MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide that has attracted attention in the health and bodybuilding fields. Its name derive from the ORF of mitochondrial 12S rRNA-c. Recent studies have shown that MOTS-c plays an important role in regulating metabolism, improving physical function and promoting healthy aging.
Understand MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a small peptide composed of 16 amino acids that was only recently discovered. It is produced naturally by mitochondria and has been shown to play a role in metabolic regulation. Unlike other peptides and hormones that act on cell membrane receptors, MOTS-c acts inside the cell, influencing metabolic pathways.
Studies have shown that MOTS-c can significantly reduce the level of pro-inflammatory factors, increase anti-inflammatory factors, and improve glucose homeostasis. In humans, MOTS-c levels in skeletal muscle and blood circulation are elevated after exercise, suggesting that MOTS-c is a mitochondria-derived peptide induced by skeletal muscle exercise. A growing number of human studies demonstrate the role of MOTS-c in regulating metabolism, treating obesity and diabetes, longevity, and cardiovascular disease.
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The benefits of MOTS-c in bodybuilding
Increase endurance and performance
The study subjects had an 11.9-fold increase in endogenous MOTS-c levels in their bones after exercise, and this increase persisted for up to four hours after exercise. At the same time, blood circulating MOTS-c levels increased 1.6-fold during exercise and 1.5-fold after exercise, then returned to baseline levels four hours later. Accordingly, through the use of exogenous MOTS-c, it can be used as a sports simulator to stimulate and mediate the physiological response of exercise, so that people with limited exercise can also get similar effects as exercise, so as to obtain sports benefits, including accelerating metabolism, improving athletic performance, improving their own endurance, and allowing users to train harder and longer.
Boost metabolism
MOTS-c was found to improve metabolic function by activating AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) pathway. AMPK is a key energy sensor in cells that helps regulate energy balance. By activating this pathway, MOTS-c can enhance glucose uptake and utilization, thereby improving endurance and energy levels during exercise.
Weight loss
By increasing metabolic efficiency, MOTS-c can promote fat loss. It increases the body’s ability to use fat as a fuel source, which is beneficial for bodybuilders to reduce body fat percentage while maintaining lean muscle mass.
Improve insulin sensitivity
MOTS-c promotes glucose entry into cells to participate in glycolysis by activating AMPK pathway, which can improve skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity and inhibit diet-induced weight gain and insulin resistance.
For bodybuilders, this is essential for muscle growth and recovery. Better insulin sensitivity allows muscles to take in nutrients more efficiently, resulting in improved muscle protein synthesis and reduced fat storage.
Muscle protection
During periods of caloric deprivation or high-intensity training, muscle preservation is crucial. MOTS-c helps maintain muscle mass by improving metabolic flexibility and ensuring that muscles get enough nutrients.
Healthy aging
One of the signs of aging is the gradual disruption of metabolic levels, which can inhibit the body’s normal physiological functions. The aging process will lead to a decrease in the level of MOTS-c, and the use of MOTS-c can improve the expression of mitochondrial protection genes, which is conducive to delaying aging.
Bodybuilders are often concerned with maintaining good performance as they get older. MOTS-c has shown potential to promote healthy aging by protecting cells from oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function.
The dosage of MOTS-c bodybuilding
MOTS-c is usually for injection. This method ensures that the peptide goes directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, where can break it down and become ineffective. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thighs, or any area with subcutaneous fat.
The optimal dose of MOTS-c depends on personal goals, body weight, and tolerance. However, a common starting point is 10 mg per day, which can adjust base on reactions and specific goals.
A typical MOTS-c cycle lasts four to six weeks. It is important to monitor the body’s response and adjust the dose or cycle length accordingly. After completing one cycle, rest for 4 to 6 weeks would prevent desensitization.
Conclusion
MOTS-c offers a promising option for bodybuilders seeking to boost their performance, improve metabolism, and promote healthy aging. It improves insulin sensitivity, increases endurance, and promotes fat loss, which makes it a valuable addition to bodybuilders. MOTS-c plays an important role in the regulation of cardiovascular, diabetes, exercise and longevity, and benefits bodybuilders’ overall health.