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SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) have become immensely popular in the fitness and bodybuilding world. Many influencers promote them as the holy grail for muscle growth. They claim that SARMs stimulate muscle growth just like anabolic steroids do, but without the notorious side effects. But is this really true? Do SARMs work for muscle building? Absolutely! Are they completely free of side effects? Certainly not!
Here’s an honest look at SARMs and what you really need to know.
SARMs, or Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators, were originally developed as medications to combat muscle wasting and osteoporosis. Researchers dreamed of a compound that could enhance muscle mass and bone density without the harmful side effects associated with anabolic steroids. These substances promised a precision approach: SARMs would selectively stimulate specific androgen receptors, thereby triggering muscle growth without completely disrupting hormonal balance.
Starting in the 1990s, SARMs were initially tested on animals and later in clinical studies involving humans. The results were promising: these molecules selectively activated receptors involved in muscle growth.
In a fascinating study led by Dr. Basaria, the SARM LGD-4033, better known as Ligandrol, was tested on rats, and the results were telling. The trial demonstrated that Ligandrol significantly increased the muscle mass and bone density of the animals - without the severe side effects typically associated with anabolic steroids, such as liver damage or hormonal imbalance.
These properties not only made SARMs valuable for medical research but also immediately caught the attention of the fitness and bodybuilding community. For athletes and bodybuilders, it sounded ideal - the benefits of muscle growth without the typical side effects of steroids. SARMs appeared to herald a new era, both in medical science and at the gym.
SARMs work by selectively binding to androgen receptors in specific tissues, such as muscle and bone tissue. This activation triggers anabolic processes, leading to an increase in muscle mass and strength.
Dr. Dalton, a renowned researcher in SARM development:
"Selective androgen receptor modulators offer the potential for muscle growth and recovery with a lower risk of side effects compared to steroids."
There are several SARMs that have been extensively studied for their unique properties and benefits. Here are a few of the most well-known:
Ostarine is perhaps the most popular SARM and is often used for both muscle building and fat loss. Studies have shown that Ostarine, when combined with strength training, can lead to a significant increase in muscle mass.
Ligandrol is one of the strongest SARMs and is frequently used for intensive muscle building. Clinical studies indicate that Ligandrol aids in muscle mass development, even at low doses. In a study by Boston University, it was discovered that participants who took Ligandrol gained an average of 1.5 kg of additional muscle mass over a few weeks.
Andarine is a milder SARM often utilized for fat loss and preserving muscle mass during a caloric deficit. It has also been studied for its benefits on bone health.
But if something seems too good to be true, it usually is. Many athletes who have used SARMs have experienced this firsthand.
First, the production and sale of SARMs are unregulated, much like anabolic steroids, meaning users often don’t know what they are actually taking. That alone is a risk.
Second, a wide range of side effects has been reported by athletes using SARMs. Perhaps not as severe as with anabolic steroids, but sometimes serious enough to reconsider their use altogether.
Here are some examples of side effects reported by SARM users:
Long-term use of SARMs can suppress the body’s natural testosterone production, resulting in hormonal imbalances and symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, and loss of libido.
Yes, this is similar to anabolic steroids. Increased estrogen levels due to SARMs use can lead to gynecomastia (breast development in men), while women may experience irregular menstruation or even miss periods due to hormonal fluctuations. And last but not least, testicular atrophy in men is also a reported side effect of SARM use.
The use of SARMs has been associated with visual side effects, such as night blindness and a yellow tint in the visual field. These side effects may diminish when use is discontinued, but they remain concerning. Additionally, SARMs can sometimes cause insomnia or worsen sleep quality, which is detrimental to recovery and overall health.
Yes, despite being considered safer than anabolic steroids, there is evidence that some SARMs can cause hepatotoxicity (liver damage), especially with long-term use or high doses.
Dr. Shalender Bhasin, professor and endocrinologist:
“While SARMs show potential to selectively promote muscle growth, their long-term effects remain unclear, and we know they can carry risks similar to those of anabolic steroids.”
Although SARMs were initially presented as the "safe" alternative to anabolic steroids, the reality is far more nuanced. The selective androgen receptor modulators promise targeted muscle growth and fat loss without the severe side effects of traditional steroids. However, more and more reports are emerging that highlight the unwanted and sometimes bizarre side effects of SARMs.
So, if you choose to use SARMs, start with a low dose. Don’t use them for extended periods. And better yet: don’t use them at all! But Health & Science Magazine is not here to be the gym police. We’re just here to inform you. The choice is yours to make.
