Hey everyone, if you’ve been following my peptide experiences, you know I’m focused on finding ways to boost energy - particularly as a founder building JustPaid.ai Previously, I shared my own journey with MOTs-C, the mitochondrial peptide that’s helped me tap into greater stamina. Today, I’m highlighting insights from my close friend Lotte, a 34-year-old in Amsterdam who’s committed to weightlifting and power yoga with a consistent routine over the years. As the VP of Product at a fast-growing startup applying AI in agriculture, she’s no stranger to high demands, which made her even more curious when I mentioned MOTs-C as a potential source of youthful energy -she decided to try it. I’ve also resumed it myself, and it’s made a significant difference during my time in San Francisco.
Quick Refresher: What’s MOTS-C?
For those new to it, here’s a brief overview. MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide, a small protein fragment from mitochondrial DNA. It functions as an exercise mimetic, enhancing metabolism, endurance, and potentially longevity by optimizing energy production and stress responses. It supports fat metabolism, improved insulin sensitivity, and sustained performance. Research from sources like PubMed indicates it’s involved in regulating genes for antioxidants and metabolic stability, especially during exercise or stress. It’s intriguing, but remember: it’s primarily from preclinical studies, with no large-scale human trials available yet. Approach with care, and always consult a doctor before starting.
Lotte’s Experience: Enhanced Access to Built Strength
Lotte is someone I admire a ton—she’s ambitious, deeply dedicated to her health, career, and relationships, and she juggles it all with an impressively high emotional intelligence. She followed the same protocol as mine: 2.5mg doses, three times a week, for six weeks. The physical benefits became evident quickly. Here’s her account in her own words:
“I’ve been having the same workout routine for years, consisting of weightlifting and power yoga. Since starting MOTs-C I have noticed the obvious difference in my yoga practice. I do not feel like I have more strength, but like I have access to the strength I have build over the years. I suddenly turned into the person that adds extra push-ups to their chaturangas cause I just have the physical energy left that would like to be used. It is not like I am stronger, it is like I can more easily access strength and energy that is present in my body. I went out to a night of dancing to techno (sober), and I made 25,000 steps dancing in 5 hours. My friends wanted to go home but I felt like I could have made 10,000 steps more before I would have given going home a thought.”
Based on my experiences and discussions in online communities like Reddit, this aligns with MOTS-C’s role in improving mitochondrial function, making energy reserves more accessible. It essentially promotes fat oxidation and ATP production for prolonged activity.
Mentally, Lotte had been facing challenges before starting, which left her fatigued. Now, she notes: “The difference for me has been mostly physically. I’ve been having some mental hardship before I started the MOTs-C and that was making me very tired. I feel equally clear in my mental energy now as I usually do, but I do not know if my baseline shifted due to some struggles to deal with in life and so the difference is there as well.” This is anecdotal, but studies suggest MOTs-C may help with stress adaptation and cognitive clarity related to aging. Additionally, when illness affected those around her: “Additionally, some people around me fell sick with flu, and I have been avoiding it so far. Is it related? I will of course never know unless I do this for a way longer time.” It’s an interesting observation, and some reports link it to anti-inflammatory effects.
Potential Side Effects
No intervention is without considerations. Lotte experienced muscle cramps, which are unusual for her: “Some maybe side effects have been that I have experienced some muscle craps this week, which is very uncommon for me. It can be that I have just been overworking my muscles a bit due to feeling so energized.” She supplements with calcium, magnesium, and zinc, and researched: “I looked it up that my electrolytes maybe could be a bit out of balance due to the copper, cause the cramp. It was just starting yesterday tho, so I’m not worried about it if it stays away today.” It resolved quickly. From my perspective and community feedback, side effects tend to be minor, such as mild irritation or increased appetite, often from heightened activity. Literature doesn’t highlight severe issues, but with peptides, it’s wise to monitor for any imbalances. For those of us navigating mid-career demands, it’s appealing, but start gradually.
Continuing and Recommending
I asked her: “Well - now having the chance to access all that energy. Would you like to do MOTs-C for longer? Would you recommend it to someone you love?” She responded: “I would love to finish this cycle. I feel almost like there is a buzz running through my body that I cannot describe in any other way. I would definitely recommend.”
My Recent MOTs-C Experience: Managing the Founder Pace in SF
On that note, I’ve resumed MOTs-C, and it’s supporting me through a demanding schedule. I’ve been back in San Francisco since October 12th, and life here moves at a rapid pace. Starting with a 6 a.m. weightlifting session, followed by 10 hours focused on JustPaid.ai, and then attending two evening social or networking events - it’s intense. I’m not naturally outgoing; I prefer quieter settings and need time to recharge typically. But after restarting MOTs-C and allowing a week for it to take effect, I’ve noticed a renewed sense of youthfulness. No fatigue setbacks, just consistent energy that helps me maintain momentum in this founder environment. I’ll be here until November 13th, then returning to Amsterdam - if you’re a fellow founder or biohacker interested in connecting in person, I’d welcome the opportunity to meet.
For professionals over 30 maintaining rigorous schedules like Lotte’s or mine, this peptide may offer an advantage. That said, it’s still in research stages, not FDA-approved, and individual results vary. From our shared experiences, it supports those pursuing peak performance. Combine it with proper nutrition, rest, and medical guidance. This is a great place to discuss further - share your insights. What strategies do you use for sustained energy?
Disclaimer
This is not medical advice. The content on this Substack is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health or the use of peptides.
My experiences with peptides are personal and may not be typical. Individual results can vary widely based on personal health conditions, lifestyle, and other factors. Do not rely on my experiences as a guarantee of similar outcomes.
The information provided here does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by any regulatory authority, including the FDA or other health organizations. Some peptides may be experimental or not approved for general use.
I am not liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from the use or misuse of information shared on this Substack. Readers are solely responsible for their own actions and any decisions made based on this content.
The peptides discussed are for research purposes and may not be intended for human use. Please ensure compliance with all local laws and regulations regarding the purchase, possession, and use of peptides.
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