Deer Antler Supplements for Athletes and Bodybuilders

Deer antler products are natural and organic, which is why they appeal to many. However, there is still a lot of confusion surrounding these products. Are they legal? Are they safe? These are the types of questions that the public is wondering, especially those that are directly associated with fitness and bodybuilding.

Instead of using steroids, individuals are looking for safer options. Deer antler is considered to be safe, but what are the key differences? How does deer antler spray compare to steroids or other artificial anabolic stimulants?

What Exactly Is Deer Antler Spray?

This spray is made of exactly what is suggested in its name. It is extracted from the antlers of both domesticated and wild deer. Its most common uses are for enhanced muscle growth and strength, detoxification, and stamina. This is why it is becoming increasingly popular within the athletic and bodybuilding community.

If you have the opportunity to see deer antlers in person, you’ll notice that there is a soft ‘velvet,’ which is rich in IGF-1. This is what’s known as a natural growth factor. It is suggested that deer antler will enhance performance and recovery. However, there is still some confusion surrounding its use.

Deer Antler and Performance Enhancing Drugs

At this time, deer antler is NOT considered to be a performance enhancing drug. This was not always the case, as this product was once banned from professional sports. Since this product includes growth hormones, it was banned from the World Anti-Doping Agency.

The media brought attention to this product, when headlines hit regarding its use in professional sports. A new investigation was launched, finding that IGF-1 did not contain enough growth factor to breach doping rules. Athletes are now free to use this substance, without fear of being punished.

Deer antler spray is legal within Canada, the United States, Australia, the UK, and many other countries. There is no ban on deer antler spray, so athletes can utilize its benefits (both professional and amateur athletes).

The Effects and Benefits of Deer Antler Supplements

When taking deer antler spray on a regular basis, you can experience results in as little as 3 weeks. On average, it takes around 3-5 weeks in order to see results. While taking traditional steroids, effects can take up to 2 months. This is one of the reasons why deer antler products are gaining attention.

The powder extracted from the antlers can also create the following potential benefits. In order to maximize results, you will need to train as well.

  • Enhanced recovery time
  • Improved endurance
  • Sharper mental focus
  • Allows individuals to heal faster
  • Increases metabolism, while increasing overall fat-loss
  • Allows individuals to build lean muscle mass

When focusing on these effects as a whole, athletes typically experience weight-loss and the ability to increase their muscle mass. Although you will still need to put forth effort, your time in the gym is maximized when taking this supplement.

Although there is still some controversy surrounding its benefits, deer antler supplements have shown positive results. Studies have verified its action for bone growth, but are still researching its effects on muscle growth. This supplement has also been tested and verified regarding its role in healing cartilage. This is one of the main reasons why athletes take this supplement. Being able to effectively recover is essential.

Is this Supplement Safe?

It is important to ensure the safety of a product before you begin using it. Since there have been mixed views of this supplement over the years, it has raised many questions and concerns. With that being said, this supplement is legal and is considered to be safe.

Unlike steroids, this supplement does not need to be injected. When taking artificial steroids for instance, they are destroyed by the acids found in one’s stomach. The difference with deer antler spray, is that it bypasses digestion. It is administered under the tongue, which allows it to be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Unlike steroids, deer antler velvet is considered to be a dietary supplement as well. It contains zinc, magnesium, calcium, and a range of amino acids. They also contain prostaglandins, which are compounds that help regulate and control hormones, inflammation, blood pressure, and muscle activity.

What Form of This Supplement Should You Take?

As mentioned, growth hormones are generally destroyed by the acids in your stomach. Due to this effect, ingesting pills and powders are not recommended. By the time this supplement leaves one’s liver, there is not much left.

This is why a sublingual spray has been developed. Under your tongue, there are many small capillaries. These help you absorb deer antler spray into your bloodstream, bypassing digestion. Since this product effectively breaks down in salvia, administration under the tongue is highly effective.

When taking this supplement, an optimal dosage has not yet been recognized. According to traditional Chinese medicine, between 1000 mg and 2000 mg daily is ideal. When focusing on this supplement as a dietary product, 500 mg once daily, is typically recommended. Like any supplement, approach your health care professional if you have any questions or concerns.