FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Peptides

  • What are peptides?

    Peptides are short chains of amino acids that influence various biological processes. They are naturally occurring and play a role in functions such as hormone regulation, cellular repair, immune response and metabolism.

    For example, insulin (a peptide) is necessary for sugar regulation within the body.

  • What is peptide therapy?

    Peptide therapy is the use of specific peptides to improve body functions, enhance health and promote healing.

  • Are peptides safe to use?

    Peptides are generally safe when used correctly. If you’re considering peptides, it is best to research them thoroughly and consult your doctor before beginning your protocol.

  • What are some of the potential side effects of using peptides?

    Peptide side effects depend on the type of peptide, dosage, and how it’s used. Some common side effects are:

    • Injection site reactions – swelling, redness, pain, or irritation
    • Nausea or upset stomach
    • Water retention
    • Fatigue

    Always source your peptides from a reliable distributor and follow the correct dosage. Consult your doctor if you have questions or concerns.
     

  • What should I do if I experience adverse side effects to my peptide protocol?

    If you experience side effects from your peptide protocol, first assess their severity.

    • Mild issues (nausea, headaches, water retention) may improve by lowering the dose or adjusting injection timing. Many peptides take time for the body to adjust. If side effects persist or worsen, take a break from the peptide and observe if symptoms resolve.
    • Moderate symptoms (joint pain, mood changes) might require pausing use and monitoring.
    • Severe reactions (swelling, breathing issues) stop use immediately and seek medical attention.

    Ensure your peptides are from a reputable source to avoid contamination or incorrect dosing.

    If side effects don’t resolve after stopping or adjusting the dose, consult a health professional for guidance.
     

  • Are there different ways of administering peptides?

    Yes! Peptides can be taken in different ways depending on their type and purpose. The most common methods of administration are:

    • Injections
    • Oral capsules or liquids
    • Nasal sprays
    • Topical creams or patches 

    You can learn more about these types of administration in our introductory peptide blog! 

  • What are some common peptide protocols?

    Peptide protocols can vary based on the goal (healing, weight loss, muscle growth, etc.).

    Here are some common peptide therapy protocols:

    1. Muscle Growth & Fat Loss

    Peptides:

    • CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin (Growth Hormone Boost)
      • Dose*: 100-300 mcg of each, injected before bed
      • Frequency: 5 days on, 2 days off (or daily)
      • Duration: 8-12 weeks
    • AOD-9604 (Fat Loss)
      • Dose*: 250-500 mcg SubQ in the morning
      • Frequency: Daily
      • Duration: 8-12 weeks

    2. Healing & Recovery

    Peptides:

    • BPC-157 (Tissue & Gut Healing)
      • Dose*: 250-500 mcg SubQ (or oral for gut health)
      • Frequency: 1-2x daily
      • Duration: 4-8 weeks
    • TB-500 (Deep Tissue Healing)
      • Dose*: 2.0-5.0 mg twice per week
      • Frequency: Every 3-4 days
      • Duration: 4-6 weeks

    3. Brain & Cognitive Function

    Peptides:

    • Semax (Focus, Mood, Neuroprotection)
      • Dose*: 300-600 mcg nasal spray
      • Frequency: 2-3x daily
      • Duration: 4-6 weeks
    • Selank (Anxiety, Stress, Memory)
      • Dose*: 250-500 mcg nasal spray
      • Frequency: 1-3x daily
      • Duration: 4-6 weeks
    • Dihexa (Memory, Neurogenesis)
      • Dose*: 5-10 mg oral or topical
      • Frequency: Daily
      • Duration: Ongoing

    4. Immune Support & Autoimmune

    Peptides:

    • Thymosin Alpha-1 (TA-1) (Immune Modulation)
      • Dose*: 1.5-3.0 mg SubQ
      • Frequency: 2-3x per week
      • Duration: 8-12 weeks
    • Thymosin Beta-4 (TB4) (Immune & Recovery)
      • Dose*: 2-5 mg SubQ
      • Frequency: 2-3x per week
      • Duration: 8-12 weeks

    *Peptide dose is unique to each individual. Be sure to calculate your dose and research your peptide protocol prior to starting.

    For more information, schedule a coaching session!

  • How long does it take to see results from a peptide protocol?

    How long it takes to see results from a peptide protocol depends on the peptide, dosage, and individual factors like diet, exercise and overall health.

    Most people notice some effects within 2-4 weeks, with full benefits in 8-12+ weeks depending on the peptide and goal.

  • Can lifestyle affect peptide results?

    Yes! Several factors can affect peptide results, including lifestyle, dosage, and individual biology.

    • Consistency – Peptides work best when taken regularly.
    • Diet & Nutrition – Supports fat loss, muscle gain, and recovery.
      • High-protein intake helps muscle-building peptides.
      • Anti-inflammatory foods support healing peptides.
      • Low-carb diets may enhance fat-burning peptides
    • Sleep & Stress Management – Critical for muscle growth and healing peptides.
      • Growth hormone peptides (CJC-1295, Ipamorelin) work best when sleep is optimized.
      • Deep sleep = better recovery, muscle growth, and fat loss.
      • High cortisol (stress hormone) reduces GH release, slowing peptide effects.
    • Dosage & Protocol – Higher doses don’t always mean faster results.
      • Low-Quality Peptides and unregulated sources can lead to impure or fake peptides.

    Peptides don’t work in isolation! Supporting them with proper diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management will aid in getting results. Always consult with your doctor before beginning your peptide protocol.

    Not getting the results you’d like? Schedule a coaching session!
     

  • Can peptides interfere with other medications?

    Yes, peptides can interfere with medications, depending on the type of peptide and the medication you're taking. Some peptides affect hormones, metabolism, and immune function, which may interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications.

    Growth Hormone Peptides (CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Tesamorelin)

    • May affect diabetes medications by altering insulin sensitivity.
    • Can interact with thyroid meds by influencing metabolism.

    Fat Loss Peptides (AOD-9604, Tesamorelin)

    • May impact blood sugar levels, affecting insulin or glucose-lowering drugs.

    Healing Peptides (BPC-157, TB-500)

    • May interfere with NSAIDs or blood thinners by affecting blood clotting and inflammation.

    Cognitive Peptides (Semax, Selank, Dihexa)

    • Can interact with anti-anxiety or antidepressant medications.

    Immune Peptides (Thymosin Alpha-1, TB-500)

    • Could alter the effects of immunosuppressants or autoimmune medications.

    Always consult with your doctor before beginning a peptide protocol.
     

  • Can peptides regulate hormones?

    Yes! Peptides can aid in hormone regulation by stimulating or inhibiting specific signaling pathways in the body. Many peptides influence growth hormone, insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones, helping to optimize metabolism, recovery, and overall health.

    Peptides can help balance hormones naturally, but they should be used strategically to avoid imbalances. If you’re considering peptides for hormone regulation, it's best to monitor bloodwork, consult with your doctor, and adjust as needed.

  • How do I find the dosage for my peptide protocol?

    Finding the best dosage for your peptide protocol can be an individualized process. It is recommended to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it while monitoring the effects on your body. Pay attention to any side effects or lack of desired effects as you adjust the dosage.

    Finding the right peptide dosage depends on:

    • The type of peptide (muscle growth, healing, weight loss, etc.)
    • Your body weight & metabolism
    • Your goal (short-term vs. long-term use)
    • Your experience level (beginner vs. advanced)

    To calculate an appropriate dosage, start by understanding the recommended dosing range for the specific peptide. Most peptides are dosed in micrograms (mcg) or milligrams (mg), and the correct amount is typically based on body weight (e.g., mcg per kg of body weight). For example, BPC-157 is often dosed at 2-10 mcg per kg, meaning a person weighing 80 kg (176 lbs) would take 160-800 mcg per dose.

    When calculating peptide dosages, it is important to use bacteriostatic water to reconstitute the peptide properly. Most peptides come in 5 mg or 10 mg vials, requiring careful measurement. If a 5 mg vial is mixed with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water, each 0.1 mL (10 units on an insulin syringe) will contain 250 mcg of the peptide. Adjusting the dosage requires calculating based on how much liquid has been added to the vial and how much is drawn into the syringe. Beginners should start with the lowest effective dose and increase if needed, always tracking effects such as sleep, fat loss, or muscle gain.

    Calculate your peptide dosage here. 

    Always research the peptide protocol before beginning. Consult your doctor with any questions.
     

Supplements

  • Why should I stack supplements with peptides?

    Stacking supplements with peptides helps maximize results, enhance absorption, and reduce side effects by providing the body with the necessary nutrients to support muscle growth, fat loss, healing, and overall health. Peptides act as signals, telling the body to repair tissue, build muscle, or burn fat, but without the right fuel, their effects may be limited.

    A well-planned peptide and supplement stack ensures your body has the right nutrients to get results, minimize unwanted side effects, and promote long-term success.

  • What supplements are commonly used with peptides?

    Based on your goal, here are examples of supplements commonly stacked with peptides:

    For Muscle Growth & Recovery

    • Creatine Monohydrate – Increases strength and energy.
    • Collagen Peptides – Supports joint and skin health.
    • Magnesium – Helps with muscle relaxation and recovery.

    For Energy & Metabolism

    • L-Carnitine – Boosts fat metabolism and endurance.
    • Berberine – Supports blood sugar control and fat loss.

    For Brain Health & Focus

    • Lion’s Mane Mushroom – Promotes nerve growth and brain function.
    • Alpha-GPC – Boosts acetylcholine for memory and focus.
    • Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Supports brain function and reduces inflammation.

    For Immune Support

    • Vitamin D + K2 – Supports immune function and bone health.
    • Zinc – Helps immunity, testosterone, and wound healing.
    • NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) – Boosts glutathione for detox and lung health.

    For Anti-Aging & Longevity

    • Resveratrol – Activates longevity genes and fights inflammation.
    • NAD+ Boosters (NMN or NR) – Supports energy production and DNA repair.
    • CoQ10 – Helps mitochondrial function and heart health.

    Always consult your doctor before adding supplements to your peptide protocol.

  • Do I need to adjust my supplement dosages when using peptides?

    You may need to adjust supplement dosages when using peptides, as peptides can enhance nutrient absorption, metabolism, and hormone levels, which may change your body's needs.

    It’s best to start with standard supplement dosages and adjust based on how you feel, bloodwork, and peptide response. Overloading on supplements while using peptides could lead to overstimulation or unnecessary intake of certain nutrients.

  • Can I stack multiple supplements with peptides?

    Yes, you can stack multiple supplements with peptides, but it’s important to do so strategically to enhance effectiveness, prevent imbalances, and avoid unnecessary overlap. Peptides work by signaling the body to perform specific functions, while supplements provide the nutrients and support needed to maximize results.

    Match Supplements to Your Peptide Goal

    • Muscle Growth (CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin, IGF-1 LR3) → Creatine, Collagen, Magnesium, Zinc.
    • Fat Loss (AOD-9604, Tesamorelin, GLP-1 agonists) → L-Carnitine, Berberine, Green Tea Extract.
    • Healing & Recovery (BPC-157, TB-500) → Collagen, Vitamin C, Omega-3s.
    • Brain Function (Semax, Selank, Dihexa) → Lion’s Mane, Alpha-GPC, Omega-3s.
    • Longevity & Anti-Aging (Epitalon, GHK-Cu) → NAD+ boosters (NMN, NR), Resveratrol, CoQ10.

    Avoid Overloading on Supplements

    • Some nutrients, like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D, can be beneficial but may cause side effects if taken in excess.

    Cycle Supplements Like You Cycle Peptides

    • Some supplements, like fat-burning compounds, work best when cycled to avoid adaptation.

    Watch for Interactions

    • Peptides that affect insulin (Tesamorelin, GLP-1 agonists) may require adjusting glucose-regulating supplements like berberine. 

    Always consult with your doctor before stacking supplements with peptides.

  • How long should I stack supplements with peptides?

    The length of time you should pair supplements with peptides depends on your goal, peptide cycle, and overall health needs. Most peptide protocols last 8-12 weeks, so supplements should be taken throughout this period for maximum effectiveness.

    After 8-12 weeks, it’s best to cycle off peptides if needed, but many supporting supplements can be continued based on health goals. Monitor your progress and adjust accordingly. Always consult with your doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Coaching

  • How does working with a personal trainer enhance peptide results?

    A personal trainer can improve fitness and athletic performance by providing structured workouts, expert guidance, and accountability tailored to your specific goals. Whether you’re focusing on muscle growth, fat loss, endurance, or athletic performance, a trainer helps optimize training efficiency while reducing the risk of injury. When combined with peptides, a trainer can further enhance results by structuring workouts to complement peptide protocols. By aligning peptide use with proper training and nutrition, a personal trainer helps you achieve faster, more sustainable results.

  • How can health coaching help with a peptide protocol?

    Health coaching can maximize your peptide protocol by ensuring you’re doing everything needed to get faster, better results. Peptides alone don’t work magic—they need the right diet, exercise, sleep and lifestyle habits to be effective. This can include setting specific goals, monitoring progress, offering motivational support, and helping to navigate any challenges or adjustments that may arise during the protocol.

    Schedule a coaching session to get started.

  • Can nutritional coaching help with peptide results?

    Yes! Nutritional coaching can enhance peptide results by ensuring your body gets the right fuel to maximize their effects. Peptides send signals to promote muscle growth, fat loss, healing, and hormone balance, but without proper nutrition, benefits may be limited. A well-structured diet ensures your body has the fuel needed to maximize results and minimize side effects.

  • Why should I choose a personalized plan made by a nutrition coach?

    Choosing a personalized plan from a nutrition coach ensures that your diet is tailored to your specific goals, body type, and peptide protocol, maximizing results and preventing imbalances. Unlike generic meal plans, a customized approach considers your metabolism, activity level, food preferences, and any existing health conditions, helping you optimize muscle growth, fat loss, and hormone balance. A nutrition coach can also adjust your plan over time, ensuring continued progress and addressing any challenges, such as digestive issues, energy levels, or side effects from peptides. With expert guidance, you’ll have a structured, science-backed plan that enhances peptide effectiveness and keeps you on track toward your goals.

  • How can I book a coaching session?

    Book your coaching session with Joy here.