In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s very easy to search for shortcuts to complete self-improvement goals. For some individuals, peptides seem to be a new, quick and easy method of self-transformation. However, individuals should be cautious with their use of injectable peptides, understanding potential risks and reorienting their focus toward lifestyle changes.
The popularity of peptides has expanded beyond the use of GLP-1s, like Ozempic, for weight loss.
“We’re definitely seeing an uptick in the number of people who are using these peptides for various reasons: to treat skin-related issues, for muscle growth, weight loss, and the challenging part about this is that these injectable peptides are not FDA approved,” said journalism professor Mallary Tenore, author of “Slip: Life in the Middle of Eating Disorder Recovery.”
For many, the seemingly undeniable effects of peptides are highly enticing. Internet influencers have also increased their popularity. Social media, especially for young age demographics, can have an immense impact on individuals’ body image and self-esteem. Social pressure can even transcend social media, factoring into our personal lives.
“When we visibly see other people losing weight in the media, but also within our social circles, it becomes that much more tempting to start thinking about weight loss,” Tenore said. “There is this social aspect where it begins to have this ripple effect where one friend or person in your social group does it, and then you begin to wonder if you should do the same.”
This focus on perfecting one’s appearance can pressure many towards these quick solutions, preferring a more instant and exterior fix rather than a gradual internal change. As a result, many students may turn to peptides without making substantive lifestyle changes.
The high accessibility of injectable peptides also increases their appeal.
“It’s kind of a low barrier to entry,” said a UT student who uses injectable peptides. “All you have to do is purchase them online, and that’s it.”
But students must recognize that these peptides are not without risks.
“There can be a lot of risks involved with using these peptides,” Tenore said. “If the dosing is off, it can lead to muscle paralysis (and) increased heart rate.”
Additionally, even medically prescribed GLP-1s can still have negative side effects.
“The much more serious side effects … include muscle weakness and muscle loss called sarcopenia and a significant decrease in bone mineral density,” said psychology and neuroendocrinology professor Robert Josephs.
Taking these risks into consideration, students should take the time to explore alternative methods for self-improvement. Of course, there are the traditional practices of diet and exercise, but there are also other chemical treatments.
“Testosterone does two things: it builds muscle, and it decreases fat,” Josephs said. “Testosterone also increases bone mineral density.”
However, testosterone still has its own risks to consider and is not a perfect solution. Ultimately, students may utilize a multitude of methods to achieve self-transformation. While chemical treatments may help jumpstart a lifestyle change, a shift in habits is also crucial.
“There is no substitute for diet and exercise,” Josephs said.
It would be easy to see why students turn to peptides as a way to reach their health goals, tempted by the demonstrated effects. Yet, it is also crucial to understand that no solution is absolute and each case deserves empathy. Peptides can be useful in specific situations, but they cannot change your life on their own. Like any other chemical treatment, peptides are only one part of the multi-factored journey towards lifestyle change. Thus, we should be open but cautious in our pursuits of physical wellness, acknowledging that some things are too good to be true.
Stark is a chemical engineering major from Orange County, California.
