Steroids
Many athletes (especially bodybuilders) and even
recreational exercisers are resorting to anabolic steroids and other illegal drugs to
enhance their performance and physical appearances. In my book, this is not only
unethical, unlawful and harmful, it is plain ignorant and foolish for one to even
experiment with these just for that short-term glory and gain. To date, I have
yet met someone (who had/have used steroids) who could tell me that steroids
have changed his/her life for the better. Instead I have met many who have completely
regretted the use, and some do not live long enough to regret.
Actually the whole problem begins with the fact
that steroids do work - big time. Possibly no amount of food, training, genetics or
supplements can bring the kind of gains steroid could. It has given humankind the kind of
physique and performances that previously only superman can achieve. Not any more.
Steroids have completely revolutionized the sports and fitness scene.
How do steroids work? Taking steroid through
injection or orally increases testosterone (a male hormone) levels in the body by
bypassing the normal pathway for testosterone synthesis and directly adding
testosterone to the bloodstream. Doing this will directly impact the body positively in
the following ways: increased muscle and strength, decreased recovery time, and increase
fat oxidation. While some steroids have certain use in treating certain
diseases, using them for purely cosmetic reason or even professional athletic obligations
is not worthy to compensate for the risks associated with their abuse.
Although different steroids give different side
effects, the common effects include: acne, increased/decreased sex drive, impotence, liver
problems, increased aggression, psychological dependence, gynecomastia (bitch tits),
increased blood pressure, increased cholesterol level, heart diseases, balding, stunted
growth in adolescents, sodium retention, palpitations, enlarged heart, cancer,
decreased blood clotting ability, headaches, anxiety, premature hair loss, stunted growth,
immune system suppression, depression, impotence, stomach aches, jaundice, muscle tears,
enlarged prostate, insomnia, sterility, anaphylactic shock, and enlargement of preexisting
prostate tumors can persist even after steroid use has stopped.
Female steroids users may have masculinizing
effects, like amenorrhea, clitoral hypertrophy, deepening of voice, increased
body and facial hair growth, balding and alterations in skin texture.
And oh, I almost forgot, the ultimate side
effect is probably EARLY DEATH. In recent years, many former professional bodybuilders are
already dying young (before they reached 60 years old). While some magazines discounted
their death as coincidental death and not pertaining to steroid use, I find it hard
to be convinced. One by one, each is coming down like dominos. These are the guys who were
champions in the 70s and 80s (the period where steroids started to become a 'standard' in
competitions and used in mega dosages). Champions before this era lived much
longer. I can't imagine the life span of today's competitors, with the amount and the kind
of steroids they are using.
Some steroid users would try to defend
themselves and justify the use of steroids but who are they kidding? It may true that
through short term use and proper cycling, instead of stacking it mindlessly with many
kinds of steroids and large dosages on consistent basis, may give you less risks. But
what happen if you become psychologically and physically addicted, which normally is
the case? Just like cigarette smoking, once you get hooked, getting off it becomes
extremely difficult. The chance of increasing dosage in order to get the same kick or
effect becomes a reality. Remember, all smokers start with the first stick too!
The message I'm trying to put across is that
while you may have to work harder, longer, and require more discipline in order to
achieve your goals, and you may not be a rewarded with a medal eventually, the fruits you
bore later would be much sweeter. In fact the process of having to overcome obstacles
itself is a rewarding experience and could mould character in you. We exercise because we
want to look good and be healthy. What's the point if one looks good but the health is in
a mess? People who resort to such 'quick fixes' are actually courting troubles and pain in
the long run. Take my word for it
