Important Facts About Steroid Use in Bodybuilding
Steroids may simply be defined as natural or synthetic chemicals that regulate bodily functions. They may also loosely be described as a grouping of synthetic drugs that resemble hormones manufactured by adrenal glands (cortical steroids) and hormones manufactured by male sexual organs (anabolic steroids).Steroids are essentially lipids from cholesterol secreted from the gonads, placenta and adrenal cortex. They are basically synthetic testosterone derivatives that serve to enhance bone and muscle growth.
Testosterone is the major sex hormone produced by the testicles in males. It serves to cause anabolic and androgenic effects in males. Anabolic (building) effects are increased strength, increased muscle size, improved virility and vitality and enhanced recovery or rejuvenation of the muscles, especially after a rigorous workout session. These are the much-sought after effects by bodybuilders and athletes.
Androgenic (masculinizing) effects are less on the physical side and more on the features side. They include: deepening of the voice, increased growth of body and facial hair and development of acne. It is important to note that these same features will also manifest in women who use the steroids.
How Steroids Work
Steroids work by increasing levels of testosterone in the body almost right away and directing them to the bloodstream. Specific effects or benefits induced depend on the type of steroid taken. Increment of the testosterone hormone in the body actually magnifies the existing reactions and does not initiate the chemical reactions.
March 11 2011 | Anabolic Steroid Side Effects | Comments Off