What’s worth the hype and what’s not…
You already know I love a good wellness gadget, especially when it genuinely makes you feel better. Over the years, I’ve tried a lot—some were game-changers, others… not so much.
The world of biohacking can feel overwhelming, like you need a $10,000 setup just to have decent energy or a good night’s sleep. Spoiler alert: You don’t.
Here are several biohacking products (and trends) I find overrated—and what to do instead for real, sustainable results.
(Worth noting that my favorite LumeBox and castor oil packs are NOT overrated.)
Biohacking Habits I Think Are Overrated
1. Random Supplements
If you’ve ever looked at someone’s supplement stack and thought, “Should I be taking more?”—you’re not alone. But loading up on random pills without a clear reason can strain your liver, drain your wallet, and potentially worsen symptoms.
Many of us take things our bodies don’t need—or can’t even absorb properly—because we saw someone on TikTok recommend it.
Try this instead:
Start with functional testing. This could include tests for minerals, gut health, inflammation, hormones, and food sensitivities. I do this with my 1:1 clients, and it’s a game-changer. You’ll save money and get better results by supporting what your body actually needs. Testing removes the guesswork. If you’re interested, email me at gina@fitnessista.com with “Testing” in the subject line.
2. Cold Showers for Everyone
Cold showers are everywhere these days. While they can have some benefits (like reducing inflammation and boosting resilience), they’re not for everyone, especially women dealing with hormonal imbalances, adrenal fatigue, or autoimmune issues.
If your nervous system is already in overdrive, jumping into a freezing bath might stress it even more.
Try this instead:
Start slow. Try a brief cold shower at the end of a warm one, or finish with a cold splash on your face. Focus on regulating your nervous system first—think breathwork, gentle movement, and prioritizing sleep. Then, if your body feels ready, gradually introduce cold exposure. Also, heat exposure, like my beloved sauna blanket, might be a much better fit! I personally prefer heat over cold.
3. Overpriced PEMF Devices with Wild Claims
I love PEMF therapy and use HigherDose regularly—it’s part of my morning routine. But some of the ultra-expensive PEMF mats on the market promise everything from total recovery to “reprogramming your cells.”
Try this instead:
Find a well-reviewed, affordable PEMF device that fits your needs. Use it consistently and pair it with other healing tools like red light therapy, grounding, or journaling. It’s not about the fanciest device—it’s about your habits. Use FITNESSISTA15 for 15% off at HigherDose!!
4. Nootropic Blends with Zero Research
These “brain-boosting” pills and capsules might look cool on your shelf, but many are packed with proprietary blends and stimulants backed by little to no research.
Try this instead:
Support your brain naturally: Get morning sunlight, eat healthy fats, and try whole-food-based adaptogens like lion’s mane, L-theanine, or magnesium threonate from reputable brands. Real energy starts with the basics: sleep, blood sugar balance, and hydration.
5. Blue Light Blockers… All Day
Blue light blockers at night are fantastic. But wearing orange glasses all day? Not helpful. Your body needs blue light in the morning and early afternoon for energy, alertness, and circadian rhythm regulation.
Try this instead:
Within 30 minutes of waking up, expose your eyes (no glasses or contacts) to natural light. Even 5–10 minutes outdoors helps set your circadian rhythm, support cortisol balance, and improve sleep later. For the best blue light blockers you can wear all day (just swap the lenses), I highly recommend VivaRays (code FITNESSISTA).
6. Sleep Trackers That Stress You Out
Over the years, I’ve tried several sleep trackers—and here’s the truth: If it’s causing more stress or making you obsessed with your “sleep score,” it’s probably not helping. Sleep is about more than data; it’s about how you feel.
Try this instead:
Notice how you feel each morning and focus on creating a bedtime routine you actually look forward to: magnesium, stretching, reading, or sauna time. Trust your body more than your app.
7. $7,000 Cold Plunge Tubs
I’ll say it again for the people in the back: You don’t need a luxury ice bath to reap the benefits of cold exposure. Cold therapy is amazing, but a 60-second cold shower works just as well (and costs exactly $0).
Try this instead:
Use what you have. A bowl of ice water for your face, a cold rinse after a shower, or a DIY cold bath in the tub with some ice packs from the freezer. Bonus: It builds resilience and can support your vagus nerve.
Friendly reminder:
Biohacking isn’t about doing everything or having all the fancy tools—it’s about being intentional with your habits, your energy, and your health.
If something feels like it’s adding stress, draining your wallet, or creating confusion… it probably isn’t helping.
Start with the basics:
- Quality sleep
- Real food
- Nervous system regulation
- Functional testing
- Movement you enjoy
- Morning light
- Stress management tools
The most powerful biohacks are simple, consistent, and sustainable.
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these trends or if there’s something you’re curious about—I’m happy to test things out so you don’t have to.
xo,
Gina
For a roundup of my favorite biohacking products, check out this post.
And if you want the first dibs on what I’m trying, using, and what’s working for me, make sure you’re signed up for my newsletter.
