SIDE EFFECTS OF STEROIDS


Acne, male pattern baldness, erectile disfunction, shrunken testicles, decreased sperm count, (Hypogonadism), breast tissue in males (Gynecomastia), liver damage, changes in cholesterol levels, stunted height, cardiovascular problems, enlarged prostate, water retention, depression, mood changes, and the shutting down of natural hormonal production. 

Also in females side effects include menstrual changes, cervical cancer, virilization symptoms such as an enlarged clitoris, deepening of voice, and abnormal hair growth. 

With Human Growth Hormone (HGH) use there is the added increased risk of cancer and diabetes, joint swelling, joint pain, changes in bone structure, Acromegaly (Abnormal growth of organs), and body odor.



PSYCHIATRIC EFFECTS OF STEROID


Some of the most common side effects of excessive steroid usage  include   loss   of   hair   in    men    (due to conversion of testosterone  to  DHT),    deepening  of  vocal  chords  and development   of   facial   hair  on   females,     gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in males), variation in the natural levels of cholesterol in the human body- which can lead to cardiovascular diseases, heart seizure and other coronary artery diseases.

Apart from these side effects, steroids simulate the sebaceous glands, which can lead to acne and other skin conditions.   Oral anabolic steroids need to be burnt down and digested by the body and this can also lead to severe liver damage if the doses are not controlled or backed up by injections.



STEROID BASIC


Anabolic steroids are artificially produced drugs that mimic the effects of the male sex hormone- testosterone.  They help in building cellulartissue (and hence, lean muscle mass) through increased protein synthesis.  

Anabolic steroids also have androgenic properties that result in the highlighting of male characteristics because of which their official name is Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS).



LIVER PROTECTION


The intense amounts bodybuilding training with food, anabolic steroids and supplements can often take its toll on the liver.

A healthy liver is required for building muscles and losing extra fats as it’s responsible for maintaining fats and protein transformation and refining the toxins in the body.

Bodybuilders are well aware of the importance of a healthy liver in the muscle building method; therefore, it’s necessary that they maintain a healthy liver by taking few necessary precautions.



UNDERGROUND LABS


Because steroids have been more difficult to get underground labs have sprung up all over the world to meet the demand.  Because underground labs do not have to meet the stringent standards,   required  by legitimate pharmaceutical companies the quality may vary from batch to batch.

Because of the lack of quality control underground labs can be a dangerous choice.  There have been reports of heavy metals, and other contaminants in all kinds of drugs from underground labs.



BASICS OF NUTRITION


Steroid usage needs to be supplemented with a good and nutritious diet.  In this chapter we would be taking a closer look at what  exactly  qualifies  as nutritious.  

There are certain characteristics  and ground rules that define a diet comprising of the right nutrition values.   Play and fiddle around with these rules till the time you are sure of what kind of diet suits your needs the most.   You can then make your own diet routines and list down your own diet plans.