WHAT ARE PEPTIDES? 

Peptides.  You may be hearing about peptides quite a bit these days.  So, what are peptides?  The simplest definition of a peptide is “a short chain of amino acids”, which you may remember hearing back in high school science class, are the “building blocks of proteins”.  When amino acids link together in long chains, they form proteins. When they form shorter chains (typically fewer than 50 amino acids), they are called peptides.

Think of peptides as the body’s internal email system. They act as signaling molecules, traveling through the bloodstream to attach to specific receptors on the surface of cells. Once attached, they deliver instructions that tell the cell to perform a specific function, such as releasing hormones, healing tissue, or reducing inflammation.

Our bodies naturally produce thousands of peptides from proteins that we eat, supplements, or directly from DNA messages.  As we age, our body’s ability to make some of these peptides starts to decline.  This can lead to weight gain, low energy, loss of muscle mass (called sarcopenia), increased inflammation, poor sleep, and reduced ability to fight off infections.  We do have the ability to supplement some of these peptides in people experiencing some of these symptoms.  

Interesting fact: The first peptide therapy was insulin.  There are dozens of peptide therapies available. 

How they work

Peptide therapy involves using specific peptides to mimic or supplement the body’s natural signaling processes. Because peptides are so specific—acting like a key that fits only one lock—they can target precise biological pathways with potentially fewer side effects than traditional medications that have broader systemic effects.

Therapy is usually administered via subcutaneous injections, though some peptides are available as cream, nasal spray, or oral supplements. The goal is to nudge the body into a state of better performance or faster repair.

Popular peptides and their benefits

There are thousands of known peptides, but a few have risen to prominence in functional medicine for their therapeutic potential. We will briefly mention a few here, but will be going deeper into several options in future posts, so stay tuned!   

• BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound): derived from a protein found in the stomach, BPC-157 is widely used for its healing properties
• CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin: These peptides signal the pituitary gland to produce more of the body’s own growth hormone. Users often report improved muscle mass, faster fat loss, and better sleep quality.
• GLP-1/GIP Agonists: Perhaps the most famous peptide class currently, these mimic the hormones that affect how your body processes glucose and fat, as well as slowing how quickly food moves through your stomach. They regulate appetite and blood sugar, making them highly effective for weight loss and diabetes management.
• GHK-Cu: A copper peptide often used in skincare. It is known for stimulating collagen production, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Things to keep in mind

While the benefits can be profound, peptide therapy is not without risks or controversy. Because peptides influence hormones and cellular pathways, misuse can lead to side effects ranging from water retention and injection site irritation to more serious hormonal imbalances. This is why it is very important that you consult an expert on peptide therapy before considering 

Final thoughts

Peptide therapy represents a fascinating frontier in personalized medicine, offering a way to “hack” the body’s signaling mechanisms for better health. However, it is not a magic bullet. It works best when paired with a solid foundation of nutrition, sleep, and exercise. Most importantly, it should always be pursued under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional who can navigate the complexities of dosing, safety, and regulation.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new therapy.