NBC Today reported on six lifestyle habits to try before turning to unauthorized peptides featuring insight from Jordan Metzl, MD, sports medicine physician at HSS. 

Peptides are short-chain amino acids, which are the "building blocks" of protein, Dr. Metzl shared. "They're made throughout our body ... and they can also be synthesized," he continued. 

Since peptides target specific bodily functions, there’s a lot of interest in using them for therapeutic purposes outside of the already approved treatments, Dr. Metzl explained.

The problem? The claims about uses and benefits are outpacing the research on safety and effectiveness.

While peptides may hold promise, the research in humans simply isn't there yet, Metzl explained. If you're looking to improve your longevity, promote muscle growth or enhance performance, you don't need to take peptides. There are plenty of lifestyle changes you can make to reap the benefits popular peptides claim to provide, he said.

Read the full article at today.com.