Muscle-building supplements contain active ingredients that influence hormonal balance. Unlike anabolic steroids, they are not direct hormones or derivatives, but, as in the case of SARMs, can simulate hormonal effects by activating specific hormone receptors in the body. Some muscle-building supplements, such as prohormones, can also be converted into hormones in the body. Their interest for bodybuilders lies in the lower social stigma compared to anabolic steroids and the different legal regulations regarding possession and consumption. While anabolic steroids are illegal almost everywhere, muscle-building supplements are not banned outright in many countries, including Germany. Nevertheless, they are not suitable for beginners and should only be used by experienced athletes.
Prohormones: Precursors with anabolic effects
Prohormones are hormone precursors that are converted in the body into hormones with strong anabolic effects. Because enzymes control this process, the resulting hormonal flood is limited, making prohormones less effective at promoting muscle growth than anabolic steroids, but also milder in their side effects. However, some prohormones can be potent and have effects similar to those of oral steroids, which are accompanied by more severe side effects.
SARMs: Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators
SARMs selectively stimulate androgen receptors in the body, primarily in skeletal muscle. This promotes muscle growth without enhancing other bodily processes normally stimulated by high androgen levels. This selective effect makes SARMs less prone to side effects than anabolic steroids, although user reports suggest that SARMs are not free of side effects, especially at higher doses.
Legal situation and availability
The legal situation regarding muscle builders is complex. While prohormones were banned in the US under the Anabolic Steroid Control Act, they didn't disappear from the market because manufacturers modified the molecular chains to create new products. The legal situation with SARMs is even more unclear, as they are approved as experimental substances for animals in some countries. In Germany, possession in small quantities is permitted, although the exact definition of "small quantities" is subject to interpretation.
Purchasing Muscle Builders
When purchasing muscle builders, you should be aware that the supply of genuine prohormones and SARMs is limited due to the complex legal situation. While many online stores offer muscle builders, many of these products do not affect hormone levels. Authentic products in the "Extreme Muscle Builder" category deliver on their promises. Products from reputable sources and of good quality are very popular. Muscle builders offer a good option for rapid muscle building in a short time and for the joy of experimentation.
