The Power of Peptides: How They Work, Benefits, and What You Need to Know

written by Dr. Josh Axe

Published on

Imagine having the ability to speed up recovery, optimize metabolism, enhance performance, and even slow down aging—naturally. 

What if there was a way to signal your body to repair tissues, burn fat, and regenerate skin cells without artificial hormones or invasive treatments? 

Peptide therapy, one of the most exciting breakthroughs in modern health science, checks all of these boxes and more. From elite athletes to biohackers and even Hollywood A-listers, peptides are being used to boost muscle growth, improve cognitive function, and rejuvenate the skin.

These powerful compounds work by activating the body's natural healing and hormonal processes, making them beneficial for longevity, recovery, and overall well-being.

In this article, we'll break down what peptides are, how they work, and why they’re quickly becoming the go-to tool for optimizing health. Whether you’re looking to heal injuries, improve energy, or support graceful aging, peptides might just be the missing link in your wellness routine.

What Are Peptides?

Peptides are small chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, that play a crucial role in cell signaling and biological function. They help regulate processes like hormone production, tissue repair, metabolism, and immune responses.

Many well-known peptides are already used in medicine and wellness. For example, Ozempic (semaglutide) is a peptide used for weight loss and diabetes management (although its benefits come with major risks), while BPC-157 and TB-500 are known for tissue healing and injury recovery.  Collagen and creatine are also peptides, widely used for skin health, joint support, and muscle recovery.

Peptides work by stimulating the body’s natural processes, rather than simply replacing hormones or nutrients. As the International Journal of Molecular Sciences explains, peptides help activate biological pathways, making them an effective tool for healing, performance enhancement, and anti-aging.

Think of proteins as long, complex instruction manuals, while peptides are like short, precise post-it notes that direct the body to repair, grow, and function optimally. For example:

  • CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin help stimulate growth hormone release to support muscle growth and fat metabolism.
  • Thymosin Alpha-1 helps modulate immune function, helping fight infections and autoimmune conditions.
  • BPC-157 promotes healing in muscles, tendons, and the digestive system.

How Do Peptides Work?

Peptides function as biological keys, unlocking specific responses in the body. Similar to how a key fits into a lock to open a door, peptides bind to cell receptors to trigger effects such as collagen production, fat burning, and enhanced muscle recovery.

Wisconsin Institute of Functional Medicine describes peptides as “precision medicine”, allowing for targeted treatments that mimic or influence natural biological processes. This makes them a more natural and effective alternative to synthetic hormone therapies.

As Dr. Andrew Huberman, neuroscientist and professor, explains, “peptides are useful for improving tissue rejuvenation and repair, promoting longevity, improving muscle growth and fat loss, and boosting mood, vitality, and libido.”

What Are Conditions Peptides Can Help Address?

Peptides have gained significant traction in regenerative medicine. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, over 100 peptide-based drugs are currently FDA-approved to treat conditions like diabetes, metabolic disorders, cancer, obesity, and digestive diseases.

Additionally, another 170 peptides are in active clinical development, according to the journal Nature, while Drug Discovery Today estimates the number of therapeutic peptides in progress is closer to 500.

Depending on the specific type and protocol, peptides can help treat:

  • Disc and low back pain: supports spinal healing and reduces inflammation.
  • Joint injuries and ligament damage: accelerates tissue repair and recovery.
  • Muscle recovery and performance: enhances muscle growth, endurance, and recovery.
  • Gut health (leaky gut, IBS, IBD): promotes intestinal healing and reduces inflammation.
  • Autoimmune disorders: regulates immune function and reduces flare-ups.
  • Skin conditions (wrinkles, scars, acne): boosts collagen production and skin regeneration.
  • Metabolic disorders and weight loss: improves insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism.
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic fatigue: supports energy production and cellular repair.
  • Thyroid dysfunction and hormone imbalance: helps regulate hormone levels naturally.
  • Neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline: supports brain health and neuroprotection.
  • Immune system support: boosts immune response and reduces infection risk.

Top 8 Benefits of Peptides

Peptides are widely recognized for their benefits in anti-aging, healing, performance, and metabolic health. Research published in Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry supports these benefits:

1. Anti-Aging & Longevity

2. Healing Injuries & Tissue Repair

3. Metabolism & Weight Management

4. Mitochondrial Support & Energy Production

  • MOTS-c helps enhance mitochondrial function, combating fatigue.
  • SS-31 can help protect mitochondria from oxidative stress.

5. Performance & Athletic Recovery

6. Gut Health & Digestive Repair

  • BPC-157 is helpful for healing leaky gut and IBS.
  • KPV has strong anti-inflammatory effects.

7. Skin Rejuvenation

  • GHK-Cu (Copper Peptides) helps boost collagen and elastin production.
  • Epitalon promotes cellular regeneration.

8. Thyroid & Hormone Balance

Athletes, Celebrities & RFK Jr. on Peptides

Many athletes, biohackers, and wellness experts use peptides for performance and recovery. For example:

  • Sylvester Stallone has openly used HGH peptides for vitality.
  • Hugh Jackman reportedly used peptides for muscle recovery as Wolverine.
  • Jennifer Aniston relies on collagen peptides and peptide injections for skin health.
  • Joe Rogan has discussed using BPC-157 for injury healing.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also advocated for regenerative medicine, including peptides. In a social media post, he criticized the FDA for restricting peptides, stem cells, and other alternative therapies (BBC).

Are There Food Sources of Peptides? Yes…

Peptides can be found naturally in various foods and supplements, making them easy to incorporate into a daily wellness routine. Some of the best natural sources include:

  • Organ meats: Rich in bioavailable peptides that support cellular function.
  • Collagen peptides: Found in bone broth and hydrolyzed collagen supplements, great for skin, joints, and gut health.
  • Flaxseeds & soy: Provide peptides that aid in hormone balance and estrogen production.
  • Protein-rich foods: Meat, fish, eggs, and dairy contain naturally occurring peptides that support muscle and metabolic function.

How to Find and Use Peptides Supplements/Injections

Peptides can be sourced through functional medicine clinics, compounding pharmacies, and research supply companies. Some peptides, like collagen and creatine, are available as over-the-counter supplements, while others require a prescription or medical supervision.

For best results:

  • Work with a healthcare professional to determine appropriate peptides and dosages.
  • Choose high-quality sources from reputable suppliers.
  • Follow proper administration guidelines (oral, sublingual, or injectable).
  • Monitor for any side effects and adjust as needed.

Peptides vs. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Unlike HRT, which replaces hormones, peptides stimulate the body to produce its own hormones. This means:

  • Peptides work naturally, while HRT can suppress natural hormone production.
  • Peptides have fewer side effects compared to traditional hormone therapy.
  • Peptides promote balance, whereas HRT may cause hormone imbalances.

Overall, peptides provide a more sustainable, long-term approach to hormone balance. Instead of overriding the body's natural systems, peptides optimize and regulate them, reducing the likelihood of side effects and dependency.

For example, instead of taking synthetic estrogen during menopause, peptides found in soy and flaxseeds can help the body naturally increase estrogen production, reducing hot flashes and supporting bone density without the risks associated with HRT.

Similarly, peptides like CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin can stimulate growth hormone production, leading to benefits in muscle recovery, fat metabolism, and anti-aging—without the potential side effects of synthetic growth hormone administration.

Myths & Truths About Peptides

  • Myth: Peptides are illegal 
  • Truth: Many peptides (more than 200) are either available legally as research compounds and in clinical trials, but they are not FDA-approved for medical treatment or readily available in stores.  
  • Myth: Peptides are steroids
  • Truth: Peptides are different than steroids and artificial hormones (or HRT). Peptides work by enhancing natural biological processes, not artificially increasing hormones like anabolic steroids. Steroids are a class of lipophilic organic compounds. Their mechanisms and effects differ significantly. 
  • Myth: Peptide therapy is a new, untested treatment.
  • Truth: Peptides have been utilized in medical treatments for over a century. For instance, insulin, a peptide hormone, was first used to treat diabetes in 1921. 
  • Myth: Peptide therapy is only for anti-aging purposes.
  • Truth: While peptides can aid in reducing signs of aging, they also play roles in metabolism, tissue repair, immune function, and more. People of various ages and health conditions may benefit from peptides.

What Are The Potential Side Effects & Safety Considerations For Peptides?

While peptides are generally considered safe when used properly, some people may experience mild side effects, such as:

  • Injection site reactions: Redness, swelling, or irritation at the site of administration.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Excessive use of growth hormone-releasing peptides may disrupt hormone levels.
  • Digestive issues: Some oral peptides may cause nausea or stomach discomfort.
  • Allergic reactions: In rare cases, individuals may develop mild allergic responses.

Safer peptides include BPC-157 and TB-500, while hormone-stimulating peptides (like CJC-1295) require medical supervision and may be riskier, especially if used without help from a professional.

It’s best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective peptide use.

Peptides offer a cutting-edge way to heal, enhance performance, and slow aging. Whether for recovery, hormone balance, or metabolic health, they provide a targeted, natural approach to optimizing health. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting peptide therapy.

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Dr. Josh Axe

Dr. Josh Axe DNM, DC, CNS, is a certified doctor of natural medicine, doctor of chiropractic, clinical nutritionist and founder of one of the largest natural health websites in the world, draxe.com. He is the founder of The Health Institute, bestselling author of Eat Dirt and Ancient Remedies, and the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition and founder of Leaders.com.