Best Oral Peptides: For Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Skin, and More

[Disclaimer: The information in this article is only for general informational and educational purposes. It does not substitute medical advice from your physician or healthcare provider. Please consult a medical professional if you have any health-related questions or concerns.]

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that serve important functions throughout the body.

From regulating appetite to healing skin wounds, peptides influence many aspects of human health.

Traditionally, injectable peptide solutions have been the most common method of systematic delivery.

However, oral pills or liquids are also fast gaining popularity due to their ease of use.

In this article, we’ll explore the top science-backed oral peptides available and how they might improve your health and performance.

TL;DR – Top Oral Peptides

Here’s a quick snapshot of the most promising oral peptides for different health goals:

Category	Peptide Name
Oral Peptides for Muscle Growth	MK-677 (Ibutamoren) L-carnosine
Oral Peptides for Skin Health	Collagen PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide)
Oral Peptides for Fat Loss	Semaglutide Tesofensine
Oral Peptides for Testosterone	VDAC1-derived peptides

Want to go deeper on peptides?

You’ll find everything I’ve written about peptides neatly organized on my website for easy browsing.

But if you’re serious about mastering peptides, check out my Peptides Demystified course. 

You’ll learn everything from how to reconstitute and inject peptides (don’t worry, we’ve got video demos!) to advanced strategies for combining different peptides for maximum effect. 

Plus, we’ve included over 2.5 hours of Q&A to address your burning questions.

For those of you who want to go even deeper, grab my book “Optimize Your Health with Therapeutic Peptides” on Amazon. 

It’s packed with in-depth information on how these amazing molecules can revolutionize your health and longevity.

What Are Oral Peptides?

Peptides are short chains of 2 to 50 amino acids linked by peptide bonds. 

Oral peptides refer to peptide supplements that can be taken by mouth, usually as pills or liquids.

Most peptides can’t be taken orally because they don’t effectively reach their target in the body.

This ability to reach the target is called “bioavailability.”

Several factors affect whether an oral peptide will be bioavailable:

• Size and Structure: Some peptides are too big to be absorbed by your gut. They can’t squeeze between cells or through your digestive system’s special “doors” (transporters and channels). It’s like trying to fit a basketball through a cat flap – it just won’t go through. For example, insulin.
• Toughness: Your digestive system is pretty harsh. The stomach is super acidic (with a pH as low as 1.7), while your intestines can be slightly alkaline (up to pH 8). Many peptides that work fine in your blood (which has a pH of about 7.4) can’t survive this acid bath. They get broken down before they can be absorbed.
• The Liver Filter: Even if a peptide survives your stomach and gets absorbed, it still has to pass through the liver. Your liver filters out many substances before reaching the rest of your body. Some peptides get caught by this liver filter and never reach their destination.

It’s worth noting that not all peptides need to be absorbed into the bloodstream to work.

Some do their job right in the gut.

But even these must be tough enough to survive the harsh conditions there.

Because of these challenges, scientists have to work hard to create oral peptides that reach their targets in the body.

They might change the peptide’s structure, add protective coatings, or use other mechanisms to help the peptides survive and get absorbed.

 

Benefits of Oral Peptides

Potential benefits of oral peptide supplements include:

• Faster injury healing
• Lean tissue preservation
• Neuroprotective qualities
• Anti-aging effects on skin
• Improved energy and vitality
• Reduced inflammation and pain
• Increased muscle mass and strength
• Enhanced fat-burning and weight loss
• Hormone regulation and libido enhancement

Oral peptide supplements provide targeted activity on receptors and pathways influencing many aspects of human health and performance.

For male-specific concerns, there are particular peptides for men that can address issues like testosterone production, muscle growth, and sexual health.

Do Oral Peptides Work? Are Oral Peptides Effective?

Yes, oral peptides can be effective when properly formulated.

They need to survive the harsh environment of your digestive system, get through the mucus lining of your intestines, and then cross the intestinal wall to enter your bloodstream. 

To overcome these hurdles, scientists use clever delivery systems called lipid-based nanocarriers.

Think of these as protective vehicles for your peptides. 

Here’s how they work:

• Protection from Enzymes: These nanocarriers shield peptides from enzymes in your gut that would usually break them down.
• Mucus Penetration: Some nanocarriers are designed to be smaller than 200 nanometers (that’s really tiny!) and have special coatings that help them slip through the mucus layer easily.
• Absorption Boost: Once at the intestinal wall, these carriers can help peptides get absorbed in several ways. They might open up gaps between cells (paracellular uptake), get swallowed by cells (endocytosis), or even fuse with cell membranes to release the peptides.
• Lymphatic System Entry: Some lipid-based carriers can help peptides enter the lymphatic system, bypassing the liver and avoiding the “first-pass effect.”

These advanced delivery systems have shown promising results in clinical studies.

For example, the oral peptide ‘semaglutide’ (a.k.a. Rybelsus) has been approved for treating type 2 diabetes.

In clinical trials, it has been found to reduce HbA1c (a measure of blood sugar) by up to 1.5% and help people lose up to 5 kg.

However, not all oral peptides live up to marketing claims due to poor bioavailability, insufficient dosing, or inappropriate expectations.

Best Oral Peptides

Here are the leading science-backed oral peptides in major health categories:

Best Oral Peptides for Muscle Growth

Two standout oral peptides that might help you pack on lean mass more effectively:

1. MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

First up on the muscle-building list is MK-677, also known as Ibutamoren.

This mimics a hormone called ghrelin, which tells your body to release growth hormone.

A 2008 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine tested oral administration of MK-677.

It gathered 65 healthy older adults (60 to 81 years old) and gave them either 25 mg of MK-677 or a placebo daily for a year.

The MK-677 group saw the following results results:

• Their growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I levels matched those of healthy young adults.
• They gained an average of 1.1 kg of fat-free mass (that’s the good stuff, like muscle).
• Their body cell mass increased by 0.8 kg.

Meanwhile, the placebo group lost about 0.5 kg of fat-free mass!

Some experienced side effects, such as increased appetite (which usually went away after a few months), leg swelling, and muscle pain.

Also, their fasting blood glucose increased slightly (about 0.3 mmol/L or 5 mg/dL), and their insulin sensitivity decreased a bit.

On the bright side, MK-677 seemed to affect cholesterol positively:

• “Bad” LDL cholesterol went down by 0.14 mmol/L (5.4 mg/dL)
• “Good” HDL cholesterol stayed the same

In short, MK-677 looks promising for building muscle mass, especially in older adults.

2. L-carnosine

L-carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide (a molecule made of two amino acids) found in muscles.

It’s being given a lot of attention for its potential to boost muscle performance and slow down aging.

A comprehensive review published in Recent Patents on Drug Delivery & Formulation in 2015 dug deep into the science behind L-carnosine.

Here’s what they found:

• Muscle Power Booster: L-carnosine acts as a muscle buffer, helping maintain the right acid-base balance during exercise. This could help you work out harder and longer.

• Versatile Health Benefits: The review suggests carnosine could help with various health issues, from neurodegenerative diseases and eye problems to diabetes and cancer.

• Anti-Aging Properties: Perhaps most excitingly, the researchers found that carnosine might help protect telomeres (the protective caps on your DNA) during exercise. This could have significant anti-aging implications.

The researchers developed a specific oral formulation called Can-C Plus, designed to boost carnosine levels in the body.

While this review is incredibly promising, more research is needed, especially in humans, to fully understand how to best use carnosine as a supplement.

Best Oral Peptides for Skin Health

These oral peptides could help you achieve that youthful glow from the inside out:

3. Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is crucial for keeping skin firm and elastic.

A review published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual in 2022 dug into the research on collagen supplements. 

They found that taking collagen orally can improve various aspects of skin health:

• Collagen supplements can boost skin hydration
• They can improve skin elasticity (that’s what keeps your skin looking tight and bouncy)
• They might even help reduce wrinkles

The researchers found that collagen peptides directly affect the fibroblasts in your skin (these cells produce collagen).

They might work through “oral tolerance” (your body learns to recognize and use the collagen better).

Another study published in Nutrients in 2018 tested collagen in a real-world scenario. They gave 64 people either a placebo or 1000 mg of a specific type of collagen peptide daily for 12 weeks.

The results:

• After 6 weeks, the collagen group had significantly better skin hydration than the placebo group.
• By 12 weeks, the collagen group showed improvements in skin wrinkling and elasticity.

The collagen was well-tolerated, with no severe side effects.

4. PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide)

PEA is a fatty acid that your body naturally produces. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

A 2016 study in Neurotherapeutics looked at how PEA might help with skin issues related to multiple sclerosis treatment.

Here’s what they did:

• They gave PEA to people with MS who were also taking a drug called interferon-β1a (which can cause skin side effects)
• The study lasted for one year

The results were promising:

• PEA reduced skin side effects from the MS drug
• It lowered levels of inflammatory molecules in the blood
• PEA also seemed to improve joint pain and mobility

While this study was specific to MS patients, it suggests that PEA could have broader applications for skin health, particularly in reducing inflammation.

Best Oral Peptides for Fat Loss

While diet and exercise are essential, these oral peptides might give you an extra edge in your weight loss journey:

5. Semaglutide

If you’re looking to shed some pounds, semaglutide might be worth your attention.

This peptide mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which helps control blood sugar and appetite, making it one of the most promising GLP-1 supplements for weight management.

A 2021 study published in Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism examined how oral semaglutide affected appetite and body weight in people with type 2 diabetes.

Here’s what they found:

• After 12 weeks, people taking semaglutide ate about 39% less food overall than those taking a placebo.
• The semaglutide group felt more full and satisfied after meals.
• They lost an average of 2.7 kg (about 6 pounds), mostly from body fat.

Another study, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine Research in 2023, investigated how semaglutide affects body composition.

After 24 weeks of treatment:

• Patients lost significant amounts of body fat
• Importantly, they didn’t lose muscle mass
• Their blood sugar control improved significantly

Semaglutide can have side effects, though. Some people have reported nausea, increased heart rate, and a slight increase in blood pressure.

(NOTE: Semaglutide is available in various forms, with Rybelsus being the brand name for the peptide in its oral form. I AM of the opinion that the subcutaneous injectable formulation known as Wegovy is superior on all fronts)

6. Tesofensine

Tesofensine works by affecting three different brain chemicals: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.

Originally developed for neurological conditions, researchers noticed it had a surprising side effect: weight loss.

A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology in 2010 tested tesofensine in rats with diet-induced obesity.

The results were impressive:

• After 28 days, rats given tesofensine lost 5.7% to 9.9% of their body weight, depending on the dose
• The weight loss was sustained throughout the study
• Tesofensine inhibited food intake for a longer duration than other weight-loss drugs
• It also seemed to increase energy expenditure

A human trial published in the International Journal of Obesity in 2010 found similar results:

• After 14 days, people taking tesofensine lost about 1.8 kg (4 pounds) more than those taking a placebo
• They reported feeling more full and less hungry
• Their bodies burned 18 g more fat per day
• Energy expenditure increased by 4.6% during the night

However, tesofensine increases heart rate and blood pressure, especially at higher doses.

Best Oral Peptides for Testosterone

Testosterone is vital to building muscle, boosting energy, or improving overall vitality.

This oral peptide shows promise in naturally supporting your body’s testosterone production:

7. VDAC1

While exploring the best peptides for testosterone, researchers have found some promising results with VDAC1-derived peptides.

A Frontiers in Endocrinology study examined how these peptides affect testosterone levels in male rats.

Here’s what they found:

• Oral administration of certain VDAC1-derived peptides increased circulating testosterone levels
• The most effective peptide was RdVTQ
• The effects were consistent across different ages of rats

VDAC1 is involved in transporting cholesterol into mitochondria, a crucial step in testosterone production.

These peptides enhance this process.

Remember that these studies were done in rats.

We’d need human trials to determine whether these peptides would work the same in humans.

How to Choose the Right Oral Peptide

Consider your health priorities, needs, and lifestyle when selecting oral peptides.

Key factors include:

• Intended Effects: Match the peptide mechanism of action to your goals.
• Dosing Convenience: Oral doses usually range from once weekly to multiple times per day. Consider how often you can consistently take an oral peptide.
• Evidence Strength: Verify clinical studies support the specific formulation.
• Safety: Avoid peptides with questionable purity or contaminants.
• Legal Status: WADA bans some peptides for competitive athletes.

Potential Side Effects of Oral Peptides

Oral peptides are well-tolerated by most healthy adults, especially when professionally supervised.

However, potential side effects may include:

• Digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, or cramping
• Skin flushing and irritation
• Changes in blood cell counts
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Hypoglycemia
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

Certain health conditions or medications may have contraindications to oral peptide supplements.

Therefore, medical guidance is recommended when using them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s address some common questions about oral peptides:

Are Oral Peptides Safe for Long-Term Use?

Yes, most oral peptides appear safe for chronic usage based on clinical studies to date. However, data is limited on usage beyond 1-2 years. 

Following proper peptide storage and handling guidelines is crucial to maintain their efficacy and safety over time.

Do Oral Peptides Require a Prescription?

This depends on the specific peptide and your location. Some oral peptides are available over-the-counter as dietary supplements, while others may require a prescription. 

Always check your local regulations and consult with a healthcare provider.

Can Oral Peptides Be Combined with Other Supplements?

Yes, oral peptides may be stacked with supplements like vitamins, protein powders, probiotics, and botanicals under medical guidance. Ensure your provider reviews all medications and supplements.

How Quickly Can Results Be Seen from Oral Peptides?

Benefits are often noticed within weeks. However, for muscle gain, fat loss, and anti-aging effects, results may take 2-3 months. 

The timeline for peptide therapy results can vary depending on the specific peptide and individual factors; patience is key.

Conclusion

We’ve covered a lot of ground on oral peptides, and I hope you’re as excited about their potential as I am. These compounds are changing the game in health optimization.

But let me be clear: knowledge is power when it comes to peptides. I’ve spent years researching and experimenting with these powerful tools, and I can tell you firsthand that using them effectively and safely requires understanding.

I invite you to join me and other like-minded biohackers in The Fully Optimized Health Private Membership Group.

This is where we dive deep into using peptides to optimize health, especially for those in their 30s and beyond.

We’re talking cutting-edge biohacking, health optimization strategies, and the latest and greatest in peptide therapy.

And don’t forget to check out our other premium educational content about therapeutic peptides:

Peptides Demystified – the step-by-step, A-to-Z system for newbies desiring to master peptide use for the first time and forever.

The Ultimate GLP-1 Video Masterclass – how to PROPERLY utilize the world’s most powerful weight loss drugs for enhanced fat loss and overall longevity.

The Modern Woman’s Peptide Course – a must-have resource for any woman seeking to become more feminine, sexier, leaner, and healthier through the use of peptides.

See you on the inside!