Muscle-building claims evidence brief
Deer antler velvet is marketed for IGF-1, muscle growth, recovery, and joint support. It is a classic example of a hormone-adjacent performance claim needing scrutiny.
Human evidence does not support common IGF-1, testosterone, aerobic, or broad strength-performance claims.
38-man RCT: no endocrine, red-cell, or VO2max benefit; strength signal was inconsistent.
Powder, extract, and spray products vary widely, so small trials do not generalize well.
Product identity, anti-doping concern, and weak human evidence make this a poor trust-led recommendation.
Source Drawer
The score reflects evidence that the supplement does its stated job. Some jobs are direct, such as strength, endurance, or recovery; others are indirect, such as sleep, mood, appetite, or health support. A real effect can still receive a cautious practical rating when dose, safety, product quality, or audience fit remain uncertain.
Send the disputed claim, source link, and why it changes the practical verdict. Corrections that materially affect the claim, dose, caveat, or rating are prioritized.
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