There’s no getting away from the fact that the topic of steroids and bodybuilding is a thorny one that causes strong feelings across the board and it’s a difficult balance to strike. Some people who train regularly feel that in small, monitored doses with proper medical supervision, they’re worth it. Others might disagree. It’s a subject that needs to be discussed more openly. So, are steroids worth the risk? We discuss in this guide to the pros and cons of steroids. Weigh up for yourself if you’re willing to take the risk.
Steroids and bodybuilding
For many years now, bodybuilders who train regularly and use diet and fitness plans to build muscle mass and gain weight, have sought help from qualified medical professionals about the best way to take low doses of steroids to enhance their lifestyle.
Any medical professional worth their salt would advise that such a course of action must only be done under strict medical supervision, using the correct legal channels for getting a prescription or buying steroids online to assist with their plans. It’s the safest and most ethical way and means that everything is above board and can be checked out thoroughly beforehand and during treatment.
Whilst on such a regime of treatment it’s important that regular blood testing is undertaken and that blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol are monitored as often as possible to ensure that no harm is being done to health. In the event problems arise, they can be stopped or tapered off safely to reduce any risks.
Under strict supervision, it’s entirely possible that steroids can work, and be effective, but this always comes with a caveat.
The risks of steroids to health when bodybuilding
Taking steroids for bodybuilding from unregulated channels and without medical supervision of any kind is not advised at all. Honesty and openness are always the best way.
There are always risks to general health. Health supplements of any kind can always pose a risk no matter how innocuous they may seem – that’s why it’s always important to discuss any changes in medication with a healthcare professional so that the best course of action can be decided upon.
Health concerns such as raised blood pressure, increased risk of cardiovascular events, and even dental concerns like swollen and bleeding gums can arise as a result of taking steroids without any proper medical checks beforehand.
It’s also important to factor in any other prescribed medications being taken for health conditions, alongside other vitamin and mineral supplements as these can all have a bearing on how a steroid will affect an individual when taken regularly.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide and make a cost/benefit analysis of whether steroids are worth the risk.
If a bodybuilder decides it’s the right decision for them, the best and only way forward is to make sure it’s done under strict medical supervision (and with consent on both sides), regular health check-ups, and a slow, gradual tapering off to ensure that withdrawal is easy, safe and without any further health risks.
