Today we’re talking about something every woman deserves straight talk about—perimenopause and menopause and the many changes that happen as estrogen and progesterone begin to decline.

If you want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Now, most of us have heard about hot flashes, but very few people explain what’s actually happening inside our bodies, why it’s happening, and what we can do to feel better. And yes, that includes some really interesting therapies like peptides.

What is happening?

Let’s start with the transition itself. Perimenopause is that phase leading up to menopause, which is officially defined as twelve months without a menstrual cycle. It usually starts in your 40s, though some women notice changes earlier. The reason it can feel like a rollercoaster is all about hormones. 

Estrogen is our multitasker—keeping our bones strong, our skin glowing, our brains sharp, and even helping with vaginal lubrication. When estrogen dips, it’s not surprising that hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings start showing up. 

Progesterone, on the other hand, is what I like to call our “chill hormone.” It helps us sleep and keeps our cycles balanced. When progesterone drops, insomnia, irritability, and mood swings can sneak in. 

And let’s not forget testosterone, which fuels energy, muscle, and libido. As testosterone slowly declines, it’s no wonder sex drive can take a hit. When these three hormones are fluctuating or dropping during perimenopause, it can touch nearly every part of the body, making this phase feel intense and, at times, overwhelming.

Brain fog

Then there’s brain fog. You know, that feeling when you walk into a room and can’t remember why you’re there. Estrogen actually plays a big role in keeping our brain sharp by influencing neurotransmitters like acetylcholine, which manage memory and focus. When estrogen levels fall, those neurotransmitters aren’t as efficient, and poor sleep from night sweats can make brain fog even thicker. 

What helps? Regular exercise, consistent sleep, omega-3s, and even brain-training games can make a difference. And peptides can play a role here too. 

Nootropic peptides like Selank and Semax support neurotransmitter balance, helping with focus, memory, and mental clarity, while also helping the brain manage stress and fatigue.

Weight gain

Let’s talk about one of the biggest frustrations women bring up during perimenopause and menopause—weight gain. You may notice that even if you’re eating the same and moving your body the way you always have, the scale starts creeping up. This isn’t your imagination. As estrogen levels drop, metabolism slows down, muscle mass tends to decrease, and fat starts redistributing—especially around the belly. On top of that, poor sleep, more stress, and shifting insulin sensitivity can all make it harder to keep weight steady.

The good news is there are ways to manage this. Resistance or strength training helps preserve and even rebuild muscle, which keeps your metabolism active. Prioritizing protein with every meal can support that muscle, too. Managing stress through mindfulness, yoga, or simply better boundaries can help with cortisol—the stress hormone that encourages belly fat storage. And paying attention to blood sugar balance, by choosing more whole foods and fewer processed carbs, can really make a difference. For some women, hormone therapy can provide extra support by improving sleep, mood, and metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.

And now, we also have GLP-1 agonists—like semaglutide—and even newer dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists, such as tirzepatide. These medications work by improving satiety, slowing digestion, balancing blood sugar, and supporting insulin sensitivity, all of which can make weight management during menopause more achievable. They’re not magic, but when combined with lifestyle changes, they can be powerful tools to help women feel more in control of their weight and overall health during this stage of life.

Hair changes

Hair changes are another big one. Estrogen helps keep hair thick, strong, and healthy by promoting follicle growth and prolonging the growth phase. When estrogen drops, hair can start thinning. 

At the same time, shifts in androgen levels like testosterone and its potent form, DHT, can trigger hair growth in places we really don’t want it, like the chin or upper lip. 

Collagen supplements, checking iron and vitamin D levels, stimulating the scalp, or even low-level laser therapy can all support healthier hair. 

Peptides like GHK-Cu, a copper peptide, stimulate hair follicles by promoting cell growth, increasing blood supply, and supporting collagen production. Thymosin Beta-4, or TB-500, also helps by reducing inflammation and encouraging tissue repair, creating a better environment for hair growth.

Skin changes

As estrogen dips, natural moisture throughout the body also decreases. This can mean dry eyes, crepey or itchy skin, and new sensitivities popping up seemingly out of nowhere. 

Support can be as simple as artificial tears, omega-3s to support tear production, gentle fragrance-free moisturizers, or running a humidifier at night. 

Peptides like Epitalon reduce oxidative stress, support collagen production, and promote cellular repair, which can improve skin elasticity. BPC-157 helps reduce inflammation and supports healing, making the skin less reactive and more comfortable.

Bladder issues

And then there are those bladder surprises. Ever sneeze, laugh, or cough and suddenly wonder if you should’ve packed a spare pair of underwear? Dropping estrogen weakens the pelvic floor and thins the bladder lining, which can make those little “oops” moments more common. 

Kegel exercises, pelvic floor physical therapy, vaginal estrogen creams, and avoiding bladder irritants like coffee or alcohol can help. 

Peptides like BPC-157 support tissue healing in the bladder and pelvic area, and KPV may help calm irritation in urinary tissues.

Mood changes

Mood changes are another challenge. Shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and serotonin can trigger anxiety, irritability, or low mood seemingly overnight. 

Things like therapy, mindfulness, regular exercise, and making sure you get enough vitamin D and magnesium can really help. 

Peptides give an extra boost too. Selank is a gentle anti-anxiety peptide that won’t make you drowsy, DSIP (Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide) helps improve deep sleep, naturally stabilizing mood, and Semax works on dopamine pathways to lift energy, focus, and motivation when you need it most.

Sex drive

Finally, let’s talk about something we don’t discuss enough: libido. Vaginal dryness, fatigue, and shifting hormones can all make desire dip, and this is very much physiological, not just in your head. 

Lubricants, vaginal moisturizers, hormone replacement therapy, and open communication with your partner can all help. 

Peptides like PT-141 (bremelanotide), work on melanocortin receptors in the brain to boost sexual desire. It’s an on-demand injection, usually taken a few hours before intimacy, and many women feel it helps restore that spark that seemed long gone, though side effects can include flushing or nausea.

So here’s the big takeaway: menopause is much more than hot flashes. It’s brain, body, skin, mood, and sexual function all shifting at once. But you don’t have to just “tough it out.” From lifestyle shifts to targeted peptides, there are tools to help you feel like yourself again. And the most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Every chin hair, every laugh-leak, every brain fog moment—you’ve got millions of women nodding right along with you.

Thanks for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If today’s episode resonated, share it with a friend—because if she’s in her 40s or 50s, she’s probably going through the same changes and wondering if she’s the only one.

And if you want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

 

 

 

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Today, we’re diving into one of the most talked-about topics in health and weight loss right now: GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and the newer dual GIP/GLP-1s like tirzepatide. You’ve probably seen the headlines, scrolled past a few TikToks, or heard a friend mention it — but with all that noise comes a lot of confusion, half-truths, and flat-out myths.

Today we’re breaking it all down. What’s real? What’s hype? And what do you actually need to know if you're using these medications — or thinking about it? Let’s separate science from scare tactics and get to the truth, one myth at a time.

Myth #1: GLP-1s Cause Dangerous Muscle Loss

The claim:  “GLP-1s cause massive muscle loss.”

Truth: This is an overstatement.

Some loss of lean mass is normal with any kind of weight loss — whether it’s through diet, medication, or surgery. What studies show is that with medications like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), about 20–25% of the total weight lost comes from lean mass, and the rest is fat — which is exactly what we’re targeting in obesity treatment. That 20–25% figure isn’t unique to these meds; it’s actually pretty typical in weight loss without focused resistance training or optimized protein intake.

You may also hear “You’ll lose all your muscle and become frail on GLP-1s.”

Truth: You won’t “lose all your muscle.” In fact, muscle loss is preventable by maintaining adequate protein intake, resistance training, and managing weight loss pace. Furthermore, many patients gain strength and mobility as excess weight comes off.

And lastly, my favorite myth is “You can’t preserve muscle on GLP-1s.”

Truth: That’s completely false — muscle loss isn’t inevitable on GLP-1s if you take the right approach. You can absolutely preserve muscle by making a few intentional choices: aim for enough protein each day (a good goal is around 0.8 grams per pound of body weight), include some strength or resistance training a couple times a week, and avoid losing weight too quickly. These simple steps go a long way in protecting your lean mass while still getting all the benefits of weight loss.

One study on semaglutide showed that people lost an average of about 15% of their body weight, and only around 3–4% of that was lean mass. So if someone drops 30 pounds, maybe 6 to 8 of those pounds might be lean mass—not ideal, but definitely not disastrous either, and very manageable with the right lifestyle habits. 

The truth is, while some lean mass loss is expected with any type of weight loss, research shows that most of the weight lost on GLP-1s is actually fat, not muscle. For example, in the STEP 1 trial, about 80% of the weight lost on semaglutide came from fat, and only about 20% from lean tissue (as we mentioned earlier). 

The SURMOUNT-1 trial with tirzepatide showed similar results—significant fat loss with relatively preserved muscle, especially when paired with resistance training. And that’s important, because preserving muscle during weight loss helps protect metabolism, strength, and overall health. With good nutrition and movement, GLP-1s can lead to healthier body composition—not just a lower number on the scale.

Okay, moving along to the next myth …

Myth #2: GLP-1s Can Cause Blindness

The truth: This myth stems from concerns about diabetic retinopathy worsening, which is tied to how quickly blood sugar drops, not to the drug itself.

In the SUSTAIN-6 trial (Marso et al., NEJM, 2016), a small subset of patients with pre-existing advanced diabetic retinopathy saw transient worsening—but only in those with rapid improvements in A1c.

No increased rates of blindness or new-onset retinopathy have been found in non-diabetic patients using GLP-1s for weight loss.

The bottom line is that those without advanced diabetic eye disease, there’s no increased risk of blindness. Patients with diabetic retinopathy should be monitored closely—but this is about glycemic management, not a direct effect of the medication.

Myth #3: GLP-1s Cause Kidney or Liver Damage

The truth: This is false. In fact, GLP-1 agonists may protect kidney and liver function—especially in patients with diabetes or fatty liver disease.

The most recent notable study showing kidney‑protective effects of a GLP‑1 receptor agonist is the FLOW trial, which evaluated semaglutide in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This double‑blind, randomized, placebo‑controlled trial included 3,533 participants followed for a median of 3.4 years and found that semaglutide reduced the risk of major kidney‑related events—including kidney failure, substantial eGFR decline, and death from renal or cardiovascular causes—by 24% compared to placebo.

A 2025 meta-analysis of multiple randomized controlled trials (11 studies, 85,373 participants) concluded that GLP‑1 receptor agonists reduced the risk of composite kidney failure outcomes by 18%, kidney failure by 16%, and all‑cause death by 12%.

And let’s not forget the SMART trial, involving obese patients with kidney disease but without diabetes, found that semaglutide protected kidney function in this non‑diabetic, CKD‑affected population. 

When it comes to the liver, there's actually growing evidence they’re actually helping reverse non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The STEP 1 MRI substudy and SURPASS-3 MRI substudy have shown people on these medications can reduce liver fat by 30 to even 50% and in some cases, completely resolve liver inflammation — that more serious form called NASH, where fat is combined with inflammation and early scarring.

The LEAN trial found that nearly 60% of people taking semaglutide had resolution of NASH, without worsening their liver scarring. That’s huge.

And even better, we’re seeing these effects even in people who don’t have diabetes. Just losing weight helps fatty liver, but these meds seem to do more than that — they actually target inflammation and fat storage in the liver itself..

The bottom line is GLP-1s are not nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic. In fact, they may be organ-protective—especially for people with underlying metabolic issues.

Myth #4: These Drugs Lead to Bone Loss

The claim: “You’ll get osteoporosis from losing too much weight!”

The truth: While extreme weight loss can affect bone density, GLP-1s themselves do not cause bone loss, and may even have neutral or protective effects on bone.

A 2022 study in Bone found no significant change in BMD (bone mineral density) in adults treated with semaglutide for obesity. While the SUSTAIN and PIONEER programs found no increased risk of fractures in semaglutide-treated patients versus placebo.

Truly, concerns about bone loss are more relevant in extreme calorie restriction or eating disorders—not evidence-based GLP-1 treatment with appropriate nutrition.

Myth #5: Everyone Gets Gastroparesis

The claim: “These medications paralyze your stomach”

The truth: GLP-1s slow gastric emptying, which is part of how they work—making you feel full longer. But this is dose-dependent and typically reversible.

A 2023 FDA safety review found that true gastroparesis is extremely rare and resolves when the drug is stopped.

Reality check: Nausea, early satiety, and mild bloating are common but manageable side effects. True, lasting gastroparesis is not typical, especially when doses are titrated gradually.

Myth #6: GLP-1s Make Your Hair Fall Out

The claim: “You’ll lose a ton of hair—just like with crash diets”

The truth: Hair shedding is not directly caused by GLP-1 medications. Instead, it’s often a temporary, non-scarring condition called telogen effluvium, which can happen with any rapid weight loss, regardless of the method.

A 2023 analysis from the American Academy of Dermatology emphasized that telogen effluvium is common with surgical or medical weight loss, especially if patients lose more than 10% of their body weight within a few months.

In clinical trials like STEP and SURMOUNT, hair loss was not listed as a common side effect, but patient-reported data show it occurs occasionally—likely tied to nutritional stress, not the drug itself.

So why does hair loss happen? We’ve talked about this before, but I don’t want to leave this important information out. 

Hair follicles are sensitive to internal stress. Rapid changes in caloric intake, nutrient levels (like iron, zinc, and biotin), or hormone balance can push hairs into the shedding phase. This is a delayed effect, often showing up 2–3 months after weight loss begins, and it typically resolves within 6–12 months.

What helps is slower, sustained weight loss, prioritizing protein intake, supplementing iron, zinc, and biotin if deficient, and avoiding very low-calorie diets and over-restriction.

Myth #6: GLP-1s Cause Dehydration

It’s a common myth that GLP-1 medications cause dehydration — but that’s not exactly true. The medication itself doesn’t directly dehydrate you. What can happen is that some people experience nausea, vomiting, or a reduced appetite early on, which can lead to drinking less water without realizing it. That’s where the dehydration risk comes in.

A good general rule for staying hydrated is to aim for half your body weight in ounces of water per day. So, for example, if you weigh 160 pounds, try to drink around 80 ounces daily — more if you're active or live in a hot climate.

Electrolytes can also be really helpful, especially if you’re feeling tired, dizzy, or crampy. I like LMNT packets — they’re a clean option with no sugar and a good balance of sodium, magnesium, and potassium. The sodium in LMNT packets helps keep you hydrated by pulling water into your cells and helping your body retain the fluids it needs to function properly. Just one a day can make a big difference in how you feel.

Myth #7: You Have to Stay on GLP-1s Forever or You’ll Gain All the Weight Back

The claim: “As soon as you stop taking it, all the weight comes back”

The truth: Yes—some weight regain is likely after stopping GLP-1 medications. But that doesn’t mean they’re ineffective or that you’re doomed to rebound completely. The same pattern happens after any type of weight loss intervention, whether it’s a diet, surgery, or medication.

The STEP 4 trial (Wilding et al., 2022) showed that participants who stopped semaglutide after 20 weeks regained an average of 6% of their weight loss over the next year. But it’s important to note that they still weighed less than at baseline—and many continued to experience improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and insulin sensitivity.

Similarly, in SURMOUNT-4, patients who stopped tirzepatide also regained weight, but less than they lost.

So why does this weight gain happen?

I feel like the answer to this is obvious, but I’ve found that it’s not. 

GLP-1s change your appetite and hunger cues. Once the medication is stopped, your body’s baseline hunger signals return—and often with increased intensity, due to metabolic adaptation. But this isn’t unique to GLP-1s. The same thing happens after crash diets, keto, intermittent fasting, or bariatric surgery if long-term changes aren’t made.

The real issue isn’t the drug—it’s the lack of a plan after the drug. To help make results sustainable, we need to use the medication as a tool, not a crutch. We should use it to help us lose weight and understand our hunger cues, while transitioning to a whole foods, protein based diet coupled with resistance training to help preserve and build muscle. 

Just remember, if you're coming off a GLP-1 and want to keep the momentum going, the key is to approach it thoughtfully. Tapering slowly under medical supervision can help your body adjust and reduce the chances of weight regain. At the same time, this is a great moment to double down on the habits that helped you feel your best while on the medication. Think ongoing support—like working with a health coach, joining a support group, or even doing behavioral therapy—to help reinforce those long-term lifestyle changes. It’s not just about what you stop; it’s about what you keep doing that matters most.

You don’t necessarily have to stay on GLP-1s forever—but if you stop without a plan, some weight regain is very likely. Think of them like glasses: they help you see clearly while you build the habits to eventually navigate without them. For some, that may mean staying on a lower maintenance dose long-term—just like with blood pressure or cholesterol meds.

What are my final thoughts?

I want to be clear—GLP-1s aren’t magic. But they are powerful tools when paired with education, support, and smart lifestyle changes. 

Myths like ‘you’ll go blind,’ ‘you’ll lose all your hair,’ or ‘you’ll be stuck on these meds forever’ aren’t just misleading and downright false—they discourage people from getting real help. 

So if you’re thinking about these medications, get informed, ask the hard questions, and make your decision based on science—not fear.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Today we’re switching gears a bit to talk about a medication rather than a peptide — metformin. If you’re someone who’s interested in peptides for metabolic health or inflammation, you’ve probably heard metformin mentioned alongside them. It’s been around for decades as a diabetes medication, but recently it’s gaining attention for its potential benefits beyond blood sugar, including longevity, inflammation, and neuroprotection — even in people who don't have diabetes.

Let’s get into it.

Metformin and Longevity

Can metformin really help us live longer?

One of the biggest sparks came from a 2014 study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, where researchers found that diabetics on metformin actually lived longer than non-diabetics not taking the medication. 

The authors suggested that metformin may offer protective benefits beyond glucose control, possibly by reducing oxidative stress and slowing cellular aging.

This inspired the launch of the TAME trial—short for Targeting Aging with Metformin—which is designed to test whether metformin can delay the onset of age-related diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. While results are still pending, it’s the first large-scale effort to study aging as a treatable condition, not just a process.

Inflammation and Immunometabolism

Next up: inflammation. Chronic low-grade inflammation is at the root of so many health issues—heart disease, dementia, even depression.

Metformin appears to blunt systemic inflammation by activating AMPK. Think of AMPK as a metabolic master switch that lowers inflammatory signaling.

A 2021 review published in Pharmacological Research found that metformin can inhibit NF-κB, a major pathway that drives inflammation. It also helped lower levels of CRP—a protein made by the liver that rises when there’s inflammation from things like infection, injury, or chronic disease—and IL-6, another immune system protein commonly elevated in chronic inflammatory conditions.

Because of these anti-inflammatory effects, researchers have been exploring metformin’s potential in conditions beyond diabetes, including autoimmune diseases, multiple sclerosis (MS), PCOS, and even COVID—where it’s been linked to lower mortality in patients with diabetes.

Brain Health and Neuroprotection

What about the brain? Can metformin help protect against cognitive decline?

There’s some promising data here too. A 2017 study in Aging Cell found that metformin improved neurogenesis in the hippocampus of aged mice—basically, helping old brains grow new neurons.

In 2019 a cohort study in JAMA Network reported that people with type 2 diabetes taking metformin had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to those not taking it.

Mechanisms may include reduced insulin resistance in the brain, less oxidative stress, and—again—AMPK activation, which promotes mitochondrial health and energy production.

Still, human trials are mixed, and more controlled research is needed before we can call it a “smart drug.”

Lower Cancer Risk

So, here’s an interesting one—can metformin actually lower the risk of cancer? Well, the short answer is: maybe. People with diabetes tend to have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, so part of metformin’s benefit could just come from better managing blood sugar and insulin levels. But what’s really exciting is that researchers think metformin might do even more than that.

There’s evidence suggesting it could have direct effects on cancer cells—like slowing down their growth or making the environment less friendly for tumors. Some studies have found lower rates of cancers like breast, colon, and prostate in people taking metformin.

Now, this isn’t a magic bullet or anything, but it’s a promising area of research that’s getting a lot of attention. So metformin might be pulling double duty: managing diabetes and potentially helping reduce cancer risk through other mechanisms we’re still learning about.

Metabolic Health for Non-Diabetics

Now here’s where it gets controversial—should healthy people without diabetes be taking metformin?

Some researchers argue yes, especially for people with metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, or high inflammation. Metformin improves insulin sensitivity, reduces liver glucose production, and may even support modest weight loss.

That said, there are tradeoffs. Metformin can cause stomach-related side effects (e.g., nausea, gas, heartburn, and diarrhea) and vitamin B12 deficiency (which may lead to nerve damage). It can also cause extreme fatigue. 

Metformin may sometimes cause sexual side effects, like erectile dysfunction in men. Some studies suggest it might lower testosterone, which we know is important for male sexual health. But interestingly, other research points to metformin actually improving blood flow to the penis, which could help with erectile issues. So, it’s a bit of a mixed picture—and it really depends on the individual.

And although rare, it can cause lactic acidosis (a life threatening condition where lactic acid builds up in the blood) in older adults, people with advanced kidney disease, or those who drink excessive amounts of alcohol. So it’s not a free pass. 

So what are my final thoughts and who should you take metformin for longevity?

Metformin isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s definitely not something to start just because you heard about it on a podcast. We still need more research—especially in people without diabetes—to really understand who benefits most. But it might make sense for some people, like those with prediabetes, PCOS, metabolic syndrome, or even older adults looking to support healthy aging. 

As always, it’s something to talk through with your healthcare provider. 

The science is exciting, but it’s all about finding what makes sense for you.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going.

If you’ve ever felt like your head was stuck in a cloud, your thoughts were moving in slow motion, or you walk into a room and forget why you’re there, you’re not alone. Brain fog is real—and it can seriously mess with your productivity, your mood, and even your confidence.

Today we’re going to talk about what brain fog actually is, what causes it, as well as peptides and natural strategies you can use to help.

Let’s get into it.

What is Brain Fog?

“Brain fog” isn’t a medical term, but it is a very real experience. It describes a cluster of symptoms—like forgetfulness, poor concentration, mental fatigue, and lack of clarity. Some people say they feel like they’re walking through mud mentally. Others describe it as feeling “off” or like their brain is buffering.

Now, this isn’t the same as full-blown cognitive impairment or dementia—it’s more like your brain is just tired or underperforming.

Common Causes of Brain Fog

So, what’s really behind that cloudy-headed feeling we call brain fog? It turns out, there are several common culprits—and a lot of them have to do with how your body and brain are (or aren’t) being supported.

First up, poor sleep. Honestly, this one’s a biggie. Sleep is when your brain takes out the trash—literally clearing out toxins, locking in memories, and resetting for the day ahead. Without enough deep, restful sleep, you’re basically trying to function on a low battery. That grogginess, forgetfulness, or lack of focus? All classic signs your brain didn’t get the cleanup it needed.

Then there’s chronic stress. When you’re constantly juggling demands and pressures, your body stays in “fight-or-flight” mode, pumping out cortisol. In the short term, that’s fine. But when cortisol stays high for too long, it can actually shrink the hippocampus—the part of your brain responsible for memory and focus. Not ideal.

Inflammation is another sneaky cause. When you're eating a lot of processed foods, sugar, or unhealthy fats—or dealing with gut imbalances—it can spark low-grade inflammation that messes with how your brain cells communicate. That can slow you down mentally, make it harder to focus, and leave you feeling mentally sluggish.

Let’s not forget about blood sugar swings. If your day looks like coffee and a muffin, then nothing until a big lunch, then a sugary snack mid-afternoon…your blood sugar is on a rollercoaster. And your brain feels it. That foggy, irritable crash? Yeah, that’s part of the ride.

Hormonal changes can also play a big role—especially during menopause, andropause, thyroid imbalances, or even monthly cycle shifts. Hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones all impact brain chemistry, and when they fluctuate, your concentration, energy, and memory can take a hit.

We also have nutrient deficiencies to consider. Your brain needs specific nutrients to thrive—things like B12, magnesium, omega-3s, and vitamin D. If you’re low in any of these (which is more common than you’d think), it can show up as brain fog, low mood, or trouble focusing.

And finally, there’s post-viral fatigue. If you’ve had something like COVID or the flu recently, you might notice it takes a while to bounce back mentally. That’s because your immune system may still be in overdrive, and your brain’s trying to recover right along with the rest of you.

Oh—and a quick shoutout to medications and alcohol. Some meds (like antihistamines, sleep aids, or anti-anxiety drugs) can definitely slow your thinking. And even moderate alcohol, especially over time, messes with memory and focus—sometimes even the next day.

So if your brain’s been feeling a little off lately, it might be worth looking at one—or a few—of these areas to start clearing the fog.

Peptides That Help Brain Fog

If you’ve been struggling with long-term brain fog, there are a few peptides that might be worth exploring. 

Semax and Selank —both originally developed in Russia—are known for their brain-boosting benefits. Semax supports memory, focus, and stress resilience, while Selank works more on the anxiety and mood side by targeting the GABA system, without causing drowsiness. 

Then there’s Dihexa, a powerful nootropic that helps increase BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which plays a key role in growing and strengthening brain cell connections.

 Cerebrolysin is another option—it’s a more complex peptide that’s often used in cases of brain injury or cognitive decline, though it can be harder to get. 

And finally, BPC-157, best known for healing gut and muscle tissue, also has some neuroprotective effects and might support brain health by calming systemic inflammation.

Some Natural Strategies to Clear Brain Fog

Peptides are great, but let’s not forget the basics or more natural strategies we can use that often make the biggest difference.

Some natural ways to fight brain fog:

• Prioritize sleep – 7 to 9 hours. No phone in bed. Create a wind-down routine.

• Eat to balance blood sugar – Think protein and healthy fats with every meal, and cut back on refined carbs. Also pay attention to the order in which you eat specific foods to help prevent blood sugar spikes. For example, start your meal with vegetables, eat proteins and fats next, and end your meal with carbohydrates. 

• Hydrate – Dehydration can make your brain feel sluggish. Try to drink about half your body weight in ounces of water each day. So if you weigh 160 pounds, aim for around 80 ounces.

• Move your body – Even 20 minutes of walking a day improves oxygen flow to the brain.

• Get sunlight – Morning light boosts serotonin and helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

• Try brain-boosting supplements:

• Omega-3s for anti-inflammatory support

• Magnesium for calm and clarity

• L-theanine and rhodiola for focus and resilience

• And Lion’s Mane mushroom—a favorite for memory and nerve growth

And don’t underestimate meditation, cold exposure, or even a good laugh. These shift your nervous system and create space for clarity.

Final Thoughts

So to sum it up—brain fog isn’t “just in your head.” It’s your body’s way of waving a red flag. Whether it’s a lifestyle imbalance, inflammation, or hormonal shifts, your brain is asking for support.

Start with the foundations—sleep, food, hydration, movement. Then, if you want to level up, explore peptides and supplements with a knowledgeable provider.

Your brain wants to work for you. Sometimes it just needs a little help.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

 

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. Today, we’re focusing on an often-overlooked peptide called VIP, short for Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide. The name might sound technical, but this peptide plays some important roles in the body. It helps regulate inflammation, supports nerve function, improves blood flow by relaxing blood vessels, and may even have benefits for things like chronic pain, including back pain.

Let’s get into it.

What is VIP?

We’ve talked about VIP before on a previous podcast, but it’s been awhile and I’d like to start with the basics as a refresher. 

VIP is a 28-amino acid neuropeptide that acts like a signaling molecule in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Think of it like a chemical messenger that can influence a lot of different body systems.

VIP belongs to the glucagon/secretin peptide superfamily, and it’s found throughout the body, including your brain, intestines, lungs, and immune cells.

Now, what does VIP actually do? Well it does quite a bit. VIP works by binding to specific receptors on cells—called VPAC1 and VPAC2—which trigger a chain reaction inside the body through something known as the cyclic AMP pathway. Once activated: 

• It relaxes smooth muscles, which helps open up blood vessels (vasodilation) and airways (bronchodilation)

• It stimulates secretion of water and electrolytes in places like the gut and pancreas—so yes, it helps with digestion too

• It’s a major immune modulator, calming inflammation by regulating immune cell behavior

•  Neuroprotective role, supporting the survival and adaptability of neurons

VIP in Medicine – What’s the Buzz?

VIP has been studied in a variety of conditions.

• Inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s

• Neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

• Autoimmune diseases like osteoarthritis

• Respiratory conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or due to mold toxicity

But today, we’re zooming in on something more tangible for a lot of people—back pain.

VIP and Back Pain – What Do We Know?

Let’s get into the science here.

VIP has recently caught attention for its potential role in intervertebral disc degeneration, which is one of the top causes of chronic low back pain.

A 2024 study found that VIP receptors were significantly reduced in degenerated human discs—which is kind of a red flag. When VIP was given to mice for four weeks, researchers saw slowed degeneration, better structural proteins like aggrecan, and overall healthier discs on imaging.

Promising, right? But here’s the catch—this was a preclinical animal study. We still need human trials to confirm it works outside the lab.

VIP and Joint Pain

And when it comes to VIP and joint pain, there’s a bit more research on VIP and osteoarthritis, especially when the spine is involved.

In OA models, VIP was shown to lower pro-inflammatory cytokines—those molecules that contribute to pain and make joints hurt. But here’s where it gets complicated: some studies report that VIP accumulation in joints might actually worsen pain. So... it’s a bit of a paradox.

So what’s the takeaway? VIP can be helpful—but its role in pain management seems to depend on how much, where, and what kind of pain we’re talking about.

VIP in Peptide Therapy – Real-World Use?

In peptide clinics—especially those using integrative or regenerative medicine approaches—VIP is sometimes part of treatment protocols for nerve-related pain and inflammation. It’s often paired with other peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500.

You can find some clinics that list VIP as a go-to for chronic pain, including back pain. But here’s the reality check, clinical data is limited, success is anecdotal, it’s pricey and results can vary from person to person.

So while VIP might help reduce inflammation and slow tissue degeneration, it’s not a substitute for tried-and-true pain management peptides like BPC-157.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going.

Today we’re going to talk about how peptides might actually help heal your eyes.

If that sounds wild, stick with me. There’s some amazing early research showing how specific peptides may help with things like macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, corneal wounds, and even age-related vision loss. We’re going to break it all down in plain language, and I’ll also explain how each peptide might actually work inside the eye.

Let’s jump in.

AXT107 

Let’s start with AXT107 — a peptide designed to help stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye. These rogue vessels are a major problem in conditions like wet macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

AXT107 is an injection that’s given directly into the eye that targets VEGF and angiopoietin receptors, two major players in abnormal blood vessel growth. In animal studies, it not only stopped new vessels from forming, but also reversed existing damage. Bonus? It forms a little gel-like depot in the eye that slowly releases over time, so it may last longer than current injection-based treatments.

BPC-157 

If you’ve heard of peptides for gut repair or injury recovery, you’ve probably come across BPC-157. But it’s also being studied for the eye, especially for corneal healing.

BPC-157 eye drops seem to speed up corneal epithelial repair — that’s the outer layer of your eye — while reducing inflammation. In rat studies, it helped close up corneal wounds faster, which means it might help with things like dry eye, abrasions, or even post-surgical healing. In fact, while most corneal abrasions fully heal within one to two weeks, BPC-157 can reduce the healing time by several days.

Elamipretide (SS31) — The Mitochondria Booster

This next peptide is especially intriguing — Elamipretide, also known as SS31. You might remember we’ve mentioned it before for its potential in age-related and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. But now, researchers are also exploring its role in slowing or even reversing age-related vision decline when given as an eye or subcutaneous injection.

This peptide goes deep — literally — into the mitochondria of retinal cells, helping them work more efficiently. In aging mice, Elamipretide improved contrast sensitivity and even reversed some vision loss. So it’s not just slowing decline — it may actually restore function.

P21 

The next peptide is P21. P21 is a neurotrophic peptide, which means it helps keep nerve cells healthy. In the eye, that’s a huge deal for preserving vision.

P21 protects photoreceptors and retinal pigment cells, while also calming inflammation when given as a subcutaneous injection. In aging rats with retinal damage, it helped reduce nerve cell death and slowed degeneration.

Visoluten 

Now let’s talk about Visoluten, an oral peptide we’ve discussed before in a previous podcast. As a refresher, it’s important to remember that Visoluten is a bioregulatory peptide that helps support the health of the retina—the part of your eye that converts light into the images you see. It works by supporting the metabolic activity of eye tissues, helping maintain healthy vision and improving the eye’s ability to adapt to stress, aging, or challenging environmental conditions.

Think of it like nutritional support for the eye — especially helpful for people dealing with screen fatigue, bright light exposure, or chronic eye stress. 

This peptide helps support the eye’s natural metabolic activity, which is key to keeping the retina functioning well and protecting it from things like oxidative stress and environmental wear and tear. Think of it as giving your eyes extra support to stay resilient, especially when they're under strain.

Visoluten may also enhance blood flow to the eye, making sure the retina gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to work properly. That’s especially important for people with conditions like age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, where poor circulation and tissue damage are part of the problem.

Retinalamin 

Another oral peptide, Retinalamin, is already being used in some clinical settings — especially in parts of Europe and Asia — for retinal diseases.

It helps normalize vascular permeability in the retina and supports repair mechanisms. It’s shown benefits in people with glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, sometimes even improving visual acuity when given intramuscularly or as an injection around the eye.

PEDF-Derived Peptides 

Here’s where things start to feel futuristic — researchers have developed peptides derived from PEDF, or pigment epithelium-derived factor. PEDF is a natural protein found in the eye — especially in the retina. It plays a protective role by preventing damage to light-sensitive cells, reducing inflammation, and blocking abnormal blood vessel growth. PEDF is considered one of the most powerful natural antioxidants and anti-angiogenic (anti–blood vessel growth) factors in the eye. They help protect photoreceptors from stress and damage — without needing gene therapy or injections.

These peptides are being turned into eye drops that may slow or stop diseases like retinitis pigmentosa (a group of inherited eye diseases that cause the gradual breakdown of the retina, leading to vision loss that often starts with night blindness and progresses to tunnel vision). They also help with AMD, or age-related macular degeneration (an eye condition that affects the central part of the retina (the macula), leading to blurred or lost central vision, especially in older adults.

PHSRN & FGLM-Amide 

The next two peptides I want to talk about are PHSRN and FGLM-Amide. They are also being formulated as eye drops and are specifically focused on healing the cornea.

They activate something called the fibronectin-integrin system, which basically helps the eye’s outer surface cells stick together and heal faster. Great for persistent epithelial defects or those stubborn wounds that don’t want to close.

ALG-1001 (Luminate) 

Finally, there’s ALG-1001, also known as Luminate. A peptide that is administered directly into the eye.

Luminate is a first-in-class peptide drug that targets integrin receptors in the retina—key players in abnormal blood vessel formation. Instead of targeting VEGF, like current treatments, Luminate blocks integrins upstream, preventing both the growth and leakage of harmful vessels — which can be helpful in AMD and diabetic eye disease.

It also has a bonus effect: it helps gently separate the vitreous gel from the retina — a process called pharmacologic vitreolysis. This is especially helpful for people with vitreomacular traction (VMT), a condition where the gel pulls too hard on the retina, causing swelling or vision problems. In clinical studies, about 65% of patients had that pulling relieved after treatment — a result that normally requires surgery.

What About Cosmetic Peptides for the Eye Area

Just to clarify — eye creams with peptides like Matrixyl 3000, Copper Peptides, or Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 are designed to help with puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines — but they don’t affect the internal eye.

They work by stimulating collagen in the skin around the eyes — and while great for cosmetic use, they won’t help with things like glaucoma or macular degeneration.

*Some Words of Caution

Most of the peptides we talked about today are still in preclinical or early clinical stages. That means they’re promising, but not FDA-approved just yet. So please — no DIY peptide eye drops or injections unless you're working directly with a qualified provider.

And as always, if you're dealing with real eye problems, your first stop should be a board-certified ophthalmologist, not a Telegram group or a tweet thread.

So there you have it — a quick tour through the exciting, ever-evolving world of peptide therapy for the eyes. From boosting mitochondria to healing corneal wounds, these tiny proteins might be shaping the future of vision care.

If you found this episode helpful or interesting, go ahead and share it with someone who stares at screens all day — or your biohacker friend who’s already two steps ahead.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Today we’re taking a closer look at SLU-PP-332, a compound that’s gaining attention for its potential role in performance support and metabolic health.

If you're interested in burning fat more efficiently, supporting your mitochondria, or taking your workouts to the next level, stick around—this one’s for you.

What Is SLU-PP-332?

Let’s start with the basics. SLU-PP-332 is not a peptide—it’s a small molecule compound, meaning it’s made from chemical building blocks rather than amino acids like peptides are. However, it's often used alongside peptide therapies because it works through different pathways, making it a great add-on for boosting metabolism, energy, or fat loss.

It was developed as a selective agonist for a group of receptors called ERRs, which stands for Estrogen-Related Receptors. But despite the name, these are not the same as classical estrogen receptors. That’s an important distinction—SLU-PP-332 does not interact with estrogen, nor does it influence estrogen levels in the body.

Instead, it targets a subset of these receptors known as ERR alpha, beta and gamma. These are known as “orphan nuclear receptors,” meaning they don’t have natural ligands but still play an important role in regulating energy metabolism—especially in tissues rich in mitochondria like skeletal muscle, the heart, and brown fat.

Fun fact: SLU-PP-332 actually works the strongest on the ERR-alpha receptor. Scientists use something called an EC₅₀ to figure out how powerful a compound is—that’s just a fancy way of measuring how much you need to get half of its maximum effect. For SLU-PP-332, the EC₅₀ is only 98 nanomolar, which means it takes a super small amount to get the job done. In other words, it’s really effective even at low doses.

What Is an ERR Agonist and Why Does It Matter?

So what happens when we activate these receptors?

As an ERR agonist, SLU-PP-332 helps upregulate pathways involved in mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, and thermogenesis—the body's natural process of producing heat and burning calories. Think of it as flipping a metabolic switch that enhances your ability to use fat as fuel, improves endurance, and supports overall mitochondrial health. 

In other words, SLU-PP-332 has the potential to help you burn more energy, especially during movement, while also improving your metabolic efficiency at rest. Essentially, SLU-PP-332 acts like a workout for your cells—boosting how much fuel your body burns and enhancing energy use, just like physical activity does.

How It Feels and Who Might Use It

Most people who use SLU-PP-332 describe it as a subtle but noticeable boost in clean energy. It’s not a stimulant like caffeine, but at higher doses, it can cause mild nervous system effects such as jitteriness or restlessness—similar to how you might feel after a strong cup of coffee.

Because of this, the best approach is to start low and go slow. Most users begin with an oral dose of 50 to 100 micrograms per day to assess tolerance.

Timing matters, too. It’s ideal to take SLU-PP-332 before a fasted cardio session—like a morning walk or workout—because your insulin levels are lower at that time, and that enhances the fat-burning effects. Some people prefer to split their dose, taking half in the morning and the other half in the early afternoon for sustained benefit.

And it’s best to cycle it. Use it for two to three weeks, then take a one- to two-week break. This helps avoid receptor desensitization and keeps the compound working effectively over time.

Synergy and Stacking Potential

One of the exciting things about SLU-PP-332 is how well it stacks with other metabolic enhancers. For example, it may work synergistically with L-carnitine, berberine, and even GLP-1 receptor agonists to enhance fat oxidation and mitochondrial efficiency. 

That said, you’ll get the best results when using it alongside a whole-foods diet, resistance training, and consistent movement. This is not a quick fix or a substitute for healthy habits—but when added to a solid foundation, it can definitely elevate your performance and results.

Safety Considerations and Who Should Avoid It

Generally, SLU-PP-332 is well tolerated. However, it’s not suitable for everyone.

If you have a history of heart conditions—such as a recent myocardial infarction (heart attack), arrhythmias, or uncontrolled cardiovascular disease—it’s best to avoid this compound unless cleared by a healthcare provider.

Some individuals may notice mild estrogen-like effects such as bloating or breast tenderness. This doesn’t mean it raises estrogen levels directly, but sensitive individuals may be more responsive to downstream effects of receptor activation.

As with anything that boosts energy metabolism, overdoing it can lead to nervous system stimulation—again, similar to the effects of too much caffeine. So it’s important to monitor how you feel and adjust the dose accordingly.

Big Picture Benefits

To summarize, SLU-PP-332 offers a promising new way to:

• Support fat loss through enhanced mitochondrial activity and fat oxidation

• Improve endurance and athletic performance

• Boost energy and cognitive clarity through mitochondrial efficiency

• Potentially support individuals with mitochondrial disorders or metabolic sluggishness

It’s not a miracle pill, but when used thoughtfully—especially in combination with regular exercise, good sleep, and proper nutrition—it has real potential to enhance how your body functions and performs.

With that being said, keep in mind, SLU-PP-332 isn’t typically the first choice for someone who needs to lose 50 pounds or more because it’s not a direct appetite suppressant or a weight loss drug in the traditional sense. 

While it can enhance fat burning, energy metabolism, and endurance, its effects are more subtle and work best in people who are already active and following a structured diet and exercise routine. 

If you’re curious about adding this to your protocol, speak with a knowledgeable provider or peptide specialist to make sure it’s a good fit for your personal goals and health status.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Today we’re going to talk about thymosin alpa 1, what it is, how it works, and why some doctors are using it to help those with Lyme disease

What Is Thymosin Alpha 1?

Let’s start with the basics.

Now we’ve talked about thymosin alpha 1 before in the context of immune health, but as a quick refresher, Thymosin alpha 1, or Tα1, is a peptide — a small chain of amino acids — that occurs naturally in the body. 

It was first isolated from the thymus gland, which is an important immune organ responsible for developing and regulating T cells, especially during childhood. T cells are a type of white blood cell that play a central role in the immune system by identifying and destroying infected or abnormal cells and coordinating immune responses.

Over time, our thymus shrinks and our immune response tends to slow down — which may partly explain why chronic infections or immune dysregulation become more common with age.

Thymosin alpha 1 acts like an immune system coach — it doesn’t directly kill pathogens, but it enhances the immune system’s ability to detect and fight infections. In fact, it’s made a big impact around the world.  

Since its discovery in the 1970s, it’s been used in over 35 countries to help treat conditions like hepatitis B and C, certain cancers, and even sepsis. During the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers explored its potential to calm immune overreactions and improve patient outcomes. It’s also popular in veterinary medicine for helping dogs with chronic infections. Plus, some doctors are now investigating its role in boosting vaccine effectiveness and supporting people with autoimmune diseases or age-related immune decline — making thymosin alpha 1 a real immune multitasker.

Thymosin Alpha 1 and Lyme Disease

So why are doctors using thymosin alpha 1 in Lyme disease?

Well, for many people, Lyme can become a long, drawn-out illness. And while antibiotics are usually the first-line treatment, some patients don’t recover fully — instead, they develop lingering symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, or neurological issues. This condition is known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome, or PTLDS — and we’ll dive deeper into that in just a minute.

In Lyme patients, Thymosin alpha 1 is being used off-label to:

• Rebalance the immune system

• Enhance the activity of T cells and natural killer cells

• Calm overactive inflammation

• Reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups or immune crashes

Doctors report that patients using thymosin alpha 1 often feel more resilient — with improved energy, mental clarity, and fewer immune complications — especially in cases involving co-infections like Babesia, Bartonella, or Epstein-Barr virus.

What Is PTLDS?

Now let’s dig into what happens after Lyme disease treatment for some patients.

Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome, or PTLDS, affects roughly 5 to 20 percent of people who have been treated for Lyme disease. Even after completing a full course of antibiotics, they continue to experience significant symptoms that can last for months — or even years.

Some of the most common symptoms of PTLDS include:

• Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest

• Brain fog, poor memory, or difficulty concentrating (sometimes called 'Lyme brain')

• Joint and muscle pain

• Sleep disturbances

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations (peripheral neuropathy)

• Depression, anxiety, or mood swings

• Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells

• Dizziness or balance issues

• And often, fluctuating or cyclical symptoms — where you feel better for a while, then suddenly crash

These symptoms can be disabling, and they’re often not reflected in standard lab tests, which can make patients feel dismissed or misdiagnosed.

Why Does PTLDS Happen?

Researchers are still working to understand why PTLDS happens, but here are some of the leading theories:

1. Immune system dysregulation – The infection may trigger a chronic inflammatory state that lingers long after the bacteria are gone.

2. Persistent infection – Some believe the bacteria can go into a low-metabolic or dormant state, evading antibiotics and reactivating later.

3. Tissue damage – Nerve and joint tissues may have been injured and take a long time to heal.

4. Autoimmune activation – The body may start attacking its own tissues after the infection — similar to what happens in rheumatic fever.

5. Undiagnosed co-infections – Other pathogens like Bartonella or Babesia may still be active and complicate recovery.

This is where thymosin alpha 1 may offer a new path — not as a cure, but as a modulator that can help restore immune balance and reduce inflammatory damage.

Thymosin Alpha 1 Risk Factors and Who Should Avoid It

Thymosin alpha 1 is generally considered safe and well tolerated, especially because it mimics a peptide your body already makes. But like all therapies, it’s not for everyone.

Possible side effects include:

• Mild injection site reactions

• Fatigue, nausea, or headache (usually early in treatment)

Not everyone is a good candidate for thymosin alpha 1, so it’s important to know who should be cautious. For starters, if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, it's best to avoid it—there just isn’t enough safety data available yet. People taking immunosuppressant medications, like those who’ve had organ transplants, should also steer clear because thymosin alpha 1 stimulates the immune system and could interfere with those drugs. And if you have an autoimmune condition, it’s a bit of a gray area. While some people tolerate it well with low, carefully monitored doses, others might experience a flare, so it’s definitely something to discuss with a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

It’s best to always consult with a healthcare provider experienced in peptide therapies and Lyme disease before starting treatment.

The Bottom Line

So to sum it all up, thymosin alpha 1 is a promising immune-supporting peptide that's gaining attention in the world of chronic illness—especially for conditions like Lyme disease and PTLDS. It’s not a replacement for antibiotics and it doesn’t directly kill infections, but it may help bring balance to an immune system that's either overreacting or underperforming. It’s also being used to calm inflammation, support healing, and help people feel more resilient as they work through long-term symptoms.

If you or a loved one are struggling with lingering symptoms from Lyme disease, chronic fatigue, or an immune system that just won’t seem to bounce back, you’re not alone. Talk to your family physician and ask if they can steer you toward a specialist familiar with peptide therapy and Lyme disease.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, be patient, and as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going.

Today we’re diving into a topic that’s been everywhere lately: GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss. You may know them by names like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Zepbound.

I want to give you a clear, realistic picture of what to expect—because while the media loves to highlight the dramatic before-and-after photos, the real journey can be slower and more nuanced for some.

So in this episode, we’re going to talk about the truth—what these medications can do, what they can’t, how long things really take, and what you need to know to set yourself up for success. Not hype, not magic promises—just real, honest insight to help you understand the process.

Let’s get into it.

How GLP-1 & GIP/GLP-1 Agonists Work

So first things first—how do these meds work?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, and tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. Basically, they mimic natural hormones in your body that help regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and—most importantly for weight loss—reduce appetite and improve satiety.

That means you feel fuller faster and stay full longer. You're not obsessing over food like before. And that’s powerful.

But—and this is a big one— these peptides don't magically erase years of weight gain overnight. What they do is help make weight loss easier by reducing hunger and supporting your metabolism—but they don't do all the work for you. It’s important to remember they're a powerful tool, not a replacement for your efforts. You're still in control of your choices, habits, and long-term success.

Why We Titrate the Dose—and What "Therapeutic Dose" Means

Now, let’s talk about dosing.

When you start Wegovy, you don’t start at the highest dose. It’s gradually increased over several weeks to give your body time to adjust and to help reduce side effects like nausea or stomach upset.

The usual schedule looks like this:

• You’ll start with 0.25 mg once a week for the first month.

• Then it increases every four weeks—0.5 mg, then 1 mg, then 1.7 mg.

• By week 17, most people reach the full dose of 2.4 mg once a week—that’s the dose shown in studies to lead to the most consistent weight loss, with many people losing around 15% of their total body weight over about a year.

But here’s the thing—not everyone follows this path exactly, and that’s okay. Some people need to slow down or stay longer at a lower dose if they’re having side effects. Others may need to increase sooner if they’re not seeing appetite changes and are tolerating the medication well.

And even though 2.4 mg is considered the “therapeutic dose,” not everyone needs to reach it. Some people feel great and lose weight at a lower dose—and if that’s you, that’s your sweet spot. The real goal is to find the lowest effective dose that controls your hunger, helps you lose weight at a steady pace, and keeps side effects to a minimum.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, and pushing through side effects just to hit the max dose isn’t necessary—or safe. Your best dose is the one your body handles well and helps you make progress.

*How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose—and How Fast?

Let’s take a look at the clinical studies.

In large trials, people on semaglutide lost about 15% of their total body weight over 68 weeks. For tirzepatide, it was even higher—20% or more in some cases.

But here’s the thing—those results happened over a year to a year and a half. Not 6 weeks. Not 3 months. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Also, most of the weight loss doesn't happen during the titration phase. You may see some weight loss early on, especially if your appetite plummets. But the bulk of the weight loss happens once you reach and maintain your therapeutic dose.

Why Everyone’s Journey Looks Different

I can’t stress this enough—everybody’s journey is different.

Some people feel zero hunger from their very first injection. Others don’t notice a big change until week 10 or 12. Some drop 10 pounds in the first month. Others lose two pounds and feel discouraged. All of those experiences are normal.

Your age, hormones, medications, stress levels, sleep, and past diet history? They all play a role.

And let’s be real—gaining 20, 50, or 100 pounds didn’t happen in a few weeks, right? It likely took months or even years of lifestyle habits, hormonal shifts, emotional eating, or underlying conditions.

So we have to give ourselves that same grace and patience when we’re trying to take the weight off—even with medical support.

Navigating Side Effects and Setbacks

Let’s talk about the side effects.

Nausea, constipation, acid reflux, bloating—yeah, these are pretty common as your body adjusts. And sometimes, those symptoms are your body’s way of saying: Hey, slow down.

Pushing through intense side effects just to hit a higher dose isn’t the goal. In fact, it’s not safe.

You want the lowest effective dose that keeps your appetite under control, the weight coming off gradually, and your side effects minimal or nonexistent.

If you need to pause treatment to let your gut settle or even go back down a dose, that’s not failure. That’s smart, safe self-care. We’re in this for the long haul.

Trial and Error with Food—and That’s OK

One part of this journey that catches people off guard is how sensitive your stomach becomes—especially to certain foods or drinks.

Greasy or fried foods, spicy meals, carbonated drinks, alcohol—these can all be triggers for nausea or even vomiting while you're on this medication. 

And it makes sense when you think about it: the medication slows down how quickly food and drink leave your stomach. So if you’re eating or drinking things that already tend to irritate the stomach lining, the effects can hit harder and last longer. Even if those foods didn’t bother you before starting treatment, they might now. It’s just one of those things your body has to adjust to, and it may take some trial and error to figure out what still works for you.

What is Healthy, Sustainable Weight Loss?

So what’s a healthy pace of weight loss?

In general, 1 to 2 pounds per week is considered safe and sustainable. But on GLP-1s, that might vary. Some weeks you may lose 3 pounds. Some weeks, nothing. And guess what? That’s normal.

You’re looking for overall downward trends, not perfection.

The goal here is steady, sustainable fat loss—not dropping weight so quickly that you feel miserable, drained, or start losing muscle. Remember, we’re not chasing “skinny”—we’re aiming for strong, lean, energized, and healthy.

And I know we’ve talked about this before, but it’s worth repeating: exercise is not optional when you’re on a GLP-1. It’s a must. When you lose weight, you lose both fat and muscle. If you’re not actively working to maintain or build muscle, you risk becoming weaker and slowing down your metabolism in the process. We want to keep the muscle you have—and ideally, build more—so your body stays strong and your results last.

What Is a “Non-Responder”?

Now let’s touch on something important: what if the medication doesn't seem to work?

Let’s talk about what it means to be a “non-responder” on a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy or Zepbound.

In clinical terms, a non-responder is someone who has been on their therapeutic dose for at least 3 months and has lost less than 5% of their total body weight—even though they’re taking the medication correctly and making lifestyle changes like adjusting their diet, increasing physical activity, and managing stress or sleep.

Let’s break that down with an example:

If someone weighs 200 pounds, 5% of their total body weight would be 10 pounds. So if they’ve been on their therapeutic dose for 12 weeks and have only lost, say, 4 or 5 pounds—despite doing everything right—they may be considered a non-responder.

But as we mentioned before, everyone’s therapeutic dose may be different.

The therapeutic dose isn’t just the maximum dose like 2.4 mg of semaglutide or 15 mg of tirzepatide. It’s the dose at which you personally begin to experience consistent appetite suppression, weight loss, and minimal side effects.

For some people, that may happen at 1 mg of semaglutide. Others may not feel much of a difference until they reach the full 2.4 mg. Some may even respond better at 1.7 mg and not tolerate the higher dose at all. That’s why we titrate slowly, monitor your symptoms, and assess both how you feel and how your body is responding.

So how do we know if you’ve reached your therapeutic dose?

We look at things like:

• Has your appetite significantly decreased?

• Are you noticing earlier fullness or fewer cravings?

• Are you losing weight consistently over time

• Are side effects tolerable or nonexistent?

If the answer is yes, you’re probably at your therapeutic dose.

But if the answer is no—if your hunger hasn’t changed much, the scale hasn’t moved, and you’re not noticing any shift in your eating patterns after 3 months on a stable, higher dose—it might be time to re-evaluate. That could mean adjusting the dose, checking for other health issues that might be interfering (like thyroid problems or certain medications), or even considering a different treatment approach.

*So what are my final thoughts? 

Your journey is unique. Not everyone responds the same way, and that’s okay. The key is finding what works for your body, not just what the label says.

These medications can absolutely change lives. But they’re not magic. They work with your efforts—not instead of them.

You’ll need to be patient, flexible, and kind to yourself along the way. You may need to tweak your dose, change your food choices, or give your body time to adjust. That’s part of the process.

And remember—this isn’t just about weight loss. It’s about reclaiming your health, confidence, and energy. So take it one step at a time. Celebrate every win. And know that slow progress is still progress.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Until next time, be well, be patient, and keep showing up for yourself. And as always, have a happy, healthy week.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Today, we’re taking a close look at 5-Amino-1MQ—a compound gaining attention for its potential to improve fat loss, metabolic health, and longevity. We’ll break down how it works, the science behind it, and what that could mean for your health. Let’s get started.

So, What Is 5-Amino-1MQ?

Now, just to clear something up—5-Amino-1MQ isn’t actually a peptide. A lot of people assume it is because it's often talked about alongside peptides like semaglutide or BPC-157, but it's actually a small molecule compound.

Its full name is 5-Amino-1-methyl-quino-linium—yeah, a bit of a mouthful—and it's designed to block an enzyme called NNMT. By doing that, it helps keep more NAD⁺ available in your cells, which is a big deal for energy production and metabolic health.

It was originally developed in the world of metabolic research. Scientists were exploring ways to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fat accumulation—especially the dangerous kind, visceral fat.

So, while it plays in the same space as peptides when it comes to benefits—like fat loss, energy, and longevity—it’s a totally different kind of compound. Think of it more like a targeted metabolic activator than a signaling peptide.

Before we move on, I want to talk about visceral fat for a bit. 

Visceral fat is the fat that builds up deep inside your abdomen, around your internal organs like your liver, pancreas, and intestines. It’s different from the fat you can pinch under your skin—like on your belly or thighs. That’s called subcutaneous fat.

Now, why is visceral fat a problem?

Because it’s metabolically active, which means it doesn’t just sit there—it releases hormones and inflammatory chemicals that can mess with your body’s systems. High levels of visceral fat are linked to things like insulin resistance, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a greater risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain cancers.

So even if someone looks slim on the outside, having too much visceral fat on the inside can still be dangerous for their health.

*What Is NNMT and Why Do We Want to Block It? Let’s Talk About The Science.

NNMT stands for nicotinamide N-methyltransferase. 

This enzyme tends to be more active in people who are overweight or have metabolic issues. When that happens, it uses up a lot of something called NAD⁺—a compound your cells need to create energy, especially in the mitochondria, which are like the power plants of your cells.

So when NNMT levels go up, here’s what tends to happen:

You end up with less NAD⁺, your metabolism slows down, your body stores more fat, and your cells just don’t have the same energy or resilience.

That’s where 5-Amino-1MQ comes in. It blocks NNMT, helping your cells hold onto more NAD⁺—and that changes everything.

The Metabolic Benefits of Blocking NNMT

*So what happens when you increase NAD⁺ inside your cells?

Well, in studies—especially in animal models—5-Amino-1MQ led to:

• Fat breakdown and reduced fat accumulation

• Improved insulin sensitivity

• A 30% drop in cholesterol levels

• And get this—mice lost 5% of their body weight in just 11 days, without changes to diet or exercise.

And here’s the kicker—no signs of toxicity or behavioral changes. No weird side effects. Just better metabolic function.

Muscle Preservation & Longevity Pathways

*One of the most promising things about 5-Amino-1MQ goes beyond fat loss—it’s what it could mean for preserving muscle.

Blocking NNMT might actually help you keep your muscle while you’re losing fat. That’s a big deal—especially if you’ve ever tried to drop weight and felt like you were losing strength along with it. This is important because most weight loss methods cause you to lose both fat and muscle, which can slow your metabolism and reduce strength. Preserving muscle while burning fat helps you maintain energy, performance, and long-term metabolic health.

There’s also some solid evidence it can boost muscle performance and endurance, which tracks when you think about how it raises NAD⁺.

And because NAD⁺ is involved in things like cell repair, mitochondrial function, and longevity pathways like sirtuin activation, you’re not just burning fat—you’re potentially supporting healthy aging and helping your body work more efficiently overall.

Oral vs Injectable 5-Amino-1MQ: What’s the Difference?

People often ask me, “Should I take 5-Amino-1MQ as a pill or go with injections?”

Here’s the deal, the injectable version gets into your system faster and starts working a bit quicker.

On the other hand, the oral version takes a little longer to kick in, but it’s way more convenient—just take a capsule and you’re good. No needles, no fuss.

And honestly? Most people say they feel the same benefits either way—whether it’s fat loss, energy, or mood. So unless you’re looking for super fast absorption, oral works great for most people.

Wrapping It Up: Why This Matters

To recap—5-Amino-1MQ helps:

• Boost NAD⁺ levels

• Shrink visceral fat tissue

• Improve insulin sensitivity and cholesterol

• Preserve muscle mass during weight loss

• Enhance endurance

• Activate longevity pathways

And it does it by blocking an enzyme that works against you—NNMT.

This isn’t magic—it’s smart metabolic science. And it might just be the edge you need if you’re hitting a plateau or looking to optimize how your body performs, heals, and ages.

Thank you for listening to The Peptide Podcast. If you enjoyed the show and want to support what we do, head over to our Partners Page. You'll find some amazing brands we trust—and by checking them out, you're helping us keep the podcast going. 

Have a happy, healthy week!