Peptide hormones (EPO)

• • Peptide hormones are naturally occurring hormones within the body
• They can help improve muscle growth, thereby improving:

  • Strength
  • Stamina
  • Recovery from injury
  • Energy levels
• EPO is a peptide hormone secreted by the kidneys which regulates red blood cell production

  • Synthetic EPO can be taken by athletes to increase red blood cell count
  • More red blood cells mean more efficient transport of oxygen and glucose to muscles for respiration
• Side effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Increased viscosity (thickness) of the blood
  • Increased blood pressure