What are peptides commonly referred to as in the body?

Peptides are commonly referred to as proteins in the body because they are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. When two or more amino acids are linked together through peptide bonds, they form a peptide. If the chain is long enough, it is typically classified as a protein. Thus, peptides serve a crucial role in various biological functions, including signaling pathways, tissue repair, and muscle building.

Vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates each serve different roles in the body. Vitamins are organic compounds that are essential in small quantities for various metabolic processes; minerals are inorganic elements needed for various bodily functions; and carbohydrates are organic compounds that provide energy. While all are vital to health, they do not share the specific structural and functional characteristics that define peptides. Thus, referring to peptides as proteins is the most accurate and scientifically recognized classification.