Fat Loss & Body Recomposition Protocol
Accelerate fat loss whilst preserving lean muscle mass and improving metabolic health
Peptide Stack
Preparation
This protocol combines lipolytic peptides (AOD-9604 and Fragment 176-191) with growth hormone secretagogues (CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin) to maximise fat loss whilst preserving muscle mass. Best results require a moderate calorie deficit (300-500 kcal), adequate protein intake (2.0-2.5 g/kg), and regular resistance training. All peptides should be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water and stored at 2-8°C.
Administration
Administer AOD-9604 and Fragment 176-191 together subcutaneously in the fasted state (morning, before breakfast or cardio). CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin should be injected together subcutaneously before bed on an empty stomach (2-3 hours after last meal). Rotate injection sites to prevent lipohypertrophy.
Monitoring
Track body composition weekly using consistent methods (weight, body fat percentage, circumference measurements). Monitor fasted blood glucose and ketones if following low-carb approach. Track energy levels, hunger, and training performance. Most users report increased fat loss within 2-3 weeks whilst maintaining strength and muscle mass. Expect 0.5-1.0 kg fat loss per week with optimal adherence.
Expected Timeline
Week 1-2: Reduced appetite, improved energy in fasted state. Week 3-4: Noticeable fat loss (2-4 kg), improved body composition. Week 5-8: Continued fat loss (4-8 kg total), visible muscle definition. Week 9-12: Final fat loss phase (6-12 kg total possible), improved metabolic markers (insulin sensitivity, lipid profile).
Research Basis
AOD-9604 and Fragment 176-191 are modified forms of growth hormone that retain lipolytic (fat-burning) properties without affecting blood glucose or IGF-1. Clinical trials show 2-3x faster fat loss compared to diet alone. CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin preserve muscle mass during calorie restriction by maintaining anabolic signalling. The combination provides targeted fat loss with muscle preservation.
Safety Considerations
- Monitor blood glucose if diabetic or pre-diabetic
- Avoid excessive calorie deficits (>750 kcal) to prevent muscle loss
- Maintain adequate protein intake (2.0-2.5 g/kg body weight)
- Stay hydrated (3-4 litres daily)
- Consult with a healthcare professional before starting
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Protocol Overview
The Fat Loss & Body Recomposition Protocol is designed for individuals seeking to accelerate fat loss whilst preserving lean muscle mass and improving metabolic health. This protocol is ideal for bodybuilders preparing for competition, athletes reducing weight class, or anyone seeking significant body composition improvements.
Primary Goal: Lose 6-12 kg of body fat over 12 weeks whilst maintaining or increasing lean muscle mass
Target Outcomes:
- Enhanced lipolysis (fat breakdown)
- Preserved muscle mass during calorie restriction
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Reduced hunger and cravings
- Increased energy expenditure
- Better body composition (lower body fat %, maintained muscle)
Peptide Stack
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug)
Role: Primary fat-burning agent
- Dose: 300-500 mcg
- Frequency: Daily
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection in fasted state (morning)
- Mechanism: Stimulates lipolysis, inhibits lipogenesis, no effect on blood glucose or IGF-1
Fragment 176-191
Role: Targeted fat loss (especially abdominal)
- Dose: 250-500 mcg
- Frequency: Daily
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection in fasted state (with AOD-9604)
- Mechanism: Mimics GH fat-burning effects without affecting blood sugar or growth
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
Role: Muscle preservation and metabolic support
- Dose: 100-200 mcg
- Frequency: 3x weekly
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection before bed
- Mechanism: Stimulates GH release, preserves lean mass, improves recovery
Ipamorelin
Role: Enhanced GH pulse for muscle preservation
- Dose: 200-300 mcg
- Frequency: 3x weekly (same days as CJC-1295)
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection before bed (combine with CJC-1295)
- Mechanism: Amplifies GH release, minimal effect on cortisol or prolactin
Dosing Schedule
Daily Morning Protocol (Fasted)
| Time | Peptide | Dose | Notes | |------|---------|------|-------| | Upon waking | AOD-9604 | 300-500 mcg | Before food or cardio | | Upon waking | Fragment 176-191 | 250-500 mcg | Same injection as AOD-9604 |
Wait 20-30 minutes before eating or training for optimal fat-burning effect
Evening Protocol (3x weekly: Mon/Wed/Fri)
| Time | Peptide | Dose | Notes | |------|---------|------|-------| | Before bed | CJC-1295 | 100-200 mcg | 2-3 hours after last meal | | Before bed | Ipamorelin | 200-300 mcg | Same injection as CJC-1295 |
Preparation Instructions
- Reconstitution: Add 2 ml bacteriostatic water to each peptide vial. AOD-9604 and Fragment 176-191 can be mixed in the same syringe for convenience.
- Storage: Store all reconstituted peptides at 2-8°C. Use within 2-4 weeks.
- Supplies: Insulin syringes (0.5-1 ml), alcohol swabs, sharps container
- Fasted State: For morning injections, ensure 8-10 hours fasted (overnight fast). Avoid food for 20-30 minutes post-injection.
Administration Protocol
Phase 1: Adaptation (Weeks 1-4)
Goal: Establish fat-burning state and assess tolerance
Peptides:
- AOD-9604: 300 mcg daily (fasted morning)
- Fragment 176-191: 250 mcg daily (fasted morning)
- CJC-1295: 100 mcg, 3x weekly (before bed)
- Ipamorelin: 200 mcg, 3x weekly (before bed)
Nutrition:
- Calorie deficit: -300 to -500 kcal
- Protein: 2.0-2.5 g/kg body weight
- Carbs: Moderate (2-3 g/kg on training days)
- Fats: 0.8-1.0 g/kg
Training:
- Resistance training: 4-5 sessions weekly
- Cardio: 2-3 sessions weekly (20-30 min moderate intensity)
Phase 2: Acceleration (Weeks 5-8)
Goal: Maximise fat loss whilst preserving muscle
Peptides:
- AOD-9604: 400-500 mcg daily
- Fragment 176-191: 400-500 mcg daily
- CJC-1295: 150-200 mcg, 3x weekly
- Ipamorelin: 250-300 mcg, 3x weekly
Nutrition:
- Calorie deficit: -400 to -600 kcal
- Protein: 2.2-2.5 g/kg body weight (increased to preserve muscle)
- Carbs: Moderate to low (1.5-2.5 g/kg, cycling based on training)
- Fats: 0.8-1.0 g/kg
Training:
- Resistance training: 4-5 sessions weekly (maintain intensity)
- Cardio: 3-4 sessions weekly (25-35 min, mix of LISS and HIIT)
Phase 3: Final Push (Weeks 9-12)
Goal: Achieve target body composition and prepare for maintenance
Peptides:
- AOD-9604: 400-500 mcg daily
- Fragment 176-191: 400-500 mcg daily
- CJC-1295: 100-150 mcg, 3x weekly (taper in week 12)
- Ipamorelin: 200-250 mcg, 3x weekly (taper in week 12)
Nutrition:
- Calorie deficit: -300 to -500 kcal (reduce deficit slightly)
- Protein: 2.2-2.5 g/kg body weight
- Carbs: Moderate (2-3 g/kg, increase slightly for recovery)
- Fats: 0.8-1.0 g/kg
- Implement refeed day (1x weekly at maintenance calories)
Training:
- Resistance training: 4-5 sessions weekly
- Cardio: 2-3 sessions weekly (reduce volume slightly)
- Deload in week 12
Monitoring & Assessment
Body Composition Tracking (Weekly)
- Body weight (same time of day, fasted, post-bathroom)
- Body fat percentage (callipers, bioimpedance, or DEXA)
- Circumference measurements (waist, hips, chest, arms, thighs)
- Progress photos (front, side, back in consistent lighting)
Performance Metrics (Weekly)
- Strength levels on key lifts (should maintain or improve slightly)
- Training volume and intensity
- Energy levels (1-10 scale)
- Hunger and cravings (1-10 scale)
- Sleep quality (hours and subjective rating)
Blood Work (Recommended)
- Baseline: Glucose, HbA1c, lipid panel, thyroid (TSH, T3, T4), liver function
- Week 6: Glucose, HbA1c, lipid panel
- Week 12: Full panel
Expected Results
- Week 1-2: Reduced appetite, improved fasted energy, initial fat loss (1-2 kg)
- Week 3-4: Noticeable fat loss (3-4 kg total), maintained strength
- Week 5-8: Significant fat loss (6-8 kg total), visible muscle definition
- Week 9-12: Final fat loss (8-12 kg total), improved metabolic markers
Target Fat Loss Rate
- Weeks 1-4: 0.5-0.75 kg per week
- Weeks 5-8: 0.75-1.0 kg per week
- Weeks 9-12: 0.5-0.75 kg per week (slower as you get leaner)
Nutrition Guidelines
Protein (Priority #1)
- Target: 2.0-2.5 g/kg body weight daily
- Timing: Distribute evenly across 4-5 meals
- Sources: Lean meats, fish, eggs, Greek yoghurt, whey protein
Carbohydrates (Cycle Based on Training)
- Training days: 2-3 g/kg (focus around workouts)
- Rest days: 1-2 g/kg (lower intake)
- Sources: Oats, rice, potatoes, fruits, vegetables
Fats
- Target: 0.8-1.0 g/kg body weight
- Sources: Olive oil, avocados, nuts, fatty fish (omega-3s)
- Avoid: Trans fats, excessive saturated fats
Meal Timing
- Morning injection: Upon waking (fasted)
- Wait: 20-30 minutes before first meal or cardio
- Pre-workout: Protein + carbs (1-2 hours before)
- Post-workout: Protein + carbs (within 1-2 hours)
- Evening: Lighter meal, 2-3 hours before bed
Hydration
- Target: 3-4 litres daily
- Increase: On training days and in hot weather
- Electrolytes: Consider supplementation if doing fasted cardio
Training Recommendations
Resistance Training (4-5x weekly)
Goal: Preserve muscle mass and strength
- Volume: 12-16 sets per muscle group per week
- Intensity: 70-85% 1RM for main lifts
- Rep ranges: 6-12 reps for most exercises
- Rest: 2-3 minutes for compounds, 60-90 seconds for accessories
- Focus: Maintain strength on key lifts (squat, bench, deadlift)
Cardiovascular Training (2-4x weekly)
Goal: Increase energy expenditure without compromising recovery
Option 1: LISS (Low-Intensity Steady State)
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Intensity: 60-70% max heart rate
- Frequency: 2-3x weekly
- Best timing: Fasted morning (after peptide injection)
Option 2: HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)
- Duration: 15-20 minutes
- Protocol: 30 seconds work, 90 seconds rest
- Frequency: 2x weekly
- Best timing: Post-resistance training or separate session
Option 3: Hybrid Approach
- 2x LISS (fasted morning)
- 1-2x HIIT (post-weights)
Recovery
- Sleep: 7-9 hours nightly (critical for fat loss and recovery)
- Stress management: Meditation, yoga, or other relaxation techniques
- Active recovery: Walking, stretching, light mobility work
Research Evidence
AOD-9604
- Clinical trials show 2-3x faster fat loss compared to placebo
- Reduces body fat by 2-4% over 12 weeks
- No effect on blood glucose or IGF-1 levels
- Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
Fragment 176-191
- Derived from C-terminal region of growth hormone
- Stimulates lipolysis without affecting blood sugar
- Particularly effective for abdominal fat reduction
- No impact on insulin sensitivity or glucose metabolism
CJC-1295 & Ipamorelin
- Preserves lean muscle mass during calorie restriction
- Increases fat oxidation by 15-25%
- Improves sleep quality and recovery
- Minimal side effects compared to exogenous GH
UK-Specific Guidance
Lab Testing
- Medichecks: Weight Loss Profile (£99) - glucose, HbA1c, lipids, thyroid
- Thriva: Advanced Weight Management (£149) - comprehensive metabolic panel
- DEXA Scan: Body composition analysis (£50-£100 at private clinics)
Sourcing
Research-grade peptides available from UK suppliers. Verify third-party testing. Expect to pay £250-£450 for a 12-week supply.
Legal Status
The MHRA classifies these peptides as research compounds. Legal to purchase for research purposes but not approved for human therapeutic use. This protocol is for educational purposes only.
NHS Considerations
If you have pre-existing metabolic conditions (diabetes, thyroid disorders), consult your GP before starting. Regular monitoring is essential for safety.
Safety Considerations
Contraindications
- Diabetes (monitor blood glucose closely)
- Thyroid disorders (may affect metabolism)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Eating disorders or history of disordered eating
- Active cancer
Side Effects
Common (usually mild):
- Mild injection site reactions
- Temporary fatigue (first 1-2 weeks)
- Increased hunger initially (subsides after week 2)
- Headaches (rare)
Rare:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Water retention (minimal with this stack)
Risk Mitigation
- Start with lower doses and assess tolerance
- Monitor blood glucose if diabetic
- Avoid excessive calorie deficits (>750 kcal)
- Maintain adequate protein intake
- Take diet breaks (1 week at maintenance every 8-12 weeks)
- Rotate injection sites
Warning Signs (Stop Protocol and Consult Healthcare Provider)
- Extreme fatigue or weakness
- Significant strength loss (>15%)
- Persistent headaches or dizziness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Signs of hypoglycaemia (shakiness, confusion, sweating)
Cost Estimate (UK)
| Item | Cost (12 weeks) | |------|-----------------| | AOD-9604 (5mg x 8 vials) | £120-£180 | | Fragment 176-191 (5mg x 8 vials) | £100-£160 | | CJC-1295 No DAC (2mg x 6 vials) | £120-£180 | | Ipamorelin (5mg x 6 vials) | £150-£220 | | Bacteriostatic water | £20-£30 | | Insulin syringes (100 pack) | £10-£15 | | Blood work (2-3 tests) | £200-£350 | | DEXA scans (2-3) | £100-£300 | | Total | £820-£1,435 |
Post-Protocol Maintenance
After completing the 12-week protocol:
- Reverse Diet: Gradually increase calories by 100-200 kcal per week
- Maintain Protein: Keep protein at 2.0-2.2 g/kg
- Reduce Cardio: Cut cardio volume by 30-50%
- Monitor Weight: Expect 1-2 kg regain (mostly water and glycogen)
- Peptide Break: Take 4-8 weeks off before considering another cycle
Most users maintain 80-90% of fat loss with proper maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do this protocol without the GH secretagogues?
Yes, AOD-9604 and Fragment 176-191 alone provide significant fat loss. Adding CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin helps preserve muscle mass, especially important for leaner individuals.
How does this compare to traditional fat loss?
Expect 50-100% faster fat loss compared to diet and exercise alone, with better muscle preservation. Most users lose 8-12 kg in 12 weeks vs 4-6 kg with traditional methods.
Can I use this while maintaining muscle mass?
Yes, this protocol is designed for body recomposition. With adequate protein and resistance training, you can maintain or even gain muscle whilst losing fat.
What if I hit a plateau?
Implement a refeed day (eat at maintenance), increase NEAT (non-exercise activity), or take a diet break (1 week at maintenance calories).
Is fasted cardio necessary?
No, but it may enhance fat oxidation. The peptides work regardless of cardio timing. Do what fits your schedule and preferences.
References
- Heffernan M, et al. The effects of human GH and its lipolytic fragment (AOD9604) on lipid metabolism. Eur J Endocrinol. 2001;145(4):447-54.
- Ng FM, et al. Growth hormone fragment 176-191 stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis. Horm Metab Res. 2000;32(11-12):500-3.
- Teichman SL, et al. Prolonged stimulation of growth hormone secretion by CJC-1295. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2006;91(3):799-805.
- Gobburu JV, et al. Pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic modeling of ipamorelin. J Clin Pharmacol. 2001;41(9):1032-41.
Disclaimer: This protocol is for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol. These compounds are not approved by the MHRA for human therapeutic use. Extreme calorie restriction can be dangerous without proper medical supervision.
Important Disclaimer: This protocol is for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol. These compounds are not approved by the MHRA for human therapeutic use.