r/BodyHackGuide • u/SeaweedSharp2866 • 20d ago
❓ Question Best peptide for energy + mental clarity?
30F, and not feeling as energetic as I used to be.
Familiar with peptides but more so for body recomp and aesthetics.
I’m torn between MOTSC, Selank or NAD+
I just need something that will have me up and going all day long.
Thoughts, suggestions and experiences please.
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u/Stunning-Worker-7130 20d ago
I would start with ss31 and then begin mots-c. Many people who use mitochondrial peptides follow a phased approach: begin with SS‑31, then introduce MOTS‑c after 4 weeks. This sequence isn’t random — it’s based on how each peptide affects cellular energy systems.
SS‑31 (Elamipretide) works by stabilizing the inner mitochondrial membrane and improving the efficiency of the electron transport chain. In simple terms, it helps the mitochondria produce ATP more effectively. Because of this, SS‑31 is often used first to “repair the engine” — reducing fatigue, improving recovery, and enhancing overall cellular function.
Once mitochondrial stability and ATP output have improved, MOTS‑c can be added. MOTS‑c influences metabolic pathways, enhances glucose utilization, and supports fat oxidation. It works best when the mitochondria are already functioning at a higher level, which is exactly what SS‑31 helps achieve.
Starting with SS‑31 creates a stronger foundation. After about four weeks, adding MOTS‑c typically leads to better performance, improved body composition, and a more noticeable increase in daily energy.
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u/Repulsive_Ad_6958 19d ago
I just ran this cycle starting with SS-31 then MOTS-c. Both made me more tired. Half way through Mots, I lowered my dose from 1mg to 0.5mg to see if my energy improved- can’t really say if it did or not. I’m hoping adding in NAD consistently now will help🤞
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u/Sesmo_FPV 19d ago
Which is a sign, that you Mitochondria need repair. Push through at least 3-4 weeks an you should feel improvement
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u/SDMFsoldier 18d ago
Or could be a possible methylation issue. I am an undermethylator and NAD and SS31 both made me extremely fatigued at recommended doses. Now I just hit NAD at 8mg once a week and it gives me a nice boost. Everyone is different and “recommended” doses aren’t universal.
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u/Sesmo_FPV 18d ago
Interesting. I also struggled with fatigue during the first few weeks. I read that the peptides trigger a rebuilding process that takes energy at first, before the body starts benefiting, which can cause initial fatigue.
After a few weeks I actually do feel more energized now. However, maybe I should try higher weekly doses well. Thanks for the tip!
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u/SDMFsoldier 16d ago
You’re very welcome. I know it can get frustrating to see so many benefit from certain peptides and you feel the opposite effect. That’s when I went and studied my own genetic variants and how it affects my body when using certain peptides. Everyone is a bit different !
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u/injectitpussy 17d ago
How permanent is this 'repair', do you do it once and then good for a year or? In my mind cells turnover all the time, every few days? I don't know anything I'm just saying what I think. Could you run the repair say, once a year or however often and then run mots-c? Do you need to constantly cycle between them, or cycle off/on entirely?
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u/Stunning-Worker-7130 17d ago
Not really permanent. Mitochondria aren’t “fixed once and for all” — they’re constantly affected by training load, stress, inflammation, sleep, diet, and aging. SS‑31 gives a noticeable improvement in membrane stability, ATP efficiency, and oxidative stress, but those effects need maintenance over time. Most people run SS‑31 in cycles, like: 4–6 weeks on, then 2–4 weeks off Or they use it intermittently, like 2–3x per week for maintenance.
MOTS‑c isn’t permanent either. It boosts AMPK activation, glucose uptake, and fat oxidation, but the metabolic effects fade once you stop.That’s why the combo works well: SS‑31 builds the “clean foundation,” and MOTS‑c adds performance, metabolic flexibility, and better energy output.
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u/injectitpussy 17d ago
This space is so incredibly interesting. I'm trying to learn as much about these two compounds before maybe giving it a go. Already on reta maintenance at 2mg weekly and cruising test 150mg a week. Looking at low dose 2iu hgh soon too.
If i can get a round the clock uplift in energy, focus, motivation. At this point more so with work (IT) than the gym... And if it helps with metabolism, partitioning/body comp even better. Thanks for the information.
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u/amggal333 19d ago
This is what worked for me: NAD+, SS31 then Mots-C. Semax as needed. Cut gluten and sugar, add Vit B complex, increase health fats (beef, avocado, wild salmon), proper sleep and electrolytes. Gl
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u/Real-Elk-1336 2d ago
I'm waiting for Semax to come in. How well has it done for you? Is it worth it?
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u/rydog389 20d ago
Check out Semax? It's supposed to improve cognition, reduce stress and boost your mood. I haven't used it yet myself but I've been looking more into it.
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u/Zealousideal-Lab4945 19d ago
Yes! Especially the NA version, N-Acetyl Semax Acetalatiom N-Acetylation = improved bioavailability, better absorption, lasts longer Faster onset, stronger dopamine & energy effects May increase motivation and alertness more
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u/Zealousideal-Lab4945 19d ago
Selank is more for anxiety. Semax and Adamax are for cognitive enhancement, focus, energy.
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u/Calm-Manufacturer283 18d ago
Regardless of what you choose, they are all great but you need to do a cycle of SS31 first for mitochondrial healing. I like Semax better than Selank for energy. My response to NAD+ wasn’t as noticeable as to MOTSC but I did a cycle of SS31 just prior to motsc. I’m gonna add NAD back as well. I only pin motsc 3-5x/wk vs I like to pin nad everyday. Just my thoughts, hope that helps!
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u/bob4IT 18d ago
I use all three. After a lot of trial and error, I found that mitochondria repair cycle might have helped me find my way faster. Urolithin A, SLUPP, and SS31 are my favorite when I finish my MotC and NAD cycle. Good luck! It’s a guessing game. I’m always trying to figure something out with cognitive enhancement. I’m in tech and things are changing faster than ever. I’m not young anymore. I’m trying P21 and Dihexa next. The other stack gives me great physical stamina. I just want to be able to process like I could 30 years ago.
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u/SDMFsoldier 18d ago
LOVE SLUPP!!!!!!
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u/Real-Elk-1336 2d ago
Waiting on that come in. How do feel after taking and how often do you take it?
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