Peptides are short chains of amino acids (the building blocks of proteins).

Here’s a clear breakdown:

• Size: Peptides are usually 2–50 amino acids long. Anything larger is generally called a protein.
• Structure: They’re held together by peptide bonds, which link one amino acid to the next.
• Natural role: Your body makes many different peptides that act as hormones, signaling molecules, enzymes, or parts of larger proteins.
  Examples:
  
  • Insulin → a peptide hormone that regulates blood sugar.
  • Collagen peptides → small fragments from collagen protein that support skin, joints, and connective tissue.
  • Endorphins → peptide neurotransmitters that help reduce pain and boost mood.

Because they’re smaller than proteins, peptides are often more easily absorbed or can act more quickly in the body.

They’re used in medicine (like peptide-based drugs), skincare (anti-aging creams, wound healing), and wellness/fitness (muscle growth, fat loss, recovery).