Methylene Blue for Bodybuilding and Beyond
by Andrew Berry on January 28, 2025At Mountaindogdiet.com we try and share the things we are experimenting with on ourselves and with clients in real time. Unless you live under a rock, you are probably seeing and hearing lots of people talk about using Methylene Blue as part of their bodybuilding or well-being regimen. This article won’t go over all the potential benefits of MB because more things are being learned about it every day. Let’s go over what is and a few reasons why everyone is taking it.
First, what is it?
Methylene blue (MB) is a synthetic compound initially developed as a dye (think blue jeans) but later recognized for its diverse therapeutic applications, ranging from treating methemoglobinemia and carbon monoxide poisoning to its neuroprotective properties. Recently, MB has garnered attention among athletes and bodybuilders for its potential to enhance performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Let’s look at seven potential benefits of using Methylene Blue from a bodybuilding perspective.
1. Enhanced Mitochondrial Function
The mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouse of the cell,” are critical for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the body. Every cell in your body uses ATP. Often as we age or due to genetic mutations and exposure to toxins and stress, mitochondrial output declines and becomes less than optimal. When mitochondria stop working effectively, cells experience energy deficits, accumulate damage, and may undergo apoptosis or necrosis, which can contribute to various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic syndromes, and organ dysfunction. Methylene blue acts as an electron carrier in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, bypassing damaged complexes and enhancing ATP production (Rojas et al., 2012). This boost in energy availability can help bodybuilders sustain high-intensity workouts and delay fatigue. A positive effect from this is better insulin sensitivity and efficient mitochondrial function is critical for insulin signaling, as cellular energy availability directly influences glucose uptake and metabolism.
2. Cognitive Enhancement and Focus
Training requires not only physical strength but also mental focus and clarity. MB has been shown to increase cerebral oxygen consumption and improve memory retention by supporting mitochondrial function in the brain (Schirmer et al., 2011). Enhanced cognitive performance can help bodybuilders stay focused during complex routines and maintain motivation during intense training regimens.
3. Antioxidant Properties
Bodybuilding-induced oxidative stress is a byproduct of intense physical exertion, leading to muscle fatigue and delayed recovery. MB is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS) and prevents oxidative damage (Wen et al., 2011). This protective effect can promote faster recovery and reduce muscle soreness, enabling athletes to train more effectively.
4. Stress and Cortisol Regulation
While more research is needed, MB may influence the body’s stress response. Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, can be detrimental to muscle building as it promotes protein breakdown. Methylene blue’s neuroprotective effects may extend to regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which controls cortisol secretion (Naylor et al., 1987). By keeping cortisol levels in check, MB may indirectly support muscle growth and maintenance.
5. Cellular Energy and Recovery
Rapid recovery is essential for athletes who train frequently. By optimizing mitochondrial function, methylene blue can enhance the body’s ability to recover from intense workouts. This includes reducing inflammation and promoting cellular repair, which are critical for muscle adaptation and growth (Atamna et al., 2008).
6. Anti-Aging and Longevity Benefits
As bodybuilders age, cellular efficiency declines, impacting performance and recovery. MB’s ability to protect mitochondrial DNA and reduce cellular senescence may help athletes maintain peak physical performance over time (Atamna et al., 2008). In short, it can help delay the inevitable. We all know father time is undefeated, but it doesn’t mean we can’t slow him down.
Dosing
I recommend taking somewhere between 10 and 20 mg a day. Start low and work your way up. Higher doses can lead to side effects like nausea and headaches. I think the best time to take MB is fasted in the morning. I have several friends that are experimenting with dosing multiple times a day and with up to 40 mg a day. I currently enjoy benefits using 15 mg per day.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Despite its benefits, methylene blue should be used cautiously:
- Interactions: MB can interact with medications such as SSRIs and MAO inhibitors, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome. It is not recommended to use MB or to consult your doctor first.
- Purity: Ensure the product is pharmaceutical grade to avoid contaminants. You can find many products on Amazon and shopping on the internet.
- Messy: MB is messy and of course it’s a dye. Be careful when mixing your solution if it comes powdered. I do mine over the sink and use the same mug every day as I don’t care if it stains it.
Conclusion
Methylene blue is a promising supplement for bodybuilders, offering benefits ranging from enhanced energy production and recovery to improved mental focus and reduced oxidative stress. I think most athletes using MB will see some improved mental clarity, better recovery from workouts, improved insulin sensitivity and better body composition.
References
1. Atamna, H., Nguyen, A., Schultz, C., Boyle, K., Newberry, J., & Kato, H. (2008). Methylene blue delays cellular senescence and enhances key mitochondrial biochemical pathways. FASEB Journal, 22(3), 703-712.
2. Naylor, G. J., Smith, A. H., & Connelly, P. (1987). Methylene blue in the treatment of manic-depressive psychosis. Lancet, 329(8549), 740-742.
3. Rojas, J. C., John, J. M., Lee, J., & Gonzalez-Lima, F. (2012). Methylene blue provides behavioral and metabolic neuroprotection against optic neuropathy. Neuroscience, 193, 1-10.
4. Schirmer, R. H., Adler, H., Pickhardt, M., & Mandelkow, E. (2011). Lest we forget you—methylene blue. Neurobiology of Aging, 32(12), 2325.e7-2325.e16.
5. Wen, Y., Li, W., Poteet, E. C., Xie, L., Tan, C., Yan, L. J., & Yang, S. H. (2011). Alternative mitochondrial electron transfer as a novel strategy for neuroprotection. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 286(18), 16504-16515.
Andrew is a strength coach and nutritionist in the South Burlington, Vermont area. Andrew has worked with John closely for several years and knows the ins and outs of the Mountain Dog philosophy and is an integral part of the team.