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Peptides are a generic term for a small protein (consisting of a short string of 2 to 50 amino acids). They are found in protein-rich foods such as meat and fish, as well as in every cell and tissue of our body!

However, peptides can also be man-made (synthetic) and stimulate the release of growth hormones. These chemical messengers instruct bodily processes which promote bone and tissue growth.

Peptides are a natural alternative for anabolic steroids. However, according to Professor Ken Ho (a world renowned hormone expert), there is no scientific evidence that peptides bring performance benefit.

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The most used peptide in sport is HGH (human growth hormone). HGH is a naturally occurring molecule released by the pituitary gland. These are banned by WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency).

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Collagen peptides are found in health and cosmetic products (such as serums and moisturisers) and are used or anti-aging and skin health.

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Sports where peptides are most commonly taken illegally

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Sports where peptides are most commonly taken illegally

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Peptides are used in sports which require power and strength.

These include:

Bodybuilding - athletes try to alter their body composition by using GHS (growth hormone secretagogues).

AFL players - In 2012, 34 Essendon FC players were found guilty of using the banned peptide Thymosin beta-4 which enables higher training loads to be completed and aids soft tissue recovery.

Cyclists - many cyclists have been guilty of taking HGH (human growth hormone) to improve their endurance and ultimately gain an advantage over their competitors.

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Furthermore, therapeutic peptides are injectables that hold great promise for cancer treatment. The NRC-3 peptide, for example, is used to fight breast cancer, while the RGD peptide is used to target tumours. Therapeutic peptides are a prescription-only substance in Australia, which means they can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.

Insulin is another peptide hormone which is taken by a Type 1 diabetic to control their blood sugar.

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On the musculoskeletal system:

Positively changes body composition and muscular performance

Improves lean muscle growth

Reduces muscle damage

Shortens soft tissue repair and the time it takes to recover from injury

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On the cardiovascular system:

Cardiovascular peptides help maintain cardiovascular homeostasis

Improves exercise/cardiovascular capability

Other:

Improves stamina

Improves sleep quality

Decreases body fat levels

Increases energy

Kills microbes

Reduces inflammation

Prevents the formation of blood clots

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Why are these beneficial for athletes trying to gain an unfair advantage?

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Why are these beneficial for athletes trying to gain an unfair advantage?

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Peptides are beneficial to athletes who want to increase their strength, endurance and lean muscle. They also can speed up recovery from injury which is invaluable to athletes and gives them an edge to their competitors.

Although the side effect of extreme hunger may not be favourable to all athletes, it is advantageous for bodybuilders who are trying to consume more protein.

It is important to note that peptides are also hard to detect as they penetrate the skin and intestines and are quickly absorbed by the bloodstream. This is why peptides are preferred by athletes because they have to get doping tests done regularly.

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Physiological (physical) risks:

High cholesterol

Hair loss

Swelling

Aches and pains

Intense hunger

Increase in heart rate

Muscles may look bigger, but they aren’t necessarily stronger. It comes down to fluid retention as the muscle tissue has more water rather than muscle fibre.

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Physiological (physical) risks:

Accelerate the growth of cancer

In January 2013, Jon Mannor (a NRL player from the Cronulla Sharks) death from Hodgkins Lymphoma was suspected to be accelerated from the use of peptides.

On the cardiovascular system - excess growth hormone can lead to an enlarged heart muscle.

Psychological (mental) risks:

CRF (an injectable peptide which helps the brain experience happiness) has been susceptible to switching and causing long term stress and depression.

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Testing procedures undertaken by anti-doping agencies

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Testing procedures undertaken by anti-doping agencies

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In the past, there hasn’t been a reliable test for HGH to distinguish between what is natural and what is synthetic so many athletes have been able to get away with doping.

Advanced doping tests are expensive and require specialty trained experts.

Urine tests detect the recent use of peptides. They only detect drugs taken within the last 2-3 days.

Hair follicle tests detect long term drug use within the last 90-100 days.

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Heppell was one of 34 Essendon players involved in the 2012 drug program. He was found guilty of taking thymosin beta-4 which enhances muscle growth, and speeds healing. He was suspended by the AFL for two years.

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In 2003, Chambers (a former European 100m champion and British track champion) tested positive for HGH (Serotism) and insulin (Humalog) along with other drugs. He was banned for two years and not allowed to compete in the Athens Olympics.

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Jacobs is an American baseball player who tested positive for HGH in 2011. He took peptides in attempt to overcome knee and back problems. He was suspended by the Major Baseball League for violating guidelines and served a 50 game suspension.

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Sinkewitz is a German cyclist who is currently suspended until 2024 for doping. His A and B samples revealed he had taken recombinant growth hormone (recGH) during the 2011 Grand Prix of Lugano.

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Newton is a British rugby league player who was found guilty of taking human growth hormone. The UK Anti-Doping authority placed a two-year ban on Newton and he was fired from his club, Wakefield.

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As top prospect for the Atlanta Brave, Schafer was suspended 50 games for taking human growth hormone.