Before You Book Surgery
Science-backed protocols from leading health researchers that may help you avoid costly procedures — and keep more money in your pocket.
6
Conditions Covered
12
Protocols Reviewed
$0
Many protocols cost
4–12wk
Typical timeframe
Important: These protocols are for informational purposes only and are not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan.
Surgery cost
$30,000–$50,000
Knee Replacement
Knee Pain
Most knee pain responds to movement — not the knife.
Andrew Huberman
Neuroscience & Performance
Zone 2 Cardio + Collagen Protocol
Low-intensity cardio 3–4x/week to rebuild cartilage. 15g collagen + Vitamin C 30 min before exercise.
Peter Attia
Longevity Medicine
Strength Training + PRP Therapy
Progressive resistance training to offload the joint. PRP injections as a non-surgical alternative.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
Surgery cost
$20,000–$80,000
Spinal Fusion / Discectomy
Chronic Back Pain
80% of back pain resolves without surgery — with the right protocol.
Andrew Huberman
Neuroscience & Performance
McGill Big 3 + Yoga Nidra
Three exercises (curl-up, bird dog, side plank) for spinal stability. Yoga nidra for nervous system regulation.
Peter Attia
Longevity Medicine
Deadlift Rehab Protocol
Properly coached deadlifts rebuild posterior chain strength that protects the spine long-term.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
Surgery cost
$15,000–$35,000
Bariatric Surgery
Type 2 Diabetes / Pre-Diabetes
Metabolic disease is largely reversible — without surgery.
Gary Brecka
Human Biology & Biohacking
Methylation + Oxygen Protocol
Identify MTHFR gene variants, correct with methylated B vitamins, combine with breathwork and grounding.
Rhonda Patrick
Nutrition & Longevity
Time-Restricted Eating + Sauna
16:8 intermittent fasting, high-heat sauna 4x/week for AMPK activation, and sulforaphane supplementation.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
Surgery cost
$30,000–$200,000
Stent / Bypass Surgery
Cardiovascular Risk
Most cardiac risk factors respond dramatically to lifestyle intervention.
Peter Attia
Longevity Medicine
Zone 2 + VO2 Max Training
3–4 hrs/week of Zone 2 cardio plus 1 VO2 max session. "The best drug we have" for longevity.
Andrew Huberman
Neuroscience & Performance
Cold + Heat Contrast Therapy
Alternating sauna and cold plunge improves endothelial function, blood pressure, and lipid profiles.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
Surgery cost
$2,000–$10,000
Various hormone procedures
Hormonal Imbalance / Low T
Most hormonal issues respond to targeted lifestyle interventions first.
Gary Brecka
Human Biology & Biohacking
30-30-30 Morning Protocol
30g protein within 30 min of waking, 30 min Zone 2 movement. Combined with grounding.
Andrew Huberman
Neuroscience & Performance
Light + Sleep Optimization
Morning sunlight, evening light avoidance. Testosterone is largely produced during deep sleep.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
Surgery cost
$200–$500/month ongoing
Long-term psychiatric medication
Anxiety & Depression
Exercise, sleep, and light are some of the most powerful antidepressants studied.
Andrew Huberman
Neuroscience & Performance
NSDR + Exercise Protocol
Non-Sleep Deep Rest 10–20 min daily. 30+ min vigorous exercise 3–5x/week — shown as effective as SSRIs.
Rhonda Patrick
Nutrition & Longevity
Omega-3 + Magnesium Stack
High-dose omega-3 (2–4g EPA/day) for depression. Magnesium glycinate for anxiety. Evidence-backed.
Lower-Cost Medical Alternatives
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