First Look:
The Best SARMs in 2021 (Safe and Fast Steroid Alternatives)
- Ostarine MK-2866
- Testolone RAD-140
- Andarine S-4
- Lingadrol LGD-4033
- YK-11
SARMs stands for Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators. These compounds share similar properties with anabolic steroids but, as per the name, are more selective in how they work. As receptor modulators, they have set effects on specific tissues or areas.
Comparatively, steroids are notorious for affecting more than muscle growth and performance: the dangers are no secret.
SARMs are a relatively novel muscle-building alternative, but that’s not to say they don’t have a solid base of advocates already.
We delve into the science behind SARMs and review five popular varieties to reveal what each can do for you. We investigate how they work with fact-based research based on legitimate studies — no unfounded claims here.
The Best SARMs in 2021
1. Ostarine MK-2866-Best SARM Overall
Ostarine MK-2866 is also known as Ostarine or Enobosarm. This SARM mimics the action of testosterone. Since this male hormone can help you shed unwanted fat, improve lean muscle mass, and boost energy, it’s an all-around winner
How it Works
Ostarine reproduces testosterone’s effects: it was originally designed to treat conditions caused, or worsened, by testosterone deficiencies. As with all SARMs, it binds to androgen receptors throughout your body.
Although there’s no certified research on this compound for bodybuilding, it has proven successful in the muscle-building department. Originally used to treat muscle wasting from various chronic conditions, Ostarine can significantly enhance physical function and lean muscle mass in women and men.
MK-2866 can get results in doses as low as one milligram. Per one study on cancer patients suffering from muscle wasting, stair-climbing power improved substantially, with greater improvements seen in those taking a higher dosage.
Animal trials show that Ostarine may also increase bone density and prevent bone loss. Since powerlifting and other intensive bodybuilding workouts can heighten your risk for fractures, it’s worth considering for that alone.
Ostarine MK-2866 Side Effects
Ostarine MK-2866 is non-steroidal; it isn’t actually testosterone, although it works similarly. Side effects are minimal compared to traditional androgenic agents.
You may experience mild stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Ostarine. These are delicate times, keep things natural.
Bottom Line
Testosterone is the driving force behind many beneficial body processes, from muscle building to increased physical function. Since Ostarine selectively mimics testosterone’s abilities, it’s easily one of the best SARMs for performance enhancement and muscle gain.
2.Testolone RAD-140 – Best for Bulking Up
Testolone RAD-140 was originally developed to target conditions like breast cancer and muscle wasting. It is one of the most potent SARMs, making it an optimal candidate if you want to bulk up and build muscle fast.
How it Works
RAD-140 exhibits an exceptional affinity for androgen-receptor cells in the body. It’s also extremely selective compared to other SARMs; it doesn’t impact other steroid-hormone receptors. Initial studies on the compound reveal Testolone increases lean body mass without impacting fat mass.
SARMs are already discerning by definition, but research confirms that RAD-140 binds particularly well to the androgen receptors in bone and muscle. It blocks androgen receptors in the prostate and breasts, decreasing the risk of prostate and breast cancer.
RAD-140 is a safer treatment alternative to combat muscle wasting than testosterone replacement therapy and anabolic steroids. Both can aggravate or provoke cancers due to the overstimulation of androgen receptors.
Testolone could also boost brainpower. Early trials found that it can reduce brain cell death caused by aging. Anabolic steroid use is associated with increased brain abnormalities, making this SARM even more promising.
Trials show it may even suppress breast cancer. Its enhanced selectivity also means that, for women, the risk of other unpleasant androgenic effects such as hair growth is low.
Testolone RAD-140 Side Effects
Anecdotal reports from RAD-140 users warn of nausea for first-time users. Other potential adverse effects include insomnia or lethargy — experiences vary depending on the dosage and cycle length.
Bottom Line
Testolone’s swift muscle-building abilities are among the best if you’re in a bulking cycle. As one of the most discriminating SARMs, it’s also excellent for targeting muscle and bone without impacting anything else.
3. Lingadrol LGD-4033 – Best for Women
Lingadrol, or LGD-4033, is a SARM used to combat bone and muscle loss, resulting from osteoporosis. It is one of the best SARMs for women because they are more prone to bone disease. Lingadrol is also among the few SARMs to undergo human trials with promising results.
How it Works
LGD-4033 boasts high selectivity when it bonds to androgen-receptive cells in the body, opting for those in muscles and bones. It also works swiftly: a 21-day study on healthy men found all participants enjoyed increased lean body mass.
Within this short period, participants also showed increased leg press strength and stair-climbing power.
Dosages ranged from just 0.1-1mg, demonstrating its ultra-high potency. Since women naturally build muscle at a slower pace than men, due to lower testosterone levels, LGD-4033 could be a good strategy to kickstart muscle gain.
Animal trials confirm suggested that Lingadrol may be adept at positively affecting bones and muscles without interfering with sensitive areas, like the prostate. Outcomes included increased bone mass and strength, as well as improved sexual function.
Lingadrol Side Effects
Some users might experience stomach trouble, such as nausea or abdominal pain. Remember that variables such as your diet and how long you choose to cycle the compound influence its effects.
Bottom Line
Since the loss of bone density is more common, and tends to start at an earlier age, in women than men, we designate it as the best SARM for women. Nonetheless, the potent capacity of LGD-4033 to build lean muscle in the body makes it a viable choice for most bodybuilders.
4. YK-11 – Best for Fast Gains
Aside from the usual SARMs characteristics, YK-11 stands out in that it inhibits myostatin. This compound inhibits cell growth and differentiation in muscles. That ability makes it an optimal SARM if you’re after rapid progress.
How it Works
This SARM has limited research available, but what exists is promising. It suppresses myostatin, a natural compound in the body that negatively impacts muscle growth. Myostatin is one of the culprits behind muscle wasting in elderly or chronically ill individuals.
Suppressing myostatin can not only prevent muscle atrophy and loss, but it can also improve growth too. Research supports that strength gains are another positive consequence of limiting myostatin.
At the same time, YK-11 boosts follistatin expression, a helpful protein that contributes to muscle growth, fertility, and metabolism. Follistatin also serves to work against myostatin, which translates to greater muscle gains.
YK-11 Side Effects
Secondhand reports from YK-11 users mention joint and tendon pain as a possible side effect. Since there’s minimal scientific research about it, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it.
Bottom Line
The myostatin-inhibiting action of this SARM is worth a try for the novice that wants quick results. Experienced bodybuilders can also use it to speed up the bulking process.
5. Andarine S-4 – Best for Cutting Fat
Andarine is a selective androgen receptor that ranks among the best SARMs for cutting. It was developed to combat osteoporosis and muscle wasting — so you can imagine what it can do for a healthy person.
Apart from improving muscle mass, S-4 can aid with fat loss too. Bigger muscles, combined with enhanced fat loss, should help you achieve that coveted “cut” look. If you want to transition through the difficult cutting cycle without over-supplementing, Andarine could be an option.
Err on the side of caution and avoid supplementing with Andarine while pregnant and breastfeeding. Increased hair loss is a possible effect, although bear in mind that reports of Andarine side effects differ dramatically.