What do we really know about SARMs research beyond preclinical studies?
I've been diving deep into the world of SARMs lately, and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the conflicting information out there. Most of the studies I can find seem to focus on preclinical research, and I'm struggling to find solid, peer-reviewed data on their effects in human populations. For instance, Schoenfeld and colleagues have laid out some great foundational work on resistance training and hypertrophy, but I haven't seen much application of those principles directly to SARMs.
What really concerns me is the potential health implications that haven't been fully studied. The research by Morton and Bjornson suggests that while SARMs might offer some anabolic benefits, the long-term safety profile is still a massive unknown. I'm also curious about how effective they are compared to traditional steroids or even natural supplements. Are we just trading one set of risks for another? I'd love to hear if anyone has found recent meta-analyses or strong cohort studies that discuss the efficacy and safety of SARMs in a practical context.
With so many athletes looking for an edge, understanding the real risks versus benefits is critical. I want to make informed choices, both for myself and for my clients. What insights or studies do you recommend that delve into this area? Any thoughts on how SARMs might compare to established substances, or what we should be cautious about moving forward?