Peptides are smaller versions of proteins, typically consisting of two to 50 amino acids. — RxFit
In recent years, peptides have become a popular topic in wellness, anti-ageing medicine, sports recovery and regenerative health.
You may see them promoted for boosting metabolism, helping the body heal faster, improving skin quality, sharpening focus, or even supporting longevity.
With so many bold claims circulating online, it can be difficult to know what is true and what is simply marketing.
To make informed decisions, it helps to understand what peptides really are, how they work, and whether they are safe for you to use.
What exactly are peptides?
Although they sound scientific and complicated, peptides are actually something your body uses every single day, quietly and naturally.
To understand them, it helps to think of the body as a busy city that never sleeps.
In this city, thousands of messages are being delivered every second, e.g. reminders to heal a muscle, instructions to calm inflammation, signals that you’re full, and even requests to repair the skin.
Peptides are some of the tiny messengers responsible for carrying these important instructions.
Scientifically, they’re made of short chains of amino acids – the same building blocks that make up proteins.
But unlike large, complex proteins, peptides are much smaller.
They are usually made of two to 50 amino acids, and are nimble and incredibly efficient.
They are like the text messages of the body: short, specific and delivered exactly where they need to go.
Your body makes hundreds of different peptides naturally in almost every part of our biological system.
They help with critical functions such as:
> Hormone activity – like insulin regulation
> Nerve communication – helping the brain send signals
> Cell-to-cell messaging – guiding processes like healing
> Immune responses – influencing how the body protects itself
> Tissue repair and growth – supporting recovery and regeneration.
Because peptides are involved in so many essential processes, researchers have explored how specific peptides can be used to enhance health or treat certain conditions.
Instead of forcing the body to do something unnatural, these peptides gently help the body do what it is designed to do – just more effectively.
How do peptides work?
Think of each peptide as having its own “identity card”.
Its specific sequence of amino acids allows it to interact with a particular receptor in the body, much like a key fitting into a lock.
Once it connects, it can trigger a targeted response.
Depending on the peptide, these responses may include:
> Encouraging the body to release growth hormone
> Supporting collagen production for healthier skin
> Improving fat metabolism
> Calming inflammation
> Speeding up wound or tissue healing
> Improving cellular energy production.
Because peptides can act in precise, predictable ways, they are becoming increasingly popular in personalised medicine.
Many people use them to support recovery, energy, appearance or overall wellness.
Are they safe to use?
Some peptides, like insulin or semaglutide, have been researched thoroughly and approved for medical use.
Others are newer and still being studied.
The biggest safety concern actually comes from where the peptide is sourced.
Medical-grade peptides are made in controlled environments and checked for purity.
Cheap peptides bought from websites, gyms or influencers may contain contaminants, incorrect doses, or sometimes nothing active at all.
This is why medical supervision is non-negotiable.
A trained practitioner ensures that the peptide chosen is suitable for your body, your health history and your goals.
They also monitor your progress and make sure the dosage and method of use are correct.
Without this, even the safest peptides can become risky.
Peptides also aren’t suitable for everyone.
People with active cancer, severe organ disease or certain hormonal problems might need to avoid them.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should also steer clear unless specifically advised they can take them.
Depending on the peptide, its response can include calming inflammation. — 123rf
Types of peptides
Peptides are often grouped by the benefits they provide, and one of the most popular categories is weight and metabolism peptides.
Many people who struggle with their weight often feel like their hunger controls them, not the other way around.
Hormones influence appetite, cravings, and how much fat the body stores or burns.
Peptides such as semaglutide and tirzepatide help by supporting these hormonal pathways to reduce appetite and cravings, and improve insulin sensitivity.
When hunger decreases, cravings become manageable and metabolism improves, weight loss stops feeling like an uphill battle.
These peptides work best when paired with reasonable lifestyle changes that are easier to maintain, instead of taking peptides only.
This combination makes weight loss feel more natural, steady, and achievable.
Skin and anti-ageing peptides make up another large group.
Collagen loss is one of the earliest signs of ageing: the skin becomes thinner, less elastic and more prone to fine lines.
Peptides like collagen peptides and GHK-Cu can help by stimulating new collagen production, increasing hydration, improving skin texture and supporting a more youthful appearance.
Some work at the surface level, while others work deeper, promoting cell regeneration, and even supporting better sleep, which is when the skin does most of its repair work.
People who use skin peptides often notice smoother skin, better moisture retention, and a brighter, healthier look.
While good skincare and sun protection remain essential, peptides provide an internal foundation for healthier ageing.
Finally, brain and mood-support peptides offer gentle support for mental clarity, focus and emotional balance.
Modern life can be overwhelming, and stress, poor sleep and mental fatigue can affect how we function day to day.
Peptides like Selank and Semax help regulate brain chemicals related to calmness, motivation and cognitive performance.
Unlike stimulants, which push the brain into overdrive, these peptides support natural brain chemistry.
Users often describe clearer thinking, less anxiety and better focus.
They are especially helpful for people dealing with stress, burnout, or general “brain fog”.
Working with the body
Peptides are not magic, but they are powerful tools that can work with the body.
When used correctly – with proper guidance, quality assurance and personalised medical oversight – peptides can support healthier weight management, better skin and clearer thinking.
They offer a modern way to help the body do what it wants to do naturally, but with a little more strength, balance and precision.
As research grows, we will likely see more peptides becoming officially approved and widely used.
Until then, the safest path is to work with qualified medical professionals who can guide you based on evidence, safety and your unique health needs.
Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
