Understanding Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins — And How Peptides Support Health and Longevity
Published 2 months ago • 7 min read
I have been nose deep, learning about amino acids, peptides, and proteins in the midst of an adventurous kitchen remodel. Yes, two very unrelated things, but somehow they are keeping me balanced. Let me tell you why. Have you ever heard of a smooth remodel? I certainly have not - and of course we are no exception. Though we haven't uncovered anything too crazy, we have been experiencing unexpected delays in our remodel. Our chaotic kitchen has caused an extended chaotic diet. We do our best considering the circumstances (and are grateful for our grill and friends who have been hospitable to us). I have been studying amino acids, peptides, and proteins for some time now, and decided to incorporate these supplements into my diet even before the remodel started. I noticed a difference right away! Even throughout our remodel - in which we haven't been able to have a 100% normal diet - I have felt fantastic! I am looking forward to the completion of our project so that I can proceed with our normal lifestyle, not only for my sanity, but also to continue to see the even stronger results of these magnificent products.
I wanted to share an overview of what I've been learning, and hope to go much deeper into the benefits of amino acids, peptides, and proteins on future newsletters. This topic has me so excited knowing how much it can benefit your health - as it has mine.
-Laurel
Understanding Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins — And How Peptides Support Health and Longevity
Proteins are the building blocks of life—but how do they form, and why are smaller components like peptides becoming so important in health and wellness conversations? Let’s explore how amino acids form peptides, how peptides become proteins, and how specific peptides like GLP-1, BPC-157, and TB-500 are being used to support healing, metabolic health, and even anti-aging.
Amino Acids: The Foundation of Proteins
Amino acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. Often referred to as the "building blocks of life," there are 20 primary amino acids that the human body uses. Nine of these are essential, meaning the body cannot make them and they must be obtained from food or supplementation. Each amino acid has a basic structure: a central carbon atom bonded to a hydrogen atom, a carboxyl group, an amino group, and a unique side chain (or "R" group) that gives each amino acid its distinctive properties.
From Amino Acids to Peptides
When two or more amino acids join together, they form peptides. This bond is called a peptide bond, and the resulting compound is a dipeptide (two amino acids), tripeptide (three), or polypeptide (many). These chains can range from just a few amino acids to dozens. Peptides are short chains, typically under 50 amino acids. They are naturally found in the body and often act as signaling molecules, telling cells what to do—like regulate appetite, manage inflammation, or trigger tissue repair.
From Peptides to Proteins
When polypeptide chains become longer and fold into complex three-dimensional shapes, they become proteins. These proteins take on structural, enzymatic, or regulatory roles in the body. For example, collagen (a structural protein) gives skin its firmness, while insulin (a protein hormone) helps regulate blood sugar.
Popular and Therapeutically Promising Peptides
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) GLP-1 is a naturally occurring peptide hormone secreted by the intestines in response to food intake. It plays several key roles:
Enhances insulin secretion
Suppresses glucagon (which raises blood sugar)
Slows gastric emptying
Reduces appetite
Pharmaceuticals based on GLP-1, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), are now widely used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. GLP-1 peptides are not just useful for blood sugar control; they’re showing promise in reducing inflammation, supporting brain health, and potentially slowing cognitive decline.
BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound)
BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide derived from a protective protein found in the stomach. It has gained attention for its impressive regenerative properties:
Accelerates wound healing
Promotes tendon, ligament, and muscle repair
Supports gut lining integrity
May reduce inflammation and pain
Unlike many peptides, BPC-157 is stable in the digestive system and can be taken orally, though injections are often more effective for tissue repair.
TB-500 (Thymosin Beta-4 Fragment)
TB-500 is a synthetic version of a part of thymosin beta-4, a naturally occurring protein involved in tissue repair and regeneration. Benefits of TB-500 include:
Accelerated muscle and tissue healing
Improved flexibility and reduced inflammation
Enhanced recovery after injury
Athletes and those recovering from orthopedic injuries often use TB-500 to speed healing and reduce downtime.
Peptides and Anti-Aging
Peptides are becoming central to anti-aging strategies, with several mechanisms at play:
Collagen-boosting peptides (like Matrixyl) help skin stay firm and youthful.
Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) stimulate the body’s natural production of growth hormone, supporting muscle mass, fat metabolism, and recovery.
Mitochondria-supporting peptides like Humanin and SS-31 protect cells from oxidative stress and support energy production.
Peptides may also play roles in cognitive protection, immune regulation, and telomere maintenance—all important factors in healthy aging.
Conclusion
From the tiny amino acid to the powerhouse protein, peptides are the middle link—and they’re proving to be more than just a transitional structure. With therapeutic peptides like GLP-1, BPC-157, and TB-500, we're learning how to harness these molecules to support healing, balance metabolism, and promote longevity. As science evolves, peptide therapies may offer new frontiers in personalized, regenerative, and preventive health.
References
Nelson, D. L., & Cox, M. M. (2017). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry (7th ed.). W.H. Freeman.
National Human Genome Research Institute. Amino Acid: https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Amino-Acid
Alberts, B. et al. (2014). Molecular Biology of the Cell (6th ed.). Garland Science.
Lodish, H. et al. (2016). Molecular Cell Biology (8th ed.). W.H. Freeman.
Drucker, D. J. (2018). Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Application of Glucagon-like Peptide-1. Cell Metabolism, 27(4), 740–756.
American Diabetes Association. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: https://diabetes.org/diabetes/medication-management/glp-1-receptor-agonists
Sikiric, P. et al. (2018). BPC 157 and the healing of the gut and brain: A review. Current Neuropharmacology, 16(2), 192–202.
Gwyer, D. et al. (2022). Peptide Therapies in Orthopaedics. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, 27, 101873.
Goldstein, A. L. et al. (2005). Thymosin beta 4: a multi-functional regenerative peptide. Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, 97(1), 57–62.
Sosne, G. et al. (2010). Thymosin beta 4 and tissue regeneration. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1194(1), 190–198.
Kim, J., & Kim, H. (2018). Anti-aging interventions. Integrative Medicine Research, 7(3), 205–212.
Campbell, K. L., & Leidy, H. J. (2007). Dietary protein and resistance training in older adults. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, 10(1), 40–44.
U.S. FDA. Approved peptide drugs: https://www.fda.gov
WHO Drug Information Vol. 32, No. 3 (2018). Peptides and proteins as new therapeutics.
Featured Products
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Pendulum GLP-1 Probiotic
This product is formulated to enhance your body’s natural GLP‑1 production — the “un‑hunger” hormone tied to appetite control, blood sugar balance, and metabolic health. The key probiotic, Akkermansia muciniphila, produces propionate and the P9 protein—both known to stimulate GLP‑1. Clostridium butyricom generates butyrate, which is linked to GLP‑1 release. Bifidobacterium infantis produces acetate and lactate to nourish Akkermansia & C. butyricum, supporting gut health and GLP‑1 pathways. Interestingly, the preclinical and consumer evidence indicates strong reductions in food cravings across categories (fast food, sweets, carbs, fats).
Pendulum Glucose Control
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Lunch & Learn: Thermography and Your Health
We are honored to welcome Dr. Chip Gilmour to Westside Natural Health to share about the benefits of incorporating Thermographic Imaging into your self-care plan. Come see him during your lunch hour on Friday, July 18th at Noon for an intriguing teaching about the value of thermographic images in your overall wellness plan.
Bring your lunch to this free event. We will also have healthy snacks! Please reserve your seat by calling us at (812) 303-4407. Space is limited.
BRAS Thermography
Our next mobile Thermography screening will be held on July 18th, 2025. As always, please contact BRAS Thermography Louisville at (502) 895-1224 to schedule your imaging appointment.
Keep in mind that in addition to breast thermal imaging, they also conduct half-body and whole-body thermal images. This kind of imaging can really help you identify areas of inflammation in your body. This way you can see if your health and wellness protocols are producing the result of decreased inflammation by comparing images from year to year.
3rd Anniversary & Client/Customer Appreciation
Join us on Friday, August 1st, as we celebrate our 3rd Anniversary at our Franklin Street location. We're also celebrating YOU, our valued clients and customers! Don't miss out on a fantastic sale and giveaway! Stop in anytime on August 1st from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Westside Natural Health Event Ideas:
We would love to hear your thoughts on which events/presentations you would like to see at Westside Natural Health! We would appreciate your feedback please click the button below to take survey.
July 18th: Lunch & Learn - Thermography and Your Health with Dr. Chip Gilmour
July 18th: Mobile Thermography Day
August 1st: 3 Year Anniversary/Client Appreciation Day!
Stay tuned: My Go-To Natural Remedies Collection
Review Request!
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We look forward to providing you with care and wellness resources this summer!
With love,
Laurel, Sherry, Dara, Kelsea, and Sydney
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Westside Natural Health 2003 W Franklin Street, Evansville IN 47712 812-303-4407
