Podcast
The Peptide Podcast
Hosted by The Peptide Queen · EN
The Peptide Podcast makes health and wellness decisions SIMPLE, FAST, and FUN. In less than 15 minutes each weekday, you'll get accurate, unbiased updates on peptides—from disease prevention and performance health to anti-aging and more.
Hosted by The Peptide Queen, a clinical pharmacist with more than 15 years of experience, the show cuts through internet confusion to give you clear, reliable information so you can choose what's best for you.
50episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Fatigue on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide
Jan 2900:08:56Tap to summarizeIf you've started a GLP-1 medication and found yourself thinking, "Why am I so tired all of a sudden?", you're definitely not alone. Today, we're talking specifically about fatigue with semaglutide and tirzepatide—what the research actually shows, why fatigue seems more common with some GLP-1s than others, and what you can do if your energy feels lower than usual. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/fatigue-on-semaglutide-or-tirzepatide/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
Glutathione
Jan 2200:11:14Tap to summarizeToday, we're talking about something your body relies on every single day—yet most people have never heard of it. It's called glutathione, often referred to as the master antioxidant. You may also see it labeled as L-glutathione or GSH, but for this episode, we'll simply call it glutathione as we break down what it is, why it's so important, and how it helps protect your cells and support overall health. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/glutathione/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
The Science Behind Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Retatrutide
Jan 1500:06:44Tap to summarizeToday we're diving into how medications like semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide work in the body—and how they compare to the hormones your body naturally produces. Once you understand the biology behind them, their effects start to make a lot more sense. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/the-science-behind-semaglutide-tirzepatide-and-retatrutide/ Dr. Nikki's Qualifications: https://bifat.life/about/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
Glucose 101 — How Blood Sugar Shapes Your Health
Jan 800:11:28Tap to summarizeToday we're talking about glucose — what it is, why your body absolutely needs it, and how the way glucose enters your bloodstream affects your energy, weight, hormones, inflammation, and long-term health. Glucose often gets a bad reputation, but the truth is much more nuanced. Glucose itself isn't the problem. In fact, without it, you couldn't survive. What really matters is how fast glucose enters your bloodstream and how often that happens. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/glucose-101-how-blood-sugar-shapes-your-health/ Dr. Nikki's Qualifications: https://bifat.life/about/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
Oral Semaglutide
Jan 100:06:24Tap to summarizeToday, we're diving into an exciting development in obesity treatment—oral semaglutide. Last week, the FDA approved Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill as the first and only oral GLP-1 for weight loss in adults. This approval is based on results from the OASIS-4 phase 3 clinical trial showing that a once-daily oral version of semaglutide can deliver nearly the same weight loss results as the injectable form. So, what does that really mean for patients and treatment options? Let's break it down. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/oral-semaglutide/ Dr. Nikki's Qualifications: https://bifat.life/about/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
DSIP Peptide Therapy for Sleep
Dec 2500:09:56Tap to summarizeToday we're talking about sleep — something that affects every system in the body, yet is often overlooked until it becomes a problem. Not just how many hours you're in bed, but how deeply you sleep, how well your body restores overnight, and whether you actually wake up feeling rested. We're also going to talk about a peptide that's been getting more attention in the wellness space for sleep support: DSIP, or Delta Sleep–Inducing Peptide. Read the Full Episode Transcript: https://pepties.com/dsip-peptide-therapy-for-sleep/ Dr. Nikki's Qualifications: https://bifat.life/about/ Related Links/Products Mentioned: Peptide Podcast Partners Page https://pepties.com/partners/ BioLongevity Labs (Purchase Peptides online) Purchase Peptides online at BioLongevity Labs: Use our link and enter COUPON CODE: PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout to receive 15% off your total order: https://go.biolongevitylabs.com/SH5C Momentous Supplements (we use Creatine, Vital Aminos, Whey Protein) https://crrnt.app/MOME/OqGQOxGA LMNT – More Salt, Not Less. https://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/johnjavit Thorne Supplements (we use Omega-3 with CoQ10, Red Yeast Rice, Zinc) https://get.aspr.app/SH1KvW Organifi Creatine and Shilajit Gummies http://rwrd.io/rlbkajm?c MitoZen (methylene blue for Cognitive Function, Anti-Aging, Mental Clarity) https://www.mitozen.com/ref/cnlwiztypt/ For skin and hair health (Copper Tripeptide-1) Visit Luminose by Entera for an exclusive offer for Peptide Podcast listeners! ** Promo code PEPTIDEPODCAST at checkout for 10% off an order or 10% off the first month of a subscribe-and-save. ** https://www.enteraskincare.com/?rfsn=8906839.f93c72 NAD+ Push Patch: https://www.pushpatch.com/ 📚 Free Information: A Comprehensive Guide to the Top 27 Peptide Therapies https://pepties.com/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-top-27-peptide-therapies-how-they-work-benefits-and-side-effects/ The Ultimate Peptide Therapy Guide https://pepties.com/the-ultimate-peptide-therapy-guide/ Peptide Injections: How Do You Inject Yourself With Peptides? https://pepties.com/guide-to-injecting-peptides/ Top Episodes: Injectable BPC-157 vs Oral BPC-157 https://pepties.com/injectable-bpc-157-vs-oral-bpc-157/ NAD+ https://pepties.com/nad/ FAQs About Tirzepatide https://pepties.com/faqs-about-tirzepatide/
Transcribe →
Peptides For Brain Fog
Jul 31, 202500:08:14Tap to summarizeThank 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.
Transcribe →
VIP for Pain
Jul 24, 202500:04:36Tap to summarizeThank 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.
Transcribe →
Peptides to Help Heal Eyes
Jul 17, 202500:09:57Tap to summarizeThank 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.
Transcribe →
SLU-PP-332
Jul 11, 202500:07:09Tap to summarizeThank 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.
Transcribe →