If you’re a serious bodybuilder and want to take your physique to the next level, you might be considering taking a supplement, such as anabolic steroids. Although they’re used by many athletes and committed gym rats, there are risks associated with taking steroids which need to be considered. Here’s an overview of the factors that should always be taken into account and the dangers that steroids present. Cardiac risks Every anabolic steroid is different and loads the body in different ways so it’s impossible to make a statement that universally applies. However, some steroids do put pressure on the cardiovascular system so if the user has a history of heart problems, use is not advised. Drugs which have estrogenic effects can cause bloating and water retention, which in turn can raise blood pressure. Other drugs cause rises in total cholesterol, as well as the reduction in “good” HDL cholesterol and an increase in “bad” LDL cholesterol. Androgenic and estrogenic effects Although the result of raising testosterone levels in the body can produce a marked positive change in the muscles, there are problems which can be associated with it too. Acne, an increase in body hair and for those who are already prone to it, male pattern baldness can all occur. Avoiding steroids which are based on DHT can to reduce these effects. Androgenic effects can be a particular problem for female users as they could experience something known as virilization. This includes growth of body hair, deepening of the voice and enlargement of the sexual organs. Some steroids are prone to react to the aromatase enzyme, which means they can be converted to oestrogen within the body. As well as causing fluid retention, excess oestrogen can result in an undesirable swelling of breast tissue in men, known as gynecomastia. If the signs are spotted early, the condition is reversible but if allowed to fully develop, surgery will be required to correct it. Age of the individual Anabolic steroids are tough on the body and can have a whole host of effects which need to be carefully monitored. In older individuals, this may be managed but in younger individuals, there’s the prospect of longer term damage. The androgen system takes some time to fully develop and become established and even though it might be legal for an individual to drink and vote, they still may have some biological maturing left to do. Every steroid has an effect on the production of testosterone and while most adult’s men can bounce back with the proper PCT, it can cause significant problem for those whose testosterone production is not yet fully developed. In addition, case studies have shown that when used in younger men, depression and psychological issues can be a problem. This is possibly linked to the low levels of testosterone, and the inability of the body to recover easily. Method of administration Some of the dangers of steroids come not just from the drug itself but from the route of administration. Oral … Continue reading What potential dangers do steroids present?