The Core Difference: Supplements vs. PEDs
To answer the question, "Are you still natty if you take supplements?", we must first understand what 'natty' actually means. 'Natty' is short for natural, and in the fitness world, it signifies building a physique without the use of illegal or banned performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). This includes substances like anabolic steroids, human growth hormone (HGH), and SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators). Legal, over-the-counter supplements such as protein powder and creatine are considered acceptable tools to support natural training and recovery. The distinction is not between 'food' and 'powder,' but rather between what supports the body's natural processes and what artificially overloads or alters them. Natural bodybuilding federations, like the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), enforce these standards through strict drug testing.
Creatine: A Cornerstone for Natural Lifters
Creatine is perhaps one of the most common supplements associated with bodybuilding, and its use is a non-issue within the natural community. Your body produces creatine naturally, and it is also found in foods like red meat and fish. Supplementing with creatine simply helps to fully saturate your muscles' creatine stores, providing more energy (in the form of ATP) for high-intensity exercise and leading to improved strength and power. Because it enhances what your body does naturally, it is not considered a PED and is explicitly allowed in drug-tested competitions.
The Role of Protein Powders
Protein powder is another staple that does not affect one's natty status. It is a concentrated source of protein derived from whole food sources, such as whey from milk or protein from peas, soy, or rice. Its primary benefit is convenience, helping athletes meet their high daily protein intake requirements for muscle repair and growth, especially around workouts. There is no difference between the protein from a chicken breast and the protein from a whey shake in terms of its 'naturalness.' It simply makes consuming adequate protein easier and more efficient.
Other Common 'Natty' Supplements
In addition to creatine and protein, many other supplements are perfectly acceptable for natural athletes. These include:
- Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Used for muscle recovery and to prevent muscle breakdown.
- Multivitamins and Minerals: To ensure all essential nutrients are covered, filling potential gaps in the diet.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: For overall health, inflammation reduction, and joint support.
- Natural Pre-workout Ingredients: Such as caffeine from green tea extract or beetroot powder for improved blood flow, rather than synthetic, high-stimulant blends.
Natty vs. Enhanced: A Comparative Look
To further clarify the difference, a comparison table highlights the core distinctions between the two approaches to bodybuilding.
| Feature | Natural Bodybuilding (Natty) | Enhanced Bodybuilding (Non-Natty) |
|---|---|---|
| Methods Used | Training, nutrition, legal supplements (e.g., creatine, protein). | Training, nutrition, banned PEDs (e.g., steroids, HGH). |
| Pace of Gains | Slower, limited by genetic potential and natural hormonal balance. | Significantly faster, as PEDs override natural limits and accelerate growth. |
| Sustainability | Sustainable, focusing on long-term health and a consistent lifestyle. | Often unsustainable; progress is dependent on drug cycles and can have long-term side effects. |
| Health Risks | Minimal, primarily focused on overall wellness and promoting good health. | Potential for serious health risks associated with PED use, including organ damage and hormonal imbalances. |
| Competition | Compete in drug-tested federations (e.g., INBF, WNBF). | Compete in untested federations, where drug use is common. |
| Integrity | Integrity and honest effort are central to the philosophy, celebrating what the natural body can achieve. | Authenticity is often questioned; the focus is on maximal size and aesthetics, not a natural process. |
Navigating the Grey Areas
While most common supplements are clearly in the 'natty' category, some products require closer scrutiny. The rise of supplements containing proprietary blends, obscure ingredients, or unverified claims means that due diligence is necessary. For competitive natural bodybuilders, it is critical to consult the specific rules of their federation and use third-party tested products to ensure no banned substances are inadvertently consumed. Websites like GlobalDRO can also be helpful for checking the status of specific ingredients or medications. The core principle remains that if a supplement artificially alters your hormonal profile or contains banned compounds, it is not compliant with the natural standard.
Conclusion: Embracing the Natural Path
The simple answer is that yes, you are still natty if you take supplements. The fear that supplements negate a natural status is a misconception that conflates dietary aids with illegal performance-enhancing drugs. The natural path is defined by a commitment to hard work, smart training, disciplined nutrition, and using legal supplements to complement, not override, the body's natural potential. It is a journey of integrity, longevity, and celebrating authentic strength. The impressive physiques achieved by natural bodybuilders are a testament to the power of consistency and dedication, a far more sustainable and healthy approach to fitness.
For more information on natural bodybuilding standards, consult organizations like the WNBF.
