Peptides are short chains of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) that can have a range of effects on the body. For example, peptides help orchestrate hormone activity, immune defense, tissue repair and growth, control of inflammation, and digestion. You can think of them as smaller and simpler versions of proteins, which are made of longer chains of amino acids. The body can make countless types of peptides by stringing together different amino acids. Each combination of amino acids produces unique — and very specific — functions.
What are peptides used for?
You’re likely familiar with some of the peptides your body makes, such as
- insulin, which the pancreas makes to regulate the body’s blood sugar
- endorphins, which are released by the central nervous system to block pain signals and relieve stress
- growth hormone–releasing hormone, which triggers the pituitary gland to make and release growth hormone.
Peptides are also used in some FDA-approved medications to treat diabetes, obesity, certain endocrine disorders, and other health conditions. Injectable insulin for blood sugar control is a peptide. So are GLP-1 medications that treat obesity and type 2 diabetes (among other diseases). Examples include semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro).
Peptide supplements and injections
A growing number of people are also using peptide injections and supplements to enhance their health and fitness.
If you’ve seen peptides being plugged on social media or by influencers like Joe Rogan, the hype has mostly zeroed in on injectable peptides with names like BPC-157, GHK-Cu, and TB-500.
Potential benefits of peptides
Different peptides have different functions in the body. So, it’s impossible to quantify the benefits of peptides as a group. But individually, we carry peptides that:
- boost athletic performance
- enhance muscle growth
- boost fat loss
- enhance sexual function
- support faster healing
- reduce inflammation
- support anti-aging.
- improve skin and hair
- improved mood
Many of the injectable peptides currently marketed online and by wellness clinics are not regulated or approved by the FDA. Instead, they’re experimental compounds that are typically sold through “gray market” online storefronts and often labeled “for research purposes only.”
So why do we carry them at Hydration Happens? Because they seem to be working for people. We ask you to do your own research and sign a consent form if you decide peptides are for you. We use a physician-approved pharmacy, and our labels do not read “research only.”
Feel free to come in for a consultation and see the many peptides we carry at Hydration Happens.
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