What are Peptides?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as biological messengers in the body. They signal to cells what to do and when to do it—such as repair tissue, modulate inflammation, improve metabolism, or support hormone signaling.
Peptides naturally occur in the human body and play key roles in:
-
Hormone regulation
-
Immune function
-
Tissue repair
-
Brain and nervous system optimization
-
Enhancing metabolic signaling
-
Supporting lean muscle preservation
-
Improving mitochondrial efficiency
-
Modulating inflammation
Aging, stress, illness, and hormone decline can disrupt normal cellular communication. At Arcadia, we utilize peptides as part of a comprehensive, personalized program to support these cellular pathways.
​
How Peptides Work
Unlike hormones that may have widespread effects, peptides work by binding to specific receptors on cells, creating targeted, intelligent signaling. Think of peptides as text messages between cells. Precision instructions rather than broad stimulation. Restorative signals that help the body do what it was designed to do. Because of this specificity, peptides often integrate beautifully with bio-identical hormone therapy (BHRT) rather than replacing it.
​

Why Peptides Are Used in Functional Medicine?
Peptides are not a "quick-fix", but rather a systems based tool that works best when combined with a comprehensive program that focuses on lifestyle interventions, gut repair and hormone balancing.
Common Areas Peptides May Support:
-
Energy & metabolism
-
Muscle repair and recovery
-
Fat loss and body composition
-
Joint, tendon, and soft tissue healing
-
Gut and immune health
-
Cognitive function and brain health
-
Sleep quality and circadian rhythm
-
Healthy aging and cellular repair
Individual responses may vary. At Arcadia peptides are selected based on symptoms, physiology, labs, and overall goals.
​​

Depending on the peptide and clinical goal, peptides may be delivered via:
-
Subcutaneous injection
-
Oral or sublingual forms
-
Nasal delivery
Dosing is individualized, often cyclical, and guided by clinical response. Peptides work best cycled over a period of time.
A Synergistic Relationship
Peptides do not replace hormones, but they may:
Improve hormone receptor sensitivity
Help the body respond better to BHRT
Reduce the need to “push doses” of hormones
In other words, peptides help the hormone symphony play more smoothly.

Safety & Medical Oversight
Peptide therapy should always be:
Medically supervised
Sourced from reputable compounding pharmacies
Personalized—not protocol-only
As with any therapy, peptides are not appropriate for everyone, and careful screening is essential.
Our Philosophy
We don’t chase trends.
We use peptides strategically, based on physiology, evidence, and your unique biochemistry. Our goal is not stimulation—but restoration, balance, and resilience.