Understanding the 'Natty' vs. 'Un-natty' Distinction
In the fitness and bodybuilding community, being "natty" is a point of pride, signifying that an individual has built their physique using only natural methods. This means relying on a disciplined diet, consistent training, and legally available, non-hormonal supplements. These accepted supplements often include protein powder, creatine, and caffeine, which support performance and recovery within the body's natural physiological limits. The line between "natty" and "un-natty" is drawn at substances that artificially manipulate the body's endocrine system to force gains beyond what is naturally possible. While some may perceive this as a moral or ethical boundary, regulatory bodies like the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) enforce it with strict testing protocols.
Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS): The Original 'Un-natty' Agent
Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) are synthetic, man-made versions of the male hormone testosterone. These substances bind to androgen receptors in muscle cells, causing a massive and rapid increase in muscle protein synthesis. While effective for quickly building muscle and strength, they are notoriously non-selective and come with a range of severe health consequences.
- Cardiovascular Damage: AAS use can increase blood pressure, alter cholesterol levels, and lead to an enlarged heart, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Hormonal Imbalances: In men, this can lead to testicular shrinkage, low sperm count, and gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue). Women may experience voice deepening, clitoral enlargement, and hair growth.
- Liver and Kidney Toxicity: Oral steroids are particularly taxing on the liver, potentially causing damage or cancer. Long-term use can also lead to kidney damage.
- Mental Health Issues: Users can experience extreme mood swings, aggression, irritability, and depression.
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): The 'Safer' Illusion
SARMs emerged as a purported safer alternative to steroids, designed to selectively target androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue while minimizing effects on other organs like the prostate or liver. However, this perceived safety is misleading. No SARMs are approved by the FDA for human consumption, and they carry significant risks, especially when taken in high doses. All SARMs are prohibited at all times by WADA, regardless of the athlete's level of competition.
- Cardiovascular Risks: The FDA has issued warnings about the risk of heart attack and stroke associated with SARM use.
- Liver Injury: Despite claims of being liver-friendly, studies and case reports have linked SARMs to liver toxicity and acute liver failure.
- Testosterone Suppression: Many SARMs suppress natural testosterone production, leading to side effects like sexual dysfunction, decreased libido, and infertility. Post-cycle therapy (PCT) is often needed to help restore hormonal balance.
Prohormones: The Evolution into Controlled Substances
Prohormones are chemical compounds that are precursors to hormones. Once ingested, they are converted into active anabolic hormones like testosterone within the body through enzymatic processes, primarily in the liver. In the U.S., many prohormones were reclassified as Schedule III controlled substances by the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004, making their sale and possession illegal without a prescription. For competitive athletes, most prohormones are banned by WADA and are detectable in drug tests.
- Hormonal Disruption: As with steroids, prohormones can cause major hormonal disruptions, including unwanted estrogen conversion leading to gynecomastia.
- Liver Strain: Because of the metabolic conversion in the liver, prohormones place significant strain on the organ, posing risks of liver damage.
- Cardiovascular Side Effects: Prohormone use has been linked to negative effects on cholesterol levels and blood pressure, raising cardiovascular risk.
Other Banned Performance Enhancers
Beyond steroids, SARMs, and prohormones, numerous other substances are not considered "natty" and are prohibited by major sports bodies.
- Human Growth Hormone (HGH): While naturally occurring, synthetic HGH is used to increase muscle mass and reduce body fat, with risks including diabetes and joint pain.
- Insulin and IGF-1: Used for their powerful anabolic effects, but misuse can lead to dangerous hypoglycemia and an increased risk of cancer.
- Peptide Hormones: Growth Hormone Releasing Peptides (GHRPs) and other peptide hormones are used to stimulate the release of HGH and IGF-1, but are banned due to safety concerns and performance-enhancing properties.
Comparison of Performance-Enhancing Substances
| Feature | Anabolic Steroids (AAS) | Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) | Prohormones |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Synthetic testosterone mimics that bind to androgen receptors everywhere in the body. | Non-steroidal compounds that selectively bind to androgen receptors, primarily in muscle and bone. | Precursors converted into active hormones by the body's enzymes. |
| Effectiveness | Highly potent, with rapid and significant muscle growth. | Moderate and gradual muscle gains, less potent than steroids. | Variable effectiveness depending on the compound and user's metabolism. |
| Side Effects | Severe, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and major hormonal disruption. | Significant, including liver injury, hormonal suppression, and heart problems. | Substantial, including liver toxicity, hormonal imbalances, and cholesterol changes. |
| Legal Status | Controlled substance in the U.S.; illegal for non-medical use in many places. | Not FDA-approved for human use; sold for "research purposes". | Most were reclassified as controlled substances in the U.S. in 2004. |
| WADA Status | Prohibited at all times. | Prohibited at all times. | Most prohormones are prohibited at all times. |
The Risks and Rewards of Staying Natty
While the allure of rapid muscle growth from non-natty supplements is strong, the health risks are a sobering reality. The path of natural bodybuilding prioritizes long-term health and sustainable results. Consistency in training, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, adequate rest, and hydration are the foundations of true, lasting physique development. The gains may be slower, but they are yours, without the threat of life-altering side effects or the ethical compromise of a cheated physique. Focusing on fundamentals and smart supplementation with safe, legal products is the only way to build a genuinely "natty" physique.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice for Your Health
Ultimately, knowing which supplements are not considered natty is about more than just competitive rules; it's about making an informed decision for your long-term health. The substances discussed, from anabolic steroids to SARMs and prohormones, all come with real, scientifically documented health risks and are banned by major sports organizations like WADA. By understanding the dangers and focusing on the proven methods of consistent training and proper nutrition, you can achieve your fitness goals safely and sustainably. The "natty" route is not a shortcut, but it is the healthiest and most honest path to a better physique.
Common Natty Supplements
- Protein Powder: Essential for muscle repair and growth, especially post-workout.
- Creatine: A naturally occurring compound that enhances strength and power output.
- Caffeine: A stimulant that can improve performance during workouts.
- BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids): Can help with muscle protein synthesis and reduce breakdown.
- Citrulline Malate: May improve blood flow and exercise performance.
