If you are here, then probably you were thinking of having steroids for some reason. Most probably for building muscles, and you are not sure because of the long heard steroids side effects.
Here in this article, you will know the answer to all the questions you have about steroids.
To begin with;
What Are Steroids?
Steroids are synthetic forms of testosterone (the male sex hormone). This hormone is produced in the body naturally, steroids help to increase the testosterone levels in the body and result in increased muscle mass and strength, etc.
Although it is generally known as the male sex hormone, It is important to mention that females produce this hormone too, but in significantly lower amounts.
Are There Any Types Of Steroids?
Yes, steroids can be broadly classified into three types.
Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids – These steroids build muscles and help masculinize (more hair, deeper voice). These are like testosterone.
Glucocorticoid steroids – These are anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressants used in swelling and rashes, etc. like cortisone or prednisone.
Minerocortico steroids – These are like vasopressin that is produced by the adrenal glands for salt and water regulation in the body.
The latter two are mainly used for medical purposes, under prescription, in limited quantities. These show minimum steroids side effects due to limited prescribed quantities.
But, the Anabolic-androgenic steroids are popular among people looking for better muscles and strength. These may result in side effects as people tend to have more quantities without proper precautions and prescriptions for quick and better results.
Why Are Steroids Used?
Despite the steroids side effects, there are many reasons people take them. Steroids having medical benefits are often prescribed by doctors. But, the androgen-anabolic steroids also called the anabolic steroids are used for various reasons like;
- Promotion of muscle gain
- Increasing the muscle tissue
- Enhancing protein synthesis
- Decreasing body fat percentage
- Increasing muscle strength and power
- Enhancing recovery from workouts and injury
- Improving bone mineral density
- For better muscle endurance
- Increasing red blood cell production
Anabolic steroids are used by athletes sometimes to improve their output in terms of speed and power.
What Do Steroids Do To Your Body?
Biologically, steroids help the muscle cells to produce more protein and thereby increasing muscle mass and strength, as long as you workout along with it.
Testosterone as two functions; anabolic (dealing with muscle mass and strength) and androgenic(dealing with masculine features like facial hair and deeper voice)
Anabolic steroids or androgenic-anabolic steroids help mainly with the anabolic function of testosterone. But, the steroids side effects in females for anabolic steroids are usually the development of male characteristics.
What Are Steroids Side Effects?
Despite the benefits for which people prefer it, there are some steroids side effects, as well.
These side effects are the only reason many people do not prefer using steroids.
Some of the steroids side effects are;
- There is an increased risk of joint-related injuries. (the increase in muscle mass is not accompanied by a corresponding increase in the tendon, ligament, or joint size or strength.)
- Steroids may actually weaken tendons. The more rapid the weight gain, the higher the risk of injury.
- Acne
- Anxiety
- Aggression (Roid Rage)
- Trouble sleeping
- Fluid retention
- Gynecomastia
- Liver tumors and cysts
- Male pattern baldness
- Mania
- Paranoia
- Personality change
- Prostate enlargement
- Psychological dependence
- Sexual problems
- Decreased sperm production
- Deepening of the voice
- Depression
- Testicular atrophy
- Increased appetite
- Increased cholesterol
- Increased energy
- Increased libido
- Irregular hair growth
These are the potential steroids side effects. You may experience these according to your body type. You must be thinking about the role of body type, now.
Thing are about to get clear,
Can You Have Steroids?
Yes, you can have steroids after consulting a doctor about it and having them responsibly.
Now, as I always say, everything depends upon an individual’s body type. If a person Z has been having steroids for ages but does not show any steroids side effects does not mean you are safe to have them too. You should know if your body will be able to take them or no.
You should know the side effects and you must be ready to face them. You must be sure about your goals in life and act accordingly.
Just because your friend is safe from the steroids side effects and suggested you have steroids does not mean you have to start having them then and there.
Do your own research, know if they are right for you, and always consult a doctor.
The Takeaway
So, steroids have some benefits and some prolonged side effects as well.
Too much of anything is bad, the steroids side effects too mainly show up because of overdose.
Have responsibility, stay safe.
