Why is Deer Antler Velvet used for Bodybuilding?


Deer antler velvet is a dietary supplement made from growing deer antlers. When made into an extract, it is known as deer antler spray. In the growth stage, deer antlers are full of nutrients including amino acids and growth factors. In clinical studies, these ingredients have been found to be beneficial to those intending to build muscle size and strength. That is why bodybuilders and other athletes use deer antler spray – to help them get bigger and  stronger.

 Deer Antler Velvet and Deer Antler Spray IGF-1

The key to deer antler velvet’s potency is the growth factor content. There are 13 growth factors contained in deer antler velvet, including insulin growth-like factor 1, also called IGF-1. High quality deer antler sprays have a high concentration of potent, natural growth factors including:

  • Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I
  • Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) II
  • Transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-A)
  • Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-B)
  • Epidermal growth factor (EGF)
  • Erythropoietin (EPO)
  • Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs)
  • Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)
  • Growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9)
  • Interleukins
  • Nerve growth factor (NGF) and other neurotrophins
  • Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)
  • Vascular endothelial growth factor

Growth factors are natural proteins in our body that promote the growth, organization and maintenance of cells and tissues. All work together to make our bodies strong by constantly building, maintaining and repairing our cells.

In particular, IGF-1 is an important hormone that plays a vital role in the growth and development of a child. In adults, IGF-1 has an anabolic effect, meaning it stimulates the growth of muscles. It is produced naturally by the liver in response to Human Growth Hormone (HGH), which is produced by the pituitary gland.

IGF-1 works by transporting glucose and amino acids into muscle cells, which aids muscular function and muscular recovery. However, as we age, our HGH levels decrease and correspondingly, so do our IGF-1 levels. The effect of this on our bodies is that it reduces our ability to recover, repair and heal itself. In other words, we begin showing signs of aging.

The main benefits of IGF-1 supplementation are increases in muscle growth, athletic performance and recovery. For younger people, the use of IGF-1 encourages muscular growth and development. While for older people, IGF-1 use assists with muscle preservation and maintenance. For bodybuilders, IGF-1 translates to increased performance and quicker recovery from hard training or from injury. It is a highly effective supplement to their training regimens.

Next: What are the Benefits of IGF-1?