Is Taking Steroids Good For Bodybuilding?

Steroids the most infamous supplements in the bodybuilding arena attract teenagers especially. Those glorified muscles, macho body and bulky posture is what steroids promise in no time. But the question still remains, is taking steroids good for bodybuilding?

Answers are varying based on personal experiences, scientific research and promotional stunts. Many bodybuilders claim that steroids were helpful for them in bodybuilding while there are some who oppose their use strongly. So what is the reality let’s check out in this article.

What are steroids?

According to Kevin Iole, the definition of steroids as used in his paper “Steroid Use Persists despite Damning Truth” is “man-made derivatives of testosterone, the male hormone. They synthesize protein and help promote muscle growth”.

There are two types of steroids available which are growth hormones and anabolic steroids. The later one are mostly injectible supplements which are found to be most effective in muscle building. The growth hormone steroids are available as oral formulations as well which are sold even without prescription. 

All steroids work by stimulating the production of growth hormones in the body which are needed to improve muscle production. However this comes at the cost of many complications and side effects for the user.

The Effects and Side Effects

According to most reports there is no valid beneficial impact of using steroids for bodybuilders. Many promotional articles have a complete different say however. According to the manufacturers of these supplements, steroids can help easy muscle build up, improve athletic performance, enhance endurance and sexual health. While there are no medical proofs available it is hard to believe on these claims.

On the other side effects of using steroids are very common and proven by the medical reports. Some of the severe side effects include:

• Cystic acne, headaches, severe abdominal and leg cramping, sudden and significant increase in body weight, premature hair loss and many more.
• There are some cardiovascular risks as well which include cholesterol modifications, anaphylactic shock, heart disease, hypertension or high blood pressure, premature death and septic shock.
• Reproductive system anomalies like genital atrophy, sexual dysfunction, genital swelling, prostate enlargement, sterility, fetal damage, menstrual irregularities and impotence.
• Not only physical but there can be psychological impact of using steroids as well. Depression, aggressive and hostile behavioral are some changes which these supplements can bring.

Personal Experience

According to personal experience of a steroid user as shared by Bodybuilding.com reflects some dangers of using them.

The user admits, “I was destroyed as much mentally as I was physically,” who believes steroids are addictive.  He also adds, “It’s like being an alcoholic. It’s a habit you have the rest of your life. I believe steroids are addictive, if not more, than any recreational drug that is out there.”

Conclusion

The benefits as endorsed by the steroids brands may be tempting but the side effects clearly outweigh the few benefits. Bodybuilders should try to avoid use of steroids under all circumstances. There is no better way to bodybuilding than natural and unadulterated bodybuilding.