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I don't think a day goes by where I am not asked or see a post about peptides.
But what exactly are peptides and are they something you should consider? Let's break it down.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that activate cell pathways by reacting with cell receptors. Peptides can contain chains of 2 to 40 or more amino acids. This differs from a protein, which is composed of 20 specific amino acids. Proteins are building blocks for tissue, peptides are what activate that pathways that control tissue growth, healing, and regeneration. Common peptides in the category of regeneration and healing include BPC-157, TB500, and GHK-Cu.
Some peptides can also activate growth hormone by mimicking growth hormone receptor hormone (GHRH). These are known as peptide secretagogues and analogs - sermorelin, CJC-1295, ipamorelin, and tesamorelin. And of course we also have the weight loss category as well - glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1): tirzepatide and retatrutide.
While I do believe peptides can be beneficial, there are some specific things regarding safety and effectiveness that you need to consider:
- Peptides are prohibited in the military and any DOW componenet as well as in any WADA sporting events. See the DOD Prohibited substance list here.
- Non-pharmaceutical peptides, i.e. "Gray Market Research Peptides" have zero regulation behind them. And you will get what you pay for - if you are paying less than $200 for a 30 day supply you are likely getting low quality, riskier products. The back room of your local supplement shop is not the place to look for quality products.
- Peptides CANNOT replace adequate nutrition - especially for rehab situations. Peptides can stimulate growth and recovery but if you're low on calories and nutrients that affect is diminished. You are essentially throwing money down that drain because you aren't hitting your daily protein or calorie intake needs.
*This article contains AI generated photos. All content is author's original content and no text was created with the help of AI.
Interested in learning more about peptides or if they are right for you?
Join the SPEAR performance coaching program where we dive deeper into peptides: what to take, how to administer, and how to source them legally.
Check out the articles below to level up your nutrition and performance knowledge:
- Safety and Efficacy of Approved and Unapproved Peptide Therapies for Musculoskeletal Injuries and Athletic Performance. This article covers the most common peptides used in performance and rehab settings as well as advice on how to talk to patients / athletes regarding safety and use.
- Beyond the Androgen Receptor: The Role of Growth Hormone secreatgogues in modern management of body composition in hypogonadal males. This review article discusses common growth hormone secretagogues and their use in treatment of male hypogonadism.
My choice for hormone and peptide therapy:
Wittmer Rejuvenation Clinic
Wittmer Rejuvenation Clinic is a trusted and reliable clinic that is dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized hormone replacement therapy.
Wittmer is who I currently trust with my own personal hormone therapy. I appreciate their approach to personalized care and the customer experience is top notch!
*Some links contained within this article are affiliate links for which I receive compensation. However, I never recommend products that I don't either use or trust. You may also receive special discounts with my links. Win / Win!
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