I am sure you have heard of “peptides” as a recent buzzword. But what is all the hype about? Let’s start with the basics…Peptides are short chains (think links) made of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. Since they are smaller than proteins, they can be absorbed more easily. They are needed to perform tasks such as collagen production, muscle repair, cellular communication, and reducing inflammation. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326701
Found naturally in foods, including animal- and plant-based proteins, they are commonly found in skincare products, such as lotions and serums that aim to boost collagen and elastin, as well as in health supplements that are used for skin health and muscle mass.
What are the potential benefits?
For anti-aging – The protein collagen is a key building block of the skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and other connective tissues. As we age, natural collagen production decreases and breakdown increases, contributing to visible skin changes (like wrinkles and sagging) as well as weaker joints and connective tissues. Research suggests that oral collagen supplements may help support skin hydration and elasticity, and may also reduce joint pain and improve function in people with osteoarthritis. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
For skin – Peptides are present in your skin and are needed to help fight bacteria, heal wounds, and build a strong skin barrier. People with too few peptides in their skin may be more prone to psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, or acne. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
For muscle growth and weight loss – Certain peptide supplements may help boost muscle growth or muscle repair, however some supplements work by stimulating growth hormone (GH) and may be illegal or unsafe. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
Others have been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar (in Type 2DM) and in weight loss. GLP-1 is one type of peptide.
For hair growth – Similarly to how peptides help with collagen production in the skin, some peptides may help with hair growth. Serums, pills, or powders are options for peptide supplements for hair growth. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
For bone loss – Studies have found that collagen peptide supplements also may help to improve bone mineral density, and therefore are used to treat osteoporosis. https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-are-peptides
For testosterone – Some peptides may help increase testosterone levels by helping your body make certain hormones that are needed to make testosterone (gonadotropin-releasing hormone, gonadotropin luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone).
What’s the difference between collagen vs. collagen peptides?
Collagen = large, complex proteins that are found in the skin, bones, and tendons.
Collagen peptides = broken up, or hydrolyzed pieces of collagen that are highly soluble and bioavailable, meaning they are absorbed rapidly in the gastrointestinal tract. Because the body cannot absorb whole collagen, supplements typically contain collagen peptides. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen
What does it mean when a product is labelled “collagen peptides”?
When a product is labelled collagen peptides, it means the collagen has already been processed (hydrolyzed) into smaller fragments. This makes it easier for digestion and absorption compared to regular collagen.
The bottom line
Research into topical or injectable peptides is very young! While some studies show promise, more conclusive studies conducted with large groups are still needed. Some of the preliminary research is done in animals or in small groups of people. Many claims on social media are exaggerated. While this is a promising and exciting area of research, many of the peptides on the market may show modest effect. Always look at what research has been done on a specific product before trusting claims, influencers, and social media.
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