WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF PEPTIDES?

Peptides are broken down versions of proteins made up of less than 50 amino acids. Peptides have many benefits to the skin, some of them include; reducing inflammation, reducing wrinkles, improving skin barrier, among others. Because of its numerous benefits, most health and cosmetic companies now include peptides in their products. Canada Peptides are also often added to processed foods.

Just like most things in life, despite their many benefits, peptides also have some side effects. But before we talk about the side effects of peptides, we should first talk about what this compound is used for. This will help you have a better understanding of it.

Benefit and Uses Of Peptides

Slow Down The Process Of Aging

Collagen is a protein found throughout your body – including your tendon, skin, ligament, bone, hair, nail. Collagen peptides are collagen proteins that are broken down and can therefore be absorbed easily by the body.  The primary function of collagen is to help your tissues resist stretching. However, as you grow older, your body produces less collagen. Taking collagen peptide supplements may help slow down the aging process and improve skin health.

Also Read:- Therapeutic Potential and Challenges in the Development of Oral Peptides

Other research shows that taking these supplements may improve skin hydration and elasticity, and also promote the production of melanin.

Build Muscle And Bone Mass

In 2019, a study was made on older adults which shows that collagen peptide supplement can increase muscle strength and mass, and also reduce fat mass. Participants combined collagen supplement with resistance training during the study. Creatine peptide may also help increase muscle and improve strength.

Ease Joint pain

Collagen supplements may help decrease or ease joint pain. This is because collagen helps foster the production of a rubbery material called cartilage. The function of the cartilage is to cover and protect the bone and help joints move easily and smoothly.

Some people also take collagen supplements for weight loss, to boost heart health, improve eye health, improve the appearance of nails and skin, etc.

Side Effects of Peptides

In healthy people, the chances of peptide supplements causing any serious harm are quite low. This is mainly because they share a similar structure with peptides found in regular food. Also, Oral peptide supplements have an extremely low chance of entering the bloodstream. They generally just get broken down by the stomach acid into amino acid. However, this doesn’t mean peptides don’t have some common side effects. 

In unhealthy people or those with a weak digestive system, using peptides can cause an increase in their appetite. It can also lead to fluid retention in some people. The use of some peptides like GHSs may also reduce the sensitivity of the body to insulin, therefore making it hard for the body to sustain normal blood sugar levels.

People who share needles when injecting peptides are also at risk of getting infected by various diseases. 

When used on some skin, peptides may cause symptoms, such as itching, skin sensitivity, and rash.

Here are some other side effects of Peptides when used wrongly or without a doctor’s prescription. 

• Excessive weight loss or gain
• Numbness or tingling
• Reduces fertility
• Itchiness at the site of injection
• High blood pressure
• Severe kidney pain
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Increasing freckles and darkened moles. 
• Mild digestive symptoms 

Generally, peptides are moderately safe to use. They have numerous health benefits with a low rate of side effects. However, if abused or misused, they can be extremely harmful and unhealthy. Also, not all brands of peptides are safe for consumption. The FDA has only approved a handful of these supplements for human use and consumption. It is in your best interest to only buy your peptide supplements and injections from a reputable and well-registered company alone. That is the only way you can be sure that what you are consuming is safe to some extent.   

Also, you should try to consult with a doctor before taking any peptide injections or supplements. This is because your underlying illness might trigger some major side effects after using the supplement. 

If you are breastfeeding, pregnant, or taking any serious medication you shouldn’t take peptides without first speaking to your doctor.