SARMs – the perfect muscle builder and cutter
SARMs: What Are They and Why Are They So Popular?
In recent years, SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) have become one of the most popular supplement categories. These non-steroidal compounds bind to androgen receptors in various tissues, helping to promote lean muscle mass and strength gains. The best SARMs also aid in fat reduction and bone tissue mineralization. But are they safe? Do they have side effects? And how exactly do they work? Let’s explore.
What are SARMs?
SARMs were first discovered in the 1990s by accident when Professor James T. Dalton was researching treatments for prostate cancer. While not intended to enhance performance, he stumbled upon a molecule now known as mandarine. Although it wasn’t effective against prostate cancer, it did stimulate noticeable muscle growth. Today, SARMs are recognized for their ability to increase muscle mass and strength, reduce fat, and improve overall performance—all without the prostate growth side effects associated with anabolic steroids. They are sometimes used in medical treatments for conditions like muscle atrophy and cancer, providing anabolic benefits without harming the body.
Types of SARMs
SARMs can be categorized based on their primary effects:
- For Muscle Mass Gains: SARMs like RAD-140, LGD-4033, and Andarine S4 are effective for bulking.
- For Strength Gains: MK-2866 (Ostarine) is commonly used to boost strength.
- For Lean Muscle and Fat Reduction: GW-1516 and MK-677 are often used to build lean muscle while reducing fat.
The Best SARMs for Muscle Mass
- LGD-4033 (Ligandrol): Known for its potent anabolic effects, LGD-4033 is one of the most potent SARMs for muscle growth. It helps build lean muscle mass while accelerating fat loss. Typically, users take 22 mg daily in short cycles or as little as 4 mg in extended dosing.
- RAD-140 (Testolone): Often considered a safer alternative to synthetic testosterone, RAD-140 supports muscle growth without affecting the prostate. It helps burn fat and develop lean muscle mass, with recommended doses of 12-20 mg daily over 10-14 weeks.
- Andarine S4: A potent SARM that promotes muscle mass and strength development. With a short half-life of around 5 hours, it is often split into multiple daily doses of 40-75 mg. This SARM is known for making muscles appear fuller and more defined.
SARMs for Strength Gains
- MK-2866 (Ostarine): Originally developed to treat osteoporosis and other muscle-wasting diseases, Ostarine is widely used by athletes to improve muscle strength. It also supports muscle reduction and growth, making it a favourite among endurance athletes such as runners and cyclists.
SARMs for Lean Muscle and Fat Reduction
- GW-1516 (Cardarine): Popular among endurance athletes, Cardarine helps promote the development of slow-twitch muscle fibres and reduces excess body fat. It preserves muscle protein while eliminating unwanted fat tissue.
- MK-677 (Ibutamoren): This compound boosts growth hormone levels, promoting muscle growth, fat loss, and the regeneration of muscle fibres. It has many benefits, from improving energy metabolism to supporting immune function.
Are SARMs Steroids?
Though SARMs offer many of the benefits associated with anabolic steroids, they are not the same. SARMs lack the methyl group that causes liver damage in steroids. They also don’t block the HPTA (Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis) and do not convert into estrogen, making them safer and free from common steroid side effects like liver damage, acne, and hypertension. Moreover, SARMs are taken orally and are legal to possess, unlike steroids.
However, SARMs can still cause issues like mood disorders or insomnia, so it’s essential to choose high-quality products from reliable sources. Some supplements marketed as SARMs may not contain SARMs at all and could include illegal substances that carry harmful side effects.
