Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : October 29, 2017 1:15 AM IST
If you are a gym goer, you might have heard about the various supplements that are taken to beef up the body. And this is where steroids come into play. One such commonly used steroids are testosterone supplements also known as testosterone boosters. Not just professional competitors, sports supplements are highly popular among gym goers too (non-competitors). Known to improve your built and muscle mass, testosterone supplements can cause harm in the long term. Dr Altamash Shaikh, Consultant Endocrinologist, Diabetologist and Metabolic Physician, S.L Raheja Hospital, Fortis explains if these so-called sports supplements with testosterone are safe or not. Read to know are bodybuilding supplements necessary?
Testosterone is the primary male hormone that helps in increasing muscle mass & body strength along with boosting libido, virility and decreasing the risk of illness. It is also used as a drug to treat delayed puberty in adolescent males, a medical condition. Many people consume these supplements enriched with hormones for various health benefits like building muscles and staying fit and medical reasons. However, there is a need for people to understand that these supplements are temporarily beneficial and can cause harmful effects to the body at large. Here's a gym beginner s guide to whey and other protein supplements.
In the long run, testosterone supplements could trigger mood swings, heart disease, dyslipidemia (abnormal amount of lipids in the blood) and low energy. It also takes away the sperm count and triggers infertility, apart from damaging libido and causing gynecomastia (enlargement of the gland tissue of the male breast). It also causes problems with the brain, kidney, skin and the immune system of the body.
Moreover, testosterone supplements in women can also cause side effects. For women who consume such supplements, it may lead to excessive hair growth, irregular period cycles, acne and disrupted metabolism. In some cases, it can also lead to epiphyses, a condition that causes early closure of the ends of the bones.
Also read about 6 supplements for athletes to enhance their performance.
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