Steroids have long been a controversial issue since the pinnacle of Arnold Schwarzenegger's bodybuilding career. Although the harmful effects have already been exposed for decades, several young athletes and Mr. Olympia hopefuls are still taking the risk in exchange for short-term physical prowess. Are the perceived dangers of steroids really worth your health?
Steroids are anabolic-androgenic artificial substances that have relative effects on male sex hormones. The term anabolic refers to masculine and muscle-building properties provided by the class of drugs that should only be made available with a doctor's prescription.
Ideally, steroids are indicated for male individuals having problems with sexual characteristics such as impotence, low testosterone levels, tissue degradation caused by AIDS and delayed puberty. Anabolic steroids were first identified and synthesized during the 1930s. Since athletes and bodybuilders discovered its significant effects in boosting muscle mass and strength, steroids are often used recreationally to improve physical appearance. The drugs are taken orally or injected via the muscles or blood vessels. Administration is often done in cycles and in some cases, bodybuilders use a variety of steroids in order to boost results while minimizing harmful effects.
Non-medical uses for anabolic steroids have been highly controversial since athletes began showing very impressive feats that were never thought possible. These have been banned in several athletic agencies such as the NBA, NHL, WTA, FIFA and UEFA. Even bodybuilding events do random drug testing every now and then to discourage competitors from using them.
Most countries control steroid distribution while there are other nations that sell the drug freely such as Thailand and Mexico. Counterfeiting and smuggling allowed steroids to enter the United States through black markets. These are usually of low quality with several health risks.
There are so many side effects that result from steroid abuse and concurrent use such as jaundice, palpitation, dehydration, liver tumor, kidney disorders, cancer, high blood pressure, fluid retention, severe acne, trembling, testicle shrinking, low sperm count, infertility, baldness, gynecomastia or breast enlargement in men, cessation of menstrual cycle in women, hepatitis and bone weakness. There are also a variety of psychological side effects such as paranoia, delusions, irritability, anxiety, feelings of invincibility, depression and euphoria. The term "roid rage" has been coined to describe the sudden mood swings exhibited by most steroid abusers.
Death from steroids is not an uncommon circumstance and it was through the deaths of some popular athletes and individuals that the drugs were finally banned and regulated.
It is illegal to possess anabolic substances without a prescription. Offenders can be penalized with one year imprisonment and a $1,000 fine. Trafficking will be penalized with 5 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The maximum penalties can double for second felony drug offenses. Athletes discovered to be taking the drugs will be penalized by federal laws as well as suffer other consequences established by their respective sporting groups such as suspension, additional fines or termination.
Generally, steroids can help a lot in maintaining muscle mass and boost recovery time for tissues that are highly useful for hardcore bodybuilders. Nutrient absorption in the muscles is enhanced at extreme rates and levels thereby resulting in significant increases in muscle size and strength. Fat loss is also maximized due to the anabolic effect that tends to use fat directly as a fuel source as the substances aim to preserve any present muscle tissue. Steroid users can expect to grow and recover from very intense workouts 5 to 10 times more than the average natural bodybuilder.
Several physical anomalies can also affect internal organs such as the heart, lungs, kidneys and liver. Over time, the body will require more effort to properly synthesize and absorb the drugs. Some individuals may also need to increase the dosage after some time as the body adapts to the effects.
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