Peptides, smaller versions of proteins, have garnered attention for their potential health benefits, including pro-aging support, anti-inflammatory properties, and muscle-building capabilities. While research is ongoing to fully understand their risks and benefits, some studies suggest that peptides could play a beneficial role in slowing down the aging process, reducing inflammation, and combating microbes. This article explores the potential of peptides for weight loss, their mechanisms of action, and the possible side effects associated with their use.
What are Peptides?
Peptides are short strings of amino acids, typically ranging from 2 to 50 amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, but peptides contain fewer amino acids than proteins. Peptides may be easier for the body to absorb than proteins because they are smaller and more broken down, allowing them to penetrate the skin and intestines more quickly and enter the bloodstream more efficiently.
Peptides are naturally present in foods, and many supplements containing peptides derived from food or synthesized are available. Some popular peptide supplements include collagen peptides for anti-aging and skin health, and creatine peptide supplements for building muscle and enhancing athletic performance.
The peptides in supplements may come from plant or animal sources of protein, including eggs, milk, meat, fish and shellfish, beans and lentils, soy, oats, flaxseed, hemp seeds, and wheat. Scientists are particularly interested in bioactive peptides, which have a beneficial effect on the body and may positively impact human health. The effects of bioactive peptides depend on their amino acid sequence, with different sequences exhibiting different properties.
How Peptides May Aid Weight Loss
Peptides can work for weight loss by slowing the movement of food through the gut and reducing cravings. Several peptides can contribute to weight loss, with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists being among the most common. These medications stimulate peptide production in the body, slowing stomach emptying. Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists are also involved in digestion, hunger, and satiety, making them attractive candidates for weight management.
Read also: Comprehensive guide to peptides for women's weight loss
Common Peptides for Weight Loss
- Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy): A GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide is available as Ozempic (primarily for type 2 diabetes) and Wegovy (specifically for obesity). Both are injectable medications approved by the FDA.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound): This medication is a GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, targeting an additional receptor in the body (GIP). It is available as Mounjaro (for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound (for weight loss).
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): A GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for weight loss, liraglutide has been shown to help some individuals lose more than 10% of their body weight.
It is important to note that some peptides sold as supplements are not as well-studied or regulated. Therefore, thorough research and consultation with a healthcare professional are crucial before considering any non-FDA-approved options.
Potential Benefits of Peptides
Beyond weight loss, peptides are often used to achieve various other effects:
- Slowing Down the Aging Process: Collagen peptides, derived from broken-down collagen proteins, are easily absorbed by the body and may improve skin health and slow the aging process. Reviews and meta-analyses suggest that collagen supplements can reduce or delay skin aging.
- Improving Wound Healing: As a vital component of healthy skin, collagen peptides may facilitate faster wound healing. Research highlights the potential of collagen to promote wound healing, and ongoing studies are investigating antimicrobial peptides as alternatives to antibiotics.
- Preventing Age-Related Bone Loss: Some research suggests that collagen peptide intake can help increase bone mass, benefiting individuals with conditions like osteoporosis. Studies have shown that collagen peptide supplementation can increase bone mineral density and improve bone markers in postmenopausal individuals with reduced bone mineral density.
- Building Strength and Muscle Mass: Peptide supplements, combined with resistance exercise training, may effectively increase muscle strength. Growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are a group of peptides that could help treat conditions involving muscle wasting by stimulating the production and release of human growth hormone.
Potential Side Effects of Using Peptides for Weight Loss
While peptide supplements are generally considered safe for healthy individuals due to their similarity to peptides found in everyday foods, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before taking any supplements.
Common Side Effects
Every peptide medication for weight loss is different, but some common side effects can occur, primarily involving the gastrointestinal tract. These may include:
- Nausea
- Cramping
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
These side effects tend to be limited and resolve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help minimize these effects.
Read also: Keto Collagen Peptides Explained
Other Potential Side Effects
- Low blood sugar
- Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or pain)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Rare but Serious Side Effects
In rare cases, some individuals may experience:
- Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Changes in vision
Risks of Unapproved Peptides
The pursuit of health and performance enhancements has led to the use of unapproved peptides, which pose significant risks. These substances have not been proven safe or effective through rigorous clinical trials. Some commonly used unapproved peptides and their potential risks include:
- BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound-157): While purported to accelerate wound healing and reduce inflammation, it carries risks of unknown long-term effects, immune system reactions, gastrointestinal disturbances, and contamination.
- CJC-1295: Marketed for increased muscle mass and fat loss, it can lead to hormonal imbalances, water retention, joint pain, and increased cancer risk.
- Ipamorelin: Promoted for muscle growth and improved recovery, it may cause metabolic disruption, cardiovascular issues, fatigue, and injection site reactions.
- GHRP-6 and GHRP-2: Used for muscle gain and fat loss, they can cause extreme hunger, elevated cortisol and prolactin levels, joint pain, and hormonal side effects.
- Thymosin Alpha-1: Advertised for enhanced immune function, it may lead to immune overstimulation, allergic reactions, and unknown cancer risks.
- Melanotan II: Used for skin tanning without UV exposure, it increases the risk of melanoma, moles and skin pigmentation changes, nausea, and blood pressure fluctuations.
- Selank: Marketed for anxiety reduction and improved memory, it carries risks of neurological effects, dependence, and interactions with medications.
- MOTS-c: Promoted for improved insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism, it may cause metabolic dysregulation, cardiac stress, and unanticipated cellular effects.
General risks of using unapproved peptides include contamination and purity issues, legal consequences, athletic bans, and ethical concerns.
Important Considerations
- Prescription Requirement: Peptides approved for weight loss require a prescription, and specific criteria determine eligibility for each drug.
- FDA Regulation: The FDA does not regulate supplements in the same way as medications, so caution is advised when taking any supplements.
- Consultation with Healthcare Provider: It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any peptide supplements, especially for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or living with a medical condition.
- Dosage and Timing: The timing and dose of peptide supplements vary depending on the type and brand. Always follow package instructions and never exceed the recommended serving size.
- Discontinue Use if Adverse Reactions Occur: If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use and consult a doctor.
- Comprehensive Approach: Peptide therapy should be combined with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits for sustainable weight loss.
- Long-Term Monitoring: Peptides that influence hormone levels require long-term monitoring.
- Maintenance Plan: Stopping peptide therapy without a maintenance plan can lead to rebound weight gain.
- Pharmaceutical-Grade Products: Ensure that peptides are pharmaceutical-grade and sourced from reputable compounding pharmacies.
GLP-1 Medications and Potential Long-Term Effects
GLP-1 drugs, initially developed for diabetes management, have gained popularity for their weight loss effects. However, they also have potential side effects.
GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 agonists trigger the release of insulin from the pancreas and act in the brain to reduce hunger and delay stomach emptying. This can lead to weight loss, but also potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in rare cases, paralysis of the stomach.
Read also: Weight Loss with Semaglutide Peptides
Decreased Risk of Dementia and Addiction
Studies suggest that GLP-1 medications may be associated with increased cognitive and behavioral health, reducing the risk of seizures and addiction to substances.
Increased Risk of Kidney, Pancreas, and Gastrointestinal Problems
GLP-1RA drugs can negatively affect the pancreas and kidneys, potentially leading to pancreatitis and kidney dysfunction.
Alternatives to Peptide Therapy
If you're struggling with injuries, performance issues, or health concerns, there are evidence-based and FDA-approved treatments available:
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Stimulates healing using your body's own platelets.
- Physical Therapy: Customized programs to rebuild strength and function safely.
- Surgical Interventions: When necessary, surgery can provide definitive solutions.