The NATTY LINE: A nuanced perspective ranging from ‘Natural Foods’ to ‘High-Dose Multi-Compound Anabolic Steroids’ beyond the simplistic “Natty or Not” dichotomy.
8 min read
Feb 28, 2024
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The Enhanced Scale for MUSCLE GROWTH
In the pursuit of physical excellence, individuals traverse a spectrum of supplementation, mirroring the evolutionary journey from primal simplicity to modern complexity. This spectrum, ranging from Level 0 to 10, delineates the gradual progression in one’s approach to muscle growth. Join us as we delve into each level, uncovering the diverse array of supplements and the parallels they draw.
Please note — this spectrum is not based on any actual data and is entirely theoretical and up for debate. It is not scientific at all. However, I think that this scale could be improved upon and allow more transparency for everyone (especially those in the fitness industry), to be honest. These lists are not exhaustive, and there is plenty of room for improvement. Feel free to comment on your thoughts.
Level 0: Natural Foods
Description: raw, unprocessed sustenance straight from Mother Earth or a mammal/other animal. Example items: hunted food, vegetables/roots from the ground, fruit from fruit trees, grass, shrubs, breast milk. Examples of people who consume natural foods: cavemen, hunter-gatherers, tribal societies, ancestors, scavengers, bushmen, infants.
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Level 1: Processed Foods
Description: processed food sourced from stores and restaurants, marking the transition towards civilization. Example items: store-bought food, store-bought vegetables, store-bought chicken, fast food. Examples of people who consume processed foods: general population, children.
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Level 2: Health Supplements
Description: supplements aiding in achieving daily macros and micros for general health. Example items: multivitamins, herbal medicines. Examples of people who consume health supplements: general population, health enthusiasts, biohackers.
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Level 3: Training Supplements
Description: supplements that indirectly support muscle growth through enhanced training performance/recovery. Example items: protein powders, whey/casein powder, pre-workout, caffeine. Examples of people who consume training supplements: gym goers, bodybuilders, powerlifters, fitness enthusiasts, athletes, sports people.
Level 4: Muscle Growth Supplements
Description: supplements targeted directly for muscle growth. Example items: Creatine, Tongkat Ali, Ashwagandha. Examples of people who consume muscle growth supplements: gym goers, bodybuilders, pro athletes, sports people, biohackers, fitness and health enthusiasts.
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Level 5: Peptides/Peptide-like
Description: peptides like BPC-157, some people use peptides as part of their HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). Example items: BPC-157, GHRP, CJC-1295.
A non-peptide example of something I would consider level 5 would be a Cortisone injection.
Examples of people who use peptides: gym goers, pro athletes, pro sportspeople, Hollywood stars, people on HRT, injured people, biohackers, health and fitness enthusiasts.
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Level 6: Prohormones/SARMs/SARM-like
Description: introduction to more potent muscle-building compounds. Example items: MK-677, Ostarine. Examples of people who use prohormones, SARMS, and SARM-like compounds: gym goers, Hollywood stars, athletes, sports people, fitness enthusiasts.
Level 7: Low-Dose Replacement/Cruise
Description: low-dose HRT/TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy). Example items: TRT, HRT, Testosterone. Examples of people who use low-dose replacement/cruise cycles: gym goers, beginner cycle users, people on TRT/HRT, hypogonadal individuals, bodybuilders, athletes.
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Level 8: First Cycle / Cruise
Description: initiating a more pronounced anabolic cycle. Example items: Test, Deca. Examples of people who use a first cycle/cruise: gym goers, beginner cycle users, Hollywood stars, athletes, sports people, fitness enthusiasts, bodybuilders in their off season.
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Level 9: High-Dose Cycle/Blast (Fitfluencer/Gym Rat Blast)
Description: intensive AAS (Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid) use for physique transformation and strength gains. Example cycle: Tren + high dose Test + Anavar Examples of people who use a high-dose cycle/blast: gym goers, advanced cycle users, fitness influencers, pro bodybuilders, pro powerlifters, pro athletes, and pro strongmen.
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Level 10: Extremely High Dose Multi-Compound Anabolic Steroids Blast (Olympia-Level Show Blast)
Description: The pinnacle of AAS for elite bodybuilding, strength and other athletic competitions. Example cycle: Tren + Deca + HGH + Insulin + Anavar (multi-compound high dose cycles) Examples of people: pro bodybuilders, pro powerlifters, pro athletes, and pro strongmen.
Some level 10 athletes:
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Conclusion
Embarking on a fitness journey involves navigating through this intricate spectrum of supplementation. Each level represents a distinct phase, echoing the evolution of human lifestyle and our relentless pursuit of physical excellence. Understanding this hierarchy empowers individuals to make informed choices aligned with their goals and aspirations. So, where do you find yourself on this evolutionary fitness-supplementation spectrum?
Abbreviations:
macros
macronutrients
micros
micronutrients
HRT
Hormone Replacement Therapy
TRT
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Test
Testosterone
HGH
Human Growth Hormone
Tren
Trenbolone
Deca
Deca-Durabolin
Definitions:
peptide
A short chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. Peptides are smaller than proteins, which are composed of longer amino acid chains. Peptides play crucial roles in biological processes and can have various functions in the body, including acting as signaling molecules, hormones, neurotransmitters, or components of larger proteins. The specific sequence of amino acids in a peptide determines its unique properties and functions.
cycle
In the context of anabolic steroids, a “cycle” refers to a planned period of time during which an individual uses anabolic steroids for specific purposes, such as muscle growth, strength improvement, or athletic performance enhancement. A typical cycle consists of an “on” phase (referred to as a “blast”) during which the individual takes higher doses of steroids, and an “off” phase (referred to as a “cruise” or “post-cycle therapy”) where the steroid use is reduced or discontinued.
The goals of a steroid cycle may include maximizing muscle gains, enhancing performance, or achieving a desired physique. The concept of cycling is often employed to manage potential side effects, minimize the risk of developing tolerance to the steroids, and allow the body to recover from the stress imposed during the on phase.
blast
In the context of anabolic steroids and bodybuilding, the term “blast” is often used to describe a period during which an individual takes higher doses of anabolic steroids to maximize muscle growth and strength. A “blast” is typically part of a cycle, which is a structured plan for using anabolic steroids to achieve specific fitness or performance goals.
The cycle involves both “on” periods, where the individual takes the steroids, and “off” periods, where they abstain from steroid use to allow the body to recover. During the “blast” phase, individuals may increase the dosage of steroids beyond what is considered a standard or therapeutic level, aiming to push their body’s anabolic (muscle-building) effects to the maximum.
It’s important to note that the use of anabolic steroids for non-medical purposes, including bodybuilding or athletic performance enhancement, is associated with significant health risks and potential side effects. It should only be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
cruise
In the context of anabolic steroids, a “cruise” refers to a phase in a steroid cycle where an individual takes a lower, maintenance dose of anabolic steroids. This phase typically follows a “blast,” during which higher doses are used to maximize muscle growth and strength.
The concept of cycling involves alternating between periods of higher steroid doses (blasts) and lower doses or complete cessation (cruises) to manage potential side effects, allow the body to recover, and help prevent the development of tolerance or resistance to the steroids.
During the cruise phase, individuals aim to maintain some level of anabolic activity while giving their body a break from the higher doses used during the blast. This is thought to help prevent or minimize adverse effects on health and hormonal balance.
AAS (Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid)
Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that mimic the effects of the male sex hormone testosterone. They have both anabolic (tissue-building) and androgenic (masculinizing) effects, which contribute to increased muscle mass and strength.
AAS are often used by athletes, bodybuilders, and individuals for performance enhancement or cosmetic purposes. They can be taken orally or injected, and users often follow specific cycles, including periods of higher doses (referred to as “blasts”) and lower maintenance doses or cessation (referred to as “cruises”).
Disclaimer
In the pursuit of discussing the spectrum of supplementation for muscle growth, it is imperative to clarify that the information provided herein is not based on any medical or scientific expertise. The author of this content is not a doctor, possesses no medical or biological background, and is solely a fitness enthusiast, podcaster, and gym fanatic.
The content is entirely theoretical, speculative, and subject to debate. It does not rely on any actual data, and the suggested levels and substances are for illustrative purposes only. This scale should not be construed as medical advice, and the author does not encourage or endorse the use of any compounds discussed.
Readers are advised to consult with qualified healthcare professionals, including doctors and nutritionists, before considering any form of supplementation. The information presented here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and individual responses to supplements may vary.
Furthermore, the lists provided at each level are not exhaustive, and the field of supplementation is continually evolving. The author acknowledges the need for improvement and invites readers to share their thoughts and experiences.
By engaging with this content, readers accept that the information is not scientific, may lack accuracy, and should be approached with caution. The author assumes no responsibility for any actions taken based on the content, and individuals are urged to prioritize their health and well-being through informed decision-making and professional guidance.
In conclusion, this content serves as a platform for discussion and exploration of the diverse facets of fitness supplementation. It is crucial to approach fitness journeys with prudence and to seek advice from qualified experts when making decisions that impact one’s health.