The hands of time are leaving their signs all over our faces, bodies and minds. Aging. Weight gain. Health problems. Memory loss. These are just a few of the long list of frustrating issues we face with no hope or help for relief. Yet time has also proven to be our friend, as years of medical research have led to a big advance in improving our health and quality of life!
What are peptides:
Peptides are naturally occurring biological molecules found in all cells. Insulin was the first commercially available peptide. Peptides are molecules that consist of between 2-50 amino acids. Our body uses peptides as signaling molecules to stimulate various chemical pathways in our body. They are tiny protein messengers that tell our cells to do their jobs more efficiently. Peptides naturally appear in every cell and tissue throughout our bodies. While they may be incredibly small, they can really make a big difference in how you look, feel and live.
Peptides generally fall into these categories:
- Peptides for anti-aging (telomere health), human growth hormone (HGH) production & overall wellness
- Peptides for cognitive function, mood support & stress relief
- Peptides for joint & tendon repair/regeneration
- Peptides for weight loss & fat burning
- Peptides for libido & sexual function
- Peptides for immunity support
- Peptides for skin & hair
From immunity and weight loss to anti-aging, athletic performance and cognitive function, peptides can help improve your health and quality of life in the following ways:
- strengthen the immune system
- burn fat
- lose weight
- build muscle
- increase energy
- enhance cognitive function
- improve skin
- stimulate hair growth
- reduce inflammation
- sharpen memory
- ease sleep
- recover from injury
- improve athletic performance
- heighten libido
Peptides have a wide range of healing abilities based on their specific amino acids. They act as mighty messengers, sending signals to cells and tissues to perform a full spectrum of essential biological functions. Since different peptides affect different cells and functions, they can be specially combined and customized to improve your health and well-being.
This is known as peptide therapy and it’s well worth getting to understand so you can look and feel your very best. Human growth hormone (HGH) is vital for many systems throughout your body. Unfortunately, HGH levels begin to decline after age 30, and only go down from there. This decrease causes your energy, youthful beauty, and fitness levels to plummet along with it, which makes you look and feel your age. Fortunately, you can replenish your body’s youthful levels of human growth hormones with a form of peptides known as secretagogues.
***Given there are multiple peptides with overlapping functions – discuss with your Living Wellness Physician which peptides specifically would be best for your situation, condition, and goals. ***
How are Peptides administered?
Some peptides are applied as a cream, and some are inhaled as a nasal spray but most peptides are taken by injecting them under the skin, next to the abdomen, with a small insulin needle.
How quickly do peptides work?
This is primarily determined by the specific peptide being given and the dosing. Some peptides can work within 45 minutes while others require a 3-month program. When you start peptide therapy, you may notice results within a matter of weeks. That said, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months before you begin to notice the full benefits of your treatments.
How long do I need to be on Peptides?
The length you are on peptides is primarily determined by the goal of your treatment and can vary based on your condition. Some patients stay on peptides for a 2-week period, while others may stay on them for longer than 3 months.
What are the risks and potential side effects of peptide therapy?
Risks with peptide therapy are significantly smaller when compared to the risks and side effects of traditional medications.
The reason for this is that Peptides have short half-lives and predictable metabolisms. Compared to traditional medications that have drug-drug Interactions, metabolism issues, and can lack specificity which leads to side effects, etc. Because peptides are signaling molecules that are designed to target very specific pathways, they do not have any major side effects. Mild side effects can include nausea, flushing, and a slight discomfort at the injection site for a few minutes.
What happens when I stop taking Peptides?
Stopping peptide therapy is completely safe since peptides are signaling molecules that stimulate specific chemical pathways. If the treatment goal has been accomplished, such as in tissue repair, then you will not need to be on peptide therapy after that. If the treatment goal was a longer-term goal such as weight loss, then you will not regain the weight, assuming you continue following the rest of the treatment plan. Peptides are meant to be used to boost your body’s signaling and help you achieve the goal quickly.
Do I need to change my normal routine in any way?
There isn’t any need to alter your daily routine when proceeding with peptide therapy. Yet you may choose to enhance their many benefits by maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, getting plenty of sleep, and reducing stress. Your Living Wellness Physician will work with you to help you make these lifestyle changes and support your healthy goals.
How can I get started with peptide therapy?
With peptide therapy, you can reverse signs of aging, keep extra weight off, manage chronic health conditions, and much more. If you think that peptide therapy could be a good option for you, schedule an appointment with your Living Wellness Physician. Since it can take time for the peptides to work, they are offered as a monthly membership which includes the monthly supply of the peptides as well as a short visit with your Living Wellness Physician.
Where is research being conducted on peptides?
- Despite not utilizing peptides clinically, the United States leads the world in the research of peptides.
- Many other countries such as Australia, Japan, and Croatia contribute to the medical research of peptides and have been successfully using peptide therapy to treat various conditions for years.