The power of peptides on longevity and aging

Peptides have gained significant attention in longevity and aging for their potential to influence various aspects of health and aging at a cellular level. Here’s how peptides can play a role in longevity and the aging process:

• Repairing and regenerating cells, which keeps tissues healthy.
• Boosting collagen production, making skin look younger.
• Increasing human growth hormone levels can lead to more muscle and less fat.
• Strengthening the immune system, helping the body fight off diseases.
• Reducing inflammation is linked to many age-related conditions.
• Offering antioxidant effects, protecting cells from damage.
• Improving energy production by enhancing how our cells’ powerhouses, the mitochondria, function.

In this article, I’ll break down a complex topic to make it easy for everyone to grasp. Let’s go on a journey together where I’ll explain what peptides are, how they are classified, their uses, dosage, storage, and what to avoid.

So, what are peptides, and why is everyone raving about them?

Peptides are short strings (combinations) of amino acids, typically consisting of 2 to 50 amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Proteins are crucial for forming everything in our bodies, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones. There are thousands of combinations of amino acids, aka “peptides,” and each combination acts as a messenger, telling different body parts how to function or react to various conditions.

Peptides primarily tell the body what to do. They act as signals or messengers, guiding and regulating the body’s functions rather than doing the physical work themselves like a project manager and not a worker. Insulin is an example of a peptide, one of the earliest known peptides used by humans. It is a hormone that signals the body’s cells to take in glucose from the blood, helping to keep blood sugar levels in check. Instead of moving glucose, insulin works like a director, showing cells how to manage glucose uptake properly.

Peptides are involved in almost every function in our body, from how we heal to how we feel, including:

• Healing Wounds: They help fix cuts and injuries faster by telling the body to bring more healing cells to the wound area.
• Boosting Skin Health: Peptides can make your skin look younger and firmer by encouraging collagen production, like the skin’s support structure.
• Improving Muscle Growth: For those who work out, peptides can be a game-changer by supporting muscle growth and repair, making your gym efforts more effective.
• Fighting Off Germs: They play a role in your immune system, helping to identify and attack bacteria and viruses to keep you healthy.
• Enhancing Weight Loss: Some peptides have been shown to help burn fat, which can help lose weight or stay lean.
• Regulating Hormones: They can help balance hormones in the body, which affect everything from mood to metabolism.
• Improving Sleep and Mood: Certain peptides can help you sleep better and feel happier by influencing the brain’s production of neurotransmitters, which signal mood and sleep patterns.

CATEGORY OF PEPTIDE

Within groups like biohackers, bodybuilders, athletes, health enthusiasts, and the longevity community, peptides are often grouped by their functions and the specific goals they aim to fulfill. Here are the six main categories:

1. Performance-enhancing Peptides: Aimed at improving strength, endurance, and overall physical performance. By stimulating growth hormone release.
   1. Example: CJC-1295
   1. Use: This peptide is known for its ability to increase growth hormone secretion, enhancing muscle growth and overall physical performance.
2. Anti-aging Peptides: Focused on reducing the effects of aging, such as skin wrinkles and muscle loss. These peptides might stimulate collagen production and/or support cellular repair.
   1. Example: Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-3)
   1. Use: Often found in skincare products, Matrixyl is celebrated for stimulating collagen production, potentially reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.
3. Healing Peptides: Used to speed up recovery from injuries or surgery by promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
   1. Example: BPC-157 and TB500
   1. Use: BPC-157 and TB500 are reputed for their quick healing properties, especially in tendons, ligaments, and muscles, making them popular among athletes and biohackers for injury recovery.
4. Weight Loss Peptides: Intended to aid in fat loss or increase metabolism.
   1. Example: AOD-9604
   1. Use: This peptide is a fragment of human growth hormone that is believed to accelerate fat burning and weight loss without significantly impacting blood sugar levels.
5. Nootropic Peptides: Designed to enhance cognitive functions, including memory, focus, and creativity.
   1. Example: Semax
   1. Use: Semax, which originated from Russia, is often used for its cognitive-enhancing properties, including improving memory and concentration and providing neuroprotection.
6. Immunity-boosting Peptides: Aimed at strengthening the immune system.
   1. Example: Thymosin Alpha-1
   1. Use: Thymosin Alpha-1 is utilized to boost the immune system, particularly in fighting infections or chronic diseases, by enhancing the action of T-cells.

HOW TO TAKE THEM

Taking peptides can vary depending on the type of peptide, its intended use, and the recommendation of a healthcare professional. Here are the most common methods for taking peptides:

Injection:

• Subcutaneous (SC): Injection into the fat layer beneath the skin. This is a common method for peptides involved in bodybuilding, weight loss, or anti-aging due to its ease of self-administration and effective absorption.
• Intramuscular (IM): Injection directly into the muscle. This method is used for peptides that require fast absorption into the bloodstream.
• Intravenous (IV): Direct injection into a vein. This is less common for personal use and is typically administered in a clinical setting.

Oral:

• Some peptides are available in pill or capsule form. Oral administration is less common because the digestive system may break down peptides before they can be effectively absorbed into the bloodstream. However, certain peptides are formulated to withstand digestion or are used for their local effects in the gastrointestinal tract.

Nasal Sprays:

• Peptides like Semax are often administered as nasal sprays. This method is used for peptides that target cognitive functions. Usually, nasal administration offers a direct route to the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier, which is more effective than other methods.

Topical Creams or Gels:

• Topical application is common for peptides targeting skin issues, such as anti-aging or wound healing. These are applied directly to the skin, allowing the peptide to act locally.

Transdermal Patches:

• Like topical creams, transdermal patches release peptides slowly through the skin. This method is used for systemic effects or when you want continuous peptide delivery.

WHEN TO USE THEM, AND DOSAGE

The use and dosage of peptides depend on the specific peptide, its purpose, and individual factors like body weight, health condition, and desired outcomes. Here’s a simplified overview:

1. Clear Purpose: Choose a peptide based on what you want to achieve (e.g., muscle growth, fat loss, skin rejuvenation).
2. Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage, often provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional. Dosages can vary widely between different peptides.
3. Frequency: Some peptides are taken daily, while others might be used less frequently. The specific regimen depends on the peptide’s action and goals.
4. Method: Administer the peptide according to the recommended method (e.g., injection, oral, nasal spray).

Note: If your healthcare provider prescribes peptides, stick to their advice. If you’re obtaining peptides outside of medical supervision, make sure to thoroughly research dosage, storage, intended purpose of the peptide and side effects before use. Here’s a simple guide to some of the most common peptides and their dosages. Remember, this guide is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It’s meant to serve as a guideline for educational, research, and informational purposes ONLY!

Peptide Name	Purpose	Vial Size	Amount of BAC Water	Dosage	Duration
Ipamorelin	Weight Loss/ Performance-enhancing	10 mg	3ml	300mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
Tesamorelin	Weight Loss	5 mg	2ml	1mg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
AOD-9604	Weight Loss	5 mg	2ml	300mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
Semaglutide	Weight Loss	3 mg	2ml	250mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
Tirzepatide	Weight Loss	10 mg	1ml	2.5mg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
MOTS-C	Weight Loss	5 mg	2ml	2mg	2 weeks
Ipamorelin/CJC-1295 No DAC	Weight Loss/ Performance-enhancing	12mg	3ml	300mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
CJC-1295 No DAC	Longevity	10 mg	3ml	200mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
Epitalon	Longevity	100 mg	3ml	10mg	3 weeks straight, once per year
Thyamlin	Longevity	100 mg	3ml	5mg	Once every 6 months
Melanotan 1	Cognitive Enhancement	10 mg	3ml	250mcg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
Thymosin-Alpha 1	Immunity-boosting	10 mg	3ml	1.5mg	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
LL-37	Immunity-boosting	5 mg	2ml	125mcg	50 days straight, 4 weeks off
BPC-157	Healing	10 mg	3ml	250/500 mcg per day. Split twice per day, AM/PM	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off
TB-500	Healing	10 mg	3ml	2/5 mg per week. Split twice per week.	6/8 weeks on, 6/8 weeks off

Daily split: split the recommended dosage into equal portions per day or week.

• Note: As best practice, people:
• Always start with the minimum dosage recommended and increase or decrease as needed.
• Always get a baseline of blood work before and after you use peptides.
• Always contact your healthcare provider if you feel a negative side effect.

How or where do I get peptides?

Getting peptides from reliable and legal sources is crucial to ensure safety and effectiveness. Here are some general guidelines on where to find peptides:

• Prescription from a Healthcare Provider: The safest way to obtain peptides is through a prescription from a healthcare professional. This ensures that the peptides are pharmaceutical grade, intended for human use, and appropriate for your specific health needs.
• Compounding Pharmacies: Compounding pharmacies can formulate peptides based on a doctor’s prescription, allowing for customized dosages and formulations. Ensure the pharmacy is reputable and follows strict quality control standards.
• Licensed Online Pharmacies: Some online pharmacies are licensed to dispense peptides. Look for pharmacies with proper accreditation and reviews that confirm their legitimacy and quality of products.
• Research Chemical Suppliers: Peptides labeled as “for research purposes only” are available from research chemical suppliers. These are intended for laboratory research and not for human consumption. It’s important to be cautious, as the quality and purity of peptides from these sources can vary widely.
• Regulatory Considerations: The availability and legality of purchasing peptides can vary by country and region. Ensure you are familiar with the regulations in your area to avoid legal issues.
• Quality and Purity: When sourcing peptides, it’s vital to ensure they are of high quality and purity. Look for suppliers that provide third-party testing results to verify the product’s quality.
• Consult Healthcare Professionals: Before purchasing or using peptides, please consult a healthcare professional to discuss whether they are appropriate for you and how to use them safely.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

When buying peptides, you must be vigilant to ensure you’re getting a safe and effective product and information. Here are key factors to look out for:

1. Source and Quality: Purchase peptides from reputable suppliers or pharmacies. Look for providers that offer third-party testing results or Certificates of Analysis (CoA) to ensure purity and quality.
2. Legality: Confirm the legal status of the peptide in your country or region. Some peptides may be classified as research chemicals and not approved for human use. The FDA hasn’t approved some peptides, and using them could lead to disqualification if you’re a professional athlete..
3. Prescription Requirements: Be aware that specific peptides require a prescription. Buying or using these without medical supervision can be illegal and unsafe.
4. Safety and Side Effects: Research the peptide’s potential side effects and safety profile. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision and minimize risks.
5. Storage and Handling: Ensure you understand peptide storage and handling requirements, as improper storage can degrade their effectiveness.
6. Dosage Information: Be cautious of dosage recommendations. Always start with the lowest possible dose to see how your body reacts, and never exceed the recommended dosage without professional advice.
7. Scams and Mislabeling: Be wary of scams and mislabeled products. Some online sellers may not provide what they advertise, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
8. Misleading: Social media often provides misleading information about which peptides to buy. Influencers and advertisers might promote certain peptides without adequate evidence of their safety or effectiveness, driven by sponsorship deals or the desire for more followers. It’s important to critically evaluate these recommendations and consult with healthcare professionals before making decisions about peptide purchases. When considering health-related products, always prioritize reliable sources and scientific research over social media trends. Don’t take the word of an influencer without doing proper research.
9. Consult Healthcare Professionals: Before purchasing or using peptides, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

In my opinion:

Peptides offer several potential advantages over traditional testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for some individuals, primarily due to their specificity, fewer side effects, and broader range of benefits:

1. Specificity: Peptides can target specific pathways or functions in the body more precisely than TRT or HRT, which may lead to more tailored outcomes and fewer unintended effects.
2. Fewer Side Effects: Because of their targeted action, peptides may have a lower risk of side effects than TRT or HRT, which can influence a wide range of bodily functions and potentially lead to issues like hormonal imbalances or increased risk of certain diseases. You can be quick anytime.
3. Versatility: Peptides can be designed to address a wide variety of health concerns beyond just hormone levels, including promoting healing, boosting immunity, improving skin health, and enhancing muscle growth and fat loss.
4. Natural Processes: Some peptides work by stimulating the body’s natural hormone production rather than introducing external hormones, which can help maintain the body’s hormonal balance and reduce the risk of dependency.
5. Customization: Peptide therapy can often be more easily customized to the individual’s specific needs than TRT or HRT, allowing for a more personalized approach to treatment.
6. Cost: the cost may be substantially less than other therapies, such as, TRT, HRT, Steam cell therapy and PRP therapy.

So here you have it, Peptides 101. Enjoy!