle Gibson,” Philips wrote in a post on X. “Selling overpriced and completely useless tests while pushing potentially dangerous ‘snake oil’ supplements under the name Blueprint.”
Elizabeth Holmes, the former CEO of Theranos, is currently serving an 11-year prison sentence in Texas for fraud and conspiracy, having misled investors about her company’s blood-testing technology and financial health. Annabelle Natalie Gibson, better known as Belle Gibson, is an Australian health influencer-turned-fraudster who falsely claimed to have multiple cancers and promoted alternative medicine as a cure. In 2015, she admitted that her cancer diagnoses were fabricated.
Johnson fired back with a rather unexpected response: “Cyriac, why are you so angry? Who hurt you?” He defended Blueprint, claiming all its ingredients—such as extra virgin olive oil, proteins, and various nutrients—are backed by independent research and third-party tested for safety. He also insisted that the certificates of analysis for his products are publicly available.
Also Read: India emerges as a global wellness hub: Ayurveda, yoga, and luxury healing retreats drive surge
Demand for Proof
Dr Philips wasn’t satisfied. He privately messaged Johnson, pressing for clinical studies proving Blueprint’s supplements actually increase longevity. He also questioned how Johnson determined the right dosages. When he allegedly didn’t receive a response, Philips took the conversation public, sharing screenshots of their exchange.
“You personally messaged me, and I asked rational questions. Still waiting on your answers,” he wrote. “Where is the proof that this mix actually increases life expectancy/longevity? Is there a preclinical study in mice or primates or pigs? We will get to human studies later. At least proof-of-concept studies?”
The core issue is that while Johnson points to studies supporting individual ingredients in Blueprint, Philips argues that combining these substances into a single regimen is an entirely different ballgame—one without conclusive scientific validation. He also pointed out that many Blueprint ingredients, like NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine), ginger, curcumin, red yeast rice, and garlic, are widely available for a fraction of the cost.
Another major concern is safety. Even if individual ingredients have known health benefits, there are no large-scale studies examining how they interact when combined or whether long-term use is risk-free. Philips also cautioned that some botanical extracts can have unintended side effects.
Despite the criticism, Johnson remains firm in his stance. He argues that his own results—lower biological age markers and improved health—are proof that Blueprint works. However, for Dr Philips, personal anecdotes don’t equate to scientific proof.
Also Read: 10 foods you should avoid eating if you suffer from PCOS
Earlier Controversies
This isn’t the first time Johnson has been embroiled in a controversy. The anti-ageing millionaire has been accused of creating an uncomfortable work environment, with former employees alleging inappropriate behaviour, including discussions of a sexual nature and instances of nudity.
A New York Times report claims Johnson often walked around with minimal clothing at work and openly discussed his “sexual activities, including erections.” He also allegedly engaged in flirtatious conversations with female employees, making them uneasy.
These allegations come amid scrutiny over Johnson’s use of confidentiality agreements to control his public image and business dealings. At least three former employees have filed complaints with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), challenging the legality of these agreements and accusing him of silencing dissent.
Johnson defended his policies, arguing that transparency is key. “I post nudes on social media. I track my nighttime erections. My team openly discusses my semen health. We make dank memes,” he wrote on X. “Rather than letting people walk in blind, we disclose this upfront, in writing, so there are no surprises. This isn’t coercion.”
Also Read: Struggling with PCOS? These 9 teas can help you manage the symptoms
link
