Peptides

Types of peptides used in sports

The world of peptides is extremely diverse. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different peptides, each of which has a unique function in the body. For athletes, the key ones are those that directly or indirectly affect their physical form and exercise capacity. Below are the most important categories of peptides to help you understand their potential.

Peptides for muscle mass

Building impressive muscle mass is the goal of many strength trainees. Peptides can be an extremely valuable support here, acting on several levels. In the case of building muscle mass, Growth Hormone Secretagogues (GHS) are usually used: This is a group of peptides that stimulates the pituitary gland to naturally increase the secretion of growth hormone (GH). Growth hormone is a key anabolic hormone responsible for cell growth, including muscle cells, and their regeneration. These include:

• GHRP-6 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-6): Known for its strong effect on GH release and appetite stimulation, which can be beneficial for people who have trouble getting enough calories during the mass building period.
• GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2): It works similarly to GHRP-6, but typically does not cause such a strong increase in appetite. It is valued for effectively raising GH levels.
• Ipamorelin: Considered one of the "purest" GH secretagogues. It stimulates the secretion of growth hormone without significantly affecting other hormones such as cortisol or prolactin. It acts selectively and is often chosen due to its favorable safety profile.
• CJC-1295 and CJC-1295 DAC: These are analogs of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). CJC-1295 DAC (Drug Affinity Complex) has a much longer half-life, which means less frequent use and more stable GH concentration. They support muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy.

Peptides for weight loss

• HGH Fragment 176-191: This is a modified fragment of human growth hormone, which is specifically responsible for its lipolytic properties (fat burning). Importantly, HGH Fragment 176-191 stimulates fat burning without impacting blood glucose levels or cell growth, making it a very targeted tool. It increases the breakdown of adipose tissue and inhibits the formation of new adipose cells.
• Melanotan 2: Although originally studied for its UV protection and pigmentation (tan effect), Melanotan 2 also has a thermogenic effect and can reduce appetite and increase fat burning. This is a side effect that many athletes have found to be very desirable.
• 5-amino-1qm: A weight loss peptide that has a metabolically modifying effect. In supplementation, it is used to reduce appetite, support energy expenditure and accelerate the effect of fat reduction

Peptides for regeneration

• BPC-157 (Body Protective Compound-157): This peptide has gained enormous popularity due to its extraordinary regenerative properties. It has stronge protective and repairing effects on various tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even the digestive system. Athletes value BPC-157 for its ability to accelerate the healing of injuries, reduce inflammation, and elevate the body's overall ability to repair itself. It can be used both to treat existing injuries and as a preventative measure.
• TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4): A naturally occurring peptide in the human body that plays a key role in the healing process, cell regeneration, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels). TB-500 is known to support the regeneration of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and skin. Increases tissue elasticity, reduces inflammation and may contribute to a faster return to training after injuries.

Peptides for sleep and well-being

• DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide): As the name suggests, this is a peptide associated with sleep induction, especially the delta phase (deep sleep). It can help normalize disturbed sleep patterns, reduce stress and improve the overall quality of rest.
• Epitalon: This synthetic peptide is based on the natural peptide epithalamin, produced by the pineal gland. It is known for its "anti-aging" properties, but also for regulating melatonin production, which translates into better sleep quality and overall body functioning.

Peptides for cognitive functions and libido

• Selank and Semax: These are nootropic peptides that were developed in Russia. Selank has an antianxiety effect, improves mood and can support cognitive functions, especially in stressful conditions. Semax is known to improve concentration, memory, and learning ability. It may also have neuroprotective effects.
• PT-141 (Bremelanotide): This is a peptide used to treat sexual dysfunction in both men and women. It works by activating melanocortin receptors in the brain, which leads to increased libido.1

Why is it worth using peptides?

The growing interest in peptides in the sports community is not accidental. It results from the unique benefits that these substances offer:

1. Precise Action: Peptides, as signaling molecules, can target specific receptors and processes in the body. This allows for the desired effects to be achieved with minimal impact on other systems, which is difficult to achieve with more traditional supplements or pharmacological agents.
2. Versatility of Applications: As you have seen above, there is a wide range of peptides that can support various aspects of athletic performance - from building muscle mass, through fat loss, to recovery, endurance, and even improving sleep quality and cognitive function.
3. Support in Achieving Specific Training Goals:Whether your goal is to increase strength, improve muscle definition, recover from injury, or break through plateaus, properly selected peptides can be a key element of your strategy.
4. Research Potential: Although many peptides are used in sports off-label or based on preclinical studies, their therapeutic and supportive potential is enormous. Continuous research provides new information about their mechanisms of action and possible applications.
5. Natural Processes: Many peptides are synthetic analogues of substances naturally occurring in the body or their fragments. They stimulate physiological processes, which is an important argument for many users.

Do peptides require refrigeration?

Yes, peptides should be stored in the refrigerator after dissolving. This also applies to cosmetics containing peptides. Not only is a cool temperature crucial, but also protection from light and moisture. For this reason, it is not recommended to store the vials in the refrigerator door, where they are exposed to frequent movement.

How are peptides made?

Peptides are created by joining at least two amino acids using a peptide bond. They can be created naturally in the body or synthesized in a laboratory, where the process replicates the chemical reactions that occur during protein creation.

What is the best way to dissolve peptides?

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline solution is best for diluting peptides. The liquid is carefully added to the vial with the peptide in powder form. Avoid vigorous shaking – instead, gently swirl the vial in your hands to avoid damaging the peptide structure.

Are peptides safe?

Many peptides are well-tolerated and work in harmony with the body's natural processes. However, it is important to choose the right substance and follow the recommendations.

Are peptides steroids?

No. They are fundamentally different substances. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules, often stimulating natural processes in the body in a precise way. Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone that act in a more global and invasive way on the endocrine system, usually carrying a much greater risk of side effects. 

Do peptides need to be stored in the refrigerator?

Yes, dissolved peptides should be kept in a cool place, protected from light and moisture.

How do peptides differ from classic dietary supplements?

Peptides act more precisely, influencing specific processes in the body, while regular supplements have a systemic effect.

How to properly prepare and store peptides?

When you receive a peptide, it comes in the form of a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a small vial. To use it, you must prepare it properly.

• Dissolving (reconstitution): For dissolving the powder, it is best to use bacteriostatic water, which is sterile water with the addition of 0.9% benzyl alcohol, which prevents the growth of bacteria. Alternatively, sterile saline can be used. The liquid should be injected into the vial slowly, along the wall, so as not to damage the delicate structure of the peptide.   

  Never shake the vial! Instead, gently swirl it in your hands until the powder is completely dissolved.   

• Storage: This is an absolutely key element. Once dissolved, peptides become very sensitive to temperature and light. They must be stored in the refrigerator (at a temperature of 2-8°C). Avoid keeping them on the refrigerator door, where the temperature is unstable and shaking is frequent. Properly stored, a dissolved peptide maintains its stability for several weeks.

Comparison of the most popular peptides