The Health Risks Associated With The Use Of Anabolic Steroids
by Rick Mitchell
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Anabolic steroids are classed as illegal drugs and are banned by most
legitimate sports organizations. There can be no disputing the fact that
testosterone boosts the development of muscle mass and aids sporting
performance. Equally there is no doubt that its use can adversely affect
the health and wellbeing of users.
The androgenic properties of
testosterone can affect the body in many ways but often users see these as
inconveniences that can be treated by using other drugs. The most common
side effects of testosterone supplementation include the
following:
1. Testicle shrinkage - the body responds to
testosterone overload by reducing its own production of the hormone. This
causes the testicles to shrink due to lack of use. When steroid usage
stops, the testicles will grow again but they could take at least six
months to return to normal size.
2. Addiction - despite some users
trying to convince themselves otherwise, the use of steroids can result in
physical and psychological addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe
with muscle shrinkage, weakness and loss of libido.
3. Growth of
breast tissue - this affects roughly one third of male steroid users. It
is caused by the conversion of some excess testosterone into the female
hormone estrogen. The breasts usually disappear when use of steroids
ceases but in some cases they are permanent and may require surgical
removal.
4. Baldness and skin conditions - excess testosterone can
be converted into DHT, a hair unfriendly by-product that is responsible
for male pattern baldness and oily skin.
5. Pain, bruising,
infection and scarring may result from careless or incompetent
injecting.
Some people have died as a result of steroid abuse and
even those who adopt a careful, pragmatic approach have to accept that
these health risks are unavoidable. My advice is, follow the natural route
and use nutritional supplements to boost the anabolic process.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rick Mitchell is the creator of the bodybuildingadvisor.com website
that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of
bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding
Advice to learn more about the issues covered in this
article.
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