Peptide therapy explained+ natural ways to support your body's production!
What are peptides?
Simply put, peptides are small chains of amino acids that naturally support and rebuild the body’s cellular functions. Peptides act as signaling molecules that help regulate various biological processes, including hormone production, immune function, tissue repair, and metabolism. Because peptides can be designed to target specific receptors in the body, peptide therapy offers a highly personalized and targeted approach to health optimization and when used appropriately can have minimal (to no ) side affects.
The benefits of peptide therapy are wide-ranging. It can promote lean muscle mass and fat loss, enhance skin health by stimulating collagen production, accelerate wound healing, and reduce inflammation. Peptides also support cardiovascular health, improve bone density, regulate blood pressure, and boost immune function. For those experiencing symptoms like fatigue, low stamina, anxiety, or hormone imbalances, peptide therapy may help restore vitality and improve overall quality of life. Below are some of the most common and accessible peptide classes along with some natural ways to boost your own production of peptides!
What is BPC 157 ?
BPC 157, or Body Protection Compound 157, is a synthetic peptide composed of 15 amino acids originally derived from a protein found in human gastric juice. It has gained significant attention in the fields of regenerative medicine and sports recovery due to its remarkable healing properties. Research—primarily in animal studies—suggests that BPC 157 can accelerate tissue repair, promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance blood flow to injured areas, making it beneficial for conditions such as muscle, tendon, ligament injuries, and joint pain. It is also noted for its positive effects on gut health, helping to heal gastric ulcers and support the intestinal lining, which may be useful for individuals with digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome or leaky gut. BPC 157 works by stimulating the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), boosting collagen production, and modulating inflammatory pathways, all of which contribute to faster and more effective recovery. While anecdotal reports and early research are promising, robust human clinical trials are still limited, so its use should be supervised by a medical professional
Please notes that BPC-157 is one of the ONLY peptide you can take orally and still receive benefits while ALL other peptides are not absorbed efficiently through the gut and need to be administered subcutaneously via injection.
GHK-Cu Peptide for treating fine lines & grey hair
GHK-Cu (glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine copper) is a naturally occurring copper peptide found in human plasma, saliva, and urine, renowned for its powerful regenerative and protective properties. Widely used in skin and hair care products, GHK-Cu plays a crucial role in stimulating collagen production, enhancing wound healing, and improving skin firmness, elasticity, and clarity. It helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, while also repairing the skin barrier and protecting cells from UV radiation and oxidative damage. Beyond cosmetic benefits, GHK-Cu has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, promotes blood vessel growth, and supports hair growth and thickness by enlarging hair follicles. Its concentration in the body declines with age, which may contribute to visible signs of aging and slower tissue repair. Overall, GHK-Cu is valued for its ability to signal tissue remodeling, accelerate healing, and maintain youthful, healthy skin and hair.
Why are GLP-1 agonists so trendy ?
Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Tirzapatide (active ingredient of Mounjaro or Zepbound) are all examples of GLP-1 peptides. Prescription GLP-1 agonist were actually first developed to treat type 2 diabetes and have been on the market for almost 20 years. Weight loss results are promising as it can help to reverse insulin resistance, reduce inflammation, curb hunger and reduce that “food noise” so many of us are familiar with. Unfortunately this class of peptides is not without side affects which are especially common with the commercially available dosages which are often too high for the individual. Because this drug will delay gastric emptying, many individuals will complain of nausea, vomiting, acid reflux and even more serious symptoms of this could be gastroparesis. To offset this I do recommend smaller meals throughout the day rather than 1 or 2 large meals and you can also try using a digestive enzyme with meals, such as the one below.
More GLP-1 agonists precautions
Individuals with known thyroid and or gallbladder disorders should take severe caution when starting GLP-1 therapy. Monitoring liver enzymes and thyroid hormones is helpful. I recommend working with your physician on starting (and staying) on a “micro” or reduced dosage via use of a compounding pharmacy. Another down side to GLP-1 agonist is depending on the peptide, individuals are at a very high risk for muscle loss which as we all know is what makes our metabolism. If muscle is lost an individual is at an even high risk of gaining all the weight back (an then some).
Although I am a believer in the use of GLP-1 peptides at the right dosage and for the right duration of time /frequency, they are not a root cause approach, and I always guide my clients on making root cause changes simultaneously or even before starting peptide therapy. There are many ways to naturally boost your body’s peptide production (see more below)
How can you NATURALLY support the body to produce peptides?
Naturally supporting peptide production in the body starts with a diet rich in high-quality proteins, since amino acids from foods like eggs, fish, lean meats, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds provide the essential building blocks for peptide synthesis. Including collagen-rich foods such as bone broth and gelatin can directly supply beneficial peptides for skin and joint health, while vitamin C-rich fruits and leafy greens help boost collagen production, further supporting overall peptide health. Regular exercise, especially strength training and high-intensity interval training, stimulates growth hormone release, which in turn enhances peptide production. Prioritizing quality sleep and managing stress are also key lifestyle factors, as both play important roles in regulating the body’s natural peptide synthesis and repair processes. By combining a balanced, protein-rich diet with healthy lifestyle habits, you can effectively support your body’s natural production of peptides. See more targeted practices below!
· Ketones via a ketogenic diet and or fasting
· Fasting( 16-36 hours) Please note especially with thyroid disorder I do not recommend fasting daily. Women do best when fasting through dinner as opposed to through breakfast.
· Akkermansia Probiotic, Pomegranate, Green Tea, blueberries to support Akkermansia bacteria which supports GLP-1 pathway
· Strength training and endurance exercises
· Berberine or dihydroberberine to support GLP-1 pathway