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You’ve probably seen it on social media—people swishing around bright blue tongues, swearing by methylene blue as the next big thing in brain health. But is it all hype, or is there actually something to it?

As a long-time shift worker and nutritionist, I’m breaking down what methylene blue really is, how it works in the body, and whether it’s worth your attention—especially if you’re juggling night shifts, fatigue, or brain fog.

Methylene blue has a fascinating backstory. It started out as a textile dye in the 1800s, became a malaria treatment in the 1890s, and now it’s showing up in biohacking circles as a potential cognitive enhancer. What makes it interesting is its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and support energy production in the mitochondria—your cells’ powerhouses.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• What methylene blue actually does in the brain
• The research around memory, mental clarity, and mitochondrial health
• Why getting the dose right is crucial—and how too much can be harmful, especially if you're on antidepressants or SSRIs
• Why aquarium-grade methylene blue is not the same as the stuff used in research
• And most importantly—why your basics like sleep, food, movement, and stress management still come first

This isn’t about fearmongering or hype—it’s about understanding the science and being smart with your health. If you’re curious about methylene blue or looking for practical, evidence-backed ways to support your brain while working odd hours, this episode is for you.

Support the show

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Roger Sutherland is Australia's Night Shift & Sleep Specialist and the founder of A Healthy Shift.

After more than 40 years working rotating shifts with Victoria Police, Roger now helps organisations reduce fatigue risk, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier, safer and higher-performing 24/7 workplaces through evidence-based education, circadian biology and the Shift Work Champions™ Framework.

Shift Work Champions™: https://join.ahealthyshift.com/shift-work-capability

Website: https://ahealthyshift.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roger-sutherland

Instagram: @a_healthy_shift

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Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional.  Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast, including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.

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