On anabolics muscles “grow with eyes”, and isn’t that what every amateur bodybuilder wishes for? However, it is also worth to know the other side of the coin, namely the side effects of steroids, which unfortunately are a lot and which can cause very serious health problems, including permanent impairment of some organs. Here are the most important side effects of steroid use that you should know about.
Table of contents
Hormonal disorders 1.
Steroids, used by strength training adepts, contain potent testosterone derivatives in them. These substances are definitely not indifferent to the hormonal system; on the contrary, they strongly interfere with it, intensifying anabolic processes, causing increased muscle protein synthesis and rapid mass gain. Using anabolics can mess with your hormonal system. As a result of artificially supplied hormones, your body will start to “go crazy”, for example by lowering the production of key hormones and giving such symptoms as
- testicular shrinkage
- erectile dysfunction
- lowered sex drive
- infertility
- prostate enlargement
- gynecomastia (enlargement of the mammary glands)
- excessive body hair
- baldness
- acne
- stunted growth (in teenagers)
2. liver damage
Orally taken anabolic steroids are metabolized in the liver. In the long term, they are a very heavy burden on the liver. Using anabolics for a prolonged period of time may contribute to liver dysfunction or even permanent damage to its structure. Remember that the liver is an organ with many key functions, including being responsible for blood clotting, producing enzymes and bile, taking part in metabolic processes, storing nutrients, filtering blood and cleansing the body of toxins.
3. disturbance of the cardiovascular system
The negative side effects of anabolic steroids also affect another key organ, the heart, as well as the entire cardiovascular system. Anabolics contribute to intense spikes in blood pressure, put strain on the heart, increase blood density, and can cause thrombosis, palpitations, coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
4. behavioral changes, increased levels of aggression, dysregulated emotions
Anabolic steroids do not remain without effect on the mental sphere. People who use these substances often have problems with controlling their emotions, mood swings, easily falling into anger, rage and just as easily catching depressive states, as well as outbursts of aggression, anxiety, sleep problems.
5. other body dysfunctions
Steroid use carries a high risk of water and electrolyte disturbances. These substances cause water retention in the body, which contributes to swelling (on the face or around the joints). Other side effects of steroids are: kidney disorders, lowered immunity, increased susceptibility to infections and diseases, joint and bone problems, digestive disorders (e.g. bloating, diarrhea, vomiting).
If the above side effects of anabolic steroids have convinced you that they are not worth using, congratulations! From my own example I can say that similar effects in terms of muscle building can be achieved without their help (although it may take a little longer). The condition is of course a proper training plan and diet. Additional “kick” will be given by dietary supplements for mass and sculpting (from the safe ones!).
Enter here to learn about the most effective supplements supporting muscle growth! I recommend!
