Are SARMS legal in the UK?
What are SARMS?
SARMS is short for selective androgen receptor modulators. It is a class of supplements with similar muscle-building properties to steroids but has reduced androgenic properties due to its selective nature. SARMS target specific muscle groups and induce anabolic and hypertrophic activities in bones and muscles. Because of their success, their popularity has grown tremendously in the past couple of years. One of the most common topics regarding SARMS is their legality. However, before knowing if SARMS are legal in the UK, it’s imperative to understand how they work.
How do SARMS work?
As the name suggests, SARMS selectively bind to androgen receptors such as your skeletal muscles. Even though there are androgen receptors in many parts of your body, including the liver, SARMS only connects to bone cells and muscle tissue. It is for this reason SARMS is considered safer than many other performing-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Most SARMS trick your body into building muscles by mimicking testosterone.
Are SARMS legal in the UK?
SARMS are legal to purchase, sell and use in the UK for lawful purposes. The UK government classifies SARMS as regular food supplements, the same category as your dietary supplements. Therefore, SARMS are subjected to the same laws that are applied to food supplements. However, even though they are legal to purchase, sell and use, there are cases where their dealing becomes illegal. An example could be a drug dealer selling them to minors or other incompetent parties. Any negligence in this regard can lead to hefty fines and sentences. In simple words, the intent behind their use decides their legality. A researcher using SARMS for research purposes will face no hindrance from the law.
Also, even though they are classified as food supplements, they are not dietary supplements like vitamin D. Many doping agencies forbid their use. They believe SARMS give athletes an unfair advantage and therefore do not allow them. If you compete professionally, it would be best to check your commission’s position on SARMS to avoid testing positive.
Are SARMS safe to use?
SARMS are far safer than their counterparts, such as steroids. They have a completely different mechanism than most PEDs. Steroids are like a live wire that will electrocute anything in their path. In contrast, SARMS only connect to bone cells and muscle tissue. Also, SARMS do not cause swelling. There are androgen receptors in many parts of the body. But, SARMS only connect to the skeletal muscles and therefore, there is no swelling in unwanted areas. Also, SARMS do not convert into estrogen because of their non-steroidal structure. That means, using SARMS is unlikely to cause gynecomastia. In addition, some SARMS have even gone through clinical trials for osteoporosis (fragile bones).
In a nutshell, SARMS have all the benefits of steroids with reduced side effects. However, they cannot be gobbled down like regular supplements. Users should consume them responsibly. Also, do not confuse reduced side effects with no side effects. They still can have some secondary responses, such as nausea and suppressed testosterone levels.
What are the benefits of using SARMS?
The benefits of using SARMS are almost similar to that of steroids. Except, SARMS usually do not have unwanted side effects such as water retention. They have a 10:1 anabolic to androgenic ratio. As a result, they build muscles while cutting fat without any harmful effects. Depending on your dose and some other factors, you might experience the following while using SARMS:
- Accelerated muscle development.
- Leaner muscles
- Stronger bones
- Shorter recovery period
- Raised libido and endurance.
How to get the best results while using SARMS?
It is vital to increase your water intake and consume a healthy diet for getting the best results. Think of SARMS as a catalyst that will speed up the process. Apart from that, everything else stays the same. If you do not work hard in the gym, not even the most potent SARMS can help you gain lean muscle mass.
Also, usually, the best time to take SARMS is in the morning or after your workout. However, some SARMS like Ostarine can be consumed at any time of the day. Most SARMS have high efficacy and can get you your desired results if you stay disciplined enough.
Where to buy SARMS legally in the UK?
Getting your hands on authentic SARMS is as challenging as walking a flight of stairs after leg day. Many studies have proven the monkey business of manufacturers trying to make a quick buck on the back of consumer’s health. A study once demonstrated that approximately 50% of all SARMS weren’t purely SARMS. Some even had chemicals that could be harmful to health.
No matter what, always purchase SARMS from a verified source. Always watch out labels closely and interrogate as much as you can. It’s easy to get caught in the trap of lightweight products that will be heavy on your pockets but will not add a pound of muscle to your body. Accept no substitutes. Only use genuine SARMS that will put an end to your search for the perfect supplements.
If you’re a SARMS user or want to start using SARMS,
