Have you seen the beads of bracelets? How they are attached to form a bracelet, similarly molecules of amino acids form a chain together to make the compound Peptides. It is a smaller form of protein that is produced by different cells in your body. It can be the neural cells or the immune system cells. Moreover, this compound can also be artificially made and often used in cosmetics and skin care products due to its benefits, such as reducing inflammation, wrinkles, and toning skin.
However, sometimes there can be some side effects of Peptide, which makes it important for you to learn more about it. So, through this article, let us explore the uses and possible side effects of Peptides and how to use them.
Various Purposes Of Peptides
Peptides are used for various purposes, such as in supplemental food, cosmetics, drugs, and skincare products. In supplement food, peptides are used because they are easier to digest and break down than intact proteins.
Besides, as already mentioned, it is a smaller form of protein, so it can be easily absorbed to release energy. Therefore, this is the reason supplement foods are often based on collagen peptides. Furthermore, peptides have less chance of allergic reaction than whole proteins. They are also used in formulas for infant foods.
Moreover, coming drugs, Peptides, which are used in medication drugs, are known as Therapeutic peptides. It is a special type of Peptide that is only used pharmaceutical field. Besides, there are currently 80 approved peptide drugs globally. Insulin is an example of a peptide drug with composition of 51 amino acids.
Apart from drug and supplement foods, collagen peptides have great use in skin care products as collagen is a significant component that provides elasticity, structure, and strength to your skin. Besides, topical skin care products with peptides also promote skin health benefits and reduce the signs of aging, such as wrinkles.
How To Use Peptides?
Peptides have various health benefits when used in the right way. This compound used in supplemental food is easy to break and absorb, as in the case of cosmetics and skin care products. It can help reduce signs of aging, dryness, and many more. So, it is important you know how to use it if you truly want to take advantage of its benefits.
When taking supplements-based peptides, make sure that you follow the right quantity and time to consume them. Besides, always read the instructions and information on the packaging of such supplements to make sure that you are aware of the product.
Similarly, in the case of peptide-based drugs and topical creams, always read the instructions on how to use them printed on the packing. Besides, be sure to buy such medicines from trusted medical shops and pharmacists. Also, do not exceed the recommended dosage of the medicine to use the peptides. Moreover, when buying medicines, it is better if you consult your doctor first and then only use any drug.
Furthermore, when it comes to skincare products or cosmetics. Make sure that you are aware of your skin type before using any product on your skin. Moreover, peptides can be used combined with other skin care products, such as Vitamin C serums and moisturizers, to increase the benefit.
Potential Benefits Of Peptides
1. Is Considered To Slow Down The Age Process
Collagen is a protein that is found in nails, hairs, and skin thus, collagen peptides are broken proteins that can easily be absorbed by the body. Taking collagen peptides can help you improve your skin and slow the aging process. Moreover, dietary food supplements that consist of peptides have been found to treat skin wrinkles and improve hydration and elasticity of the skin.
2. Can Improve Brain Function And Mental Health
Opioid peptides are a type of peptide that is often found in certain foods and in your body that work for some receptors in your brain. Besides, these types of peptides can have positive effects on the nervous system and may help in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, studies have found that peptides found in soy and dairy products are also beneficial for brain functions and mental health.
3. Help Your Build Muscle And Strength
Collagen-based supplements have been found to promote muscle mass and strength by reducing exercise-induced muscle damage. Besides, it can also improve joint health by strengthening bones and ligaments. In addition, creatine powder is often used by fitness freaks to improve muscle mass and strength.
4. Speed Up Wound Healing
Collagen peptides may speed up wound healing as collagen is an important component present in our skin. Moreover, bioactive peptides can also act as antioxidants and reduce inflammation, which can speed up the wound healing process.
Peptides For Muscle Growth
Peptides for muscle growth are a popular topic in the fitness and bodybuilding community. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play a crucial role in various biological functions, including muscle growth and repair. They work by stimulating the release of growth hormone, promoting muscle protein synthesis.
Some of the best peptides for muscle growth include:
1. Growth Hormone hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs): GHRPs like Ipamorelin and GHRP-6 stimulate the release of growth hormone, leading to increased muscle mass and strength.
2. Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1): IGF-1 is a peptide that promotes muscle growth and repair. It works by increasing protein synthesis and inhibiting protein breakdown.
3. BPC-157: BPC-157 is a peptide shown to enhance muscle healing and recovery. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce muscle soreness and improve overall performance.
4. TB-500: TB-500 is a peptide that promotes the growth and repair of muscle tissue. It has been shown to increase muscle mass and improve muscle strength.
When using peptides for muscle growth, following proper dosage and administration guidelines is important. It’s also recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified fitness expert before starting any peptide therapy.
Side Effects Of Peptides: You Must Know
It is unlikely that peptide products and supplements can cause any side effects to any healthy individual, as they are similar to peptides present in our daily food. However, with topical creams and skin care products that have peptides. There is a minor chance of side effects such as rashes, irritation, redness, sensitivity, and many more.
Moreover, collagen peptides that are often in supplemental foods might not have any serious side effects. but some people may suffer from nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. Therefore, when taking peptides, make sure to buy a branded product from a reputable medical shop. Besides, if you find any adverse side effects, it is better to consult your doctor without any delay.
Wrapping Up
Peptides can be a significant component that can be very beneficial for your health in various ways. Besides, it is used in various fields making it a useful component for us. Moreover, peptides are present in good fiber-rich foods, so it is important that you need to take supplements or medicines for them. However, there can be some side effects of peptides. So it is better to use them wisely, and in case of any effects, it is better to consult a doctor.
References
- Henninot A, Collins JC, Nuss JM. The current state of peptide drug discovery: back to the future? J. Med Chem. 2018;61:1382–1414. [PubMed]
- de Castro N, et al. Incidence and risk factors for liver enzymes elevations in highly treatment-experienced patients switching from enfuvirtide to raltegravir: a sub-study of the ANRS-138 EASIER trial. AIDS Res Ther. 2016;13:17. [PMC free article]
