Anabolic Steroids Side Effects & Risks to Your Body and Mind

Key Takeaways

• Steroid use comes with serious mental health risks that many users don't expect. The surge in testosterone can trigger severe anxiety, violent thoughts, and cognitive decline – effects that can impact your daily life and relationships.
• While steroids can build muscle quickly, they often lead to dependency and long-term health problems. Users face increased risks of heart disease, kidney failure, and various cancers that far outweigh the temporary gains.
• The fitness industry often downplays or ignores these risks. Don't let social media influencers and misinformation cloud your judgment. Building muscle naturally might take longer, but it's the safer, more sustainable path to achieving your fitness goals.

Want to build muscle and stay healthy for life?

You need the real facts about steroids. Our expert team, including an exercise scientist with over 20 years of experience, has carefully analyzed this crucial topic. We combine scientific research with real-world experience to give you the complete picture.

In this article, we review, critique, and expand on Dr. Mike Israetel's recent podcast discussion about steroid use. You'll learn the hard truth about these substances – not just the short-term gains, but the serious risks to your health and wellbeing.

Whether you're tempted by steroids or just want to understand the facts, this guide will help you make informed decisions about your fitness journey.

Related:

• Dr. Mike Israetel on Muscle Gain, Fat Loss, Steroids & Life: In-Depth
• Bodybuilding Pre Steroid Era: What Is It, Why It Matters, Pro Tips & More
• 3 Best AI Bodybuilding Apps to Build Muscle (Free & Paid)

In a Nutshell—Dr. Mike Israetel's Key Insights on Anabolic Steroid Risks

Understanding Anabolic Steroids Side Effects

Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone. They promote muscle growth and enhance performance. However, their use comes with a host of side effects that can be detrimental to both physical and mental health.

Many users report experiencing anxiety, mood swings, and aggressive behavior. This phenomenon is not surprising. When testosterone levels soar, so do emotions. It's crucial to acknowledge that while steroids can amplify physical capabilities, they can also cloud mental clarity.

The Risks Involved

• Physical Health Risks: Liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and hormonal imbalances.
• Mental Health Risks: Increased aggression, anxiety, and potential cognitive decline.
• Dependence: Users may find it challenging to stop using steroids, leading to a cycle of dependency.

Profound Impact on Dr. Mike's Mental Well-being

Dr. Israetel candidly shares his personal experiences with steroid use, highlighting the profound impact on mental well-being. He reveals the crippling anxiety and intrusive thoughts he encountered, stating, "Every day that I'm on high doses, I wake up in the morning afraid of the rest of my day. Intrusive thoughts. I think about violence all the time."

He attributes this to the surge in testosterone, remarking, "Well, if your testosterone is 25 times what it's supposed to be, what the hell do you think it's gonna make you think about?"

Decline in Cognitive Function

Beyond the immediate psychological effects, Dr. Israetel points to a concerning decline in cognitive function while using steroids. He observes, "Another one is a marked proximate reduction of IQ. Like right now, as I talk to you, I'm on contest prep." This cognitive impairment can significantly impact daily life and decision-making.

Long-term Risks?

Long-term health risks are also a major concern. Dr. Israetel warns of an elevated risk of heart disease, kidney failure, and various cancers associated with prolonged steroid use. He advises those considering this path to carefully weigh the potential benefits against these severe health consequences.

Libido and Fertility

Addressing the sensitive topic of libido and fertility, Dr. Israetel debunks myths while acknowledging potential side effects. He explains that while steroid use does not affect penis size, it can lead to testicular shrinkage in about half the users. He also notes a possible decrease in ejaculate volume and fertility, emphasizing that individual responses can vary.

The Truth About Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a hot topic, especially among men. Many misconceptions exist about its use and benefits. Understanding TRT is essential for anyone considering it.

What is TRT?

TRT is designed for individuals with low testosterone levels due to medical reasons. It’s not meant for those seeking to enhance their performance or physique. Misusing TRT can lead to severe health risks.

When someone takes testosterone without a medical need, they expose themselves to various side effects. These include increased anxiety, mood swings, and even cardiovascular issues.

Understanding the Risks

For those with clinically low testosterone, TRT can provide benefits. However, when testosterone levels are artificially elevated beyond normal ranges, the risks increase significantly. Long-term health can be compromised.

People must understand that using testosterone for performance enhancement is different from legitimate TRT. It's crucial to differentiate between the two.

Making Informed Decisions

Individuals should consult with medical professionals before considering TRT. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if TRT is appropriate. Symptoms of low testosterone should be assessed alongside blood tests.

It's essential to approach TRT with caution. Misguided use can lead to more harm than good.

The Impact of Misinformation

Misinformation about anabolic steroids permeates the fitness community. Many believe they are a quick fix for muscle gain, overlooking the potential dangers. This misunderstanding can lead to poor choices and health consequences.

Social media amplifies these myths. Influencers often promote steroids without discussing the risks. This creates a false narrative that can mislead aspiring athletes.

Combatting Misinformation

Education is the key to combatting misinformation. It's important to seek out credible sources and understand the science behind steroids. Knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

Engaging with professionals in the field can provide clarity. Medical experts can help navigate the complexities of steroid use and its consequences.

Practical Applications

• Get your testosterone levels checked before considering any hormone therapy. Normal ranges for adult males are between 300-1000 ng/dL. Anything below 300 ng/dL might warrant medical attention.
• Focus on natural testosterone optimization first:
  • Sleep 7-9 hours per night
  • Maintain body fat between 10-20%
  • Include 20-30g of healthy fats daily
  • Perform compound exercises 3-4 times per week
  • Manage stress levels through regular relaxation practices
• If considering TRT, work exclusively with qualified medical professionals:
  • Get comprehensive blood work every 3-6 months
  • Monitor estrogen levels alongside testosterone
  • Track both free and total testosterone
  • Document any side effects or mood changes
• Build muscle naturally through proven methods:
  • Train each muscle group 2-3 times per week
  • Consume 1.6-2.2g of protein per kg of body weight
  • Maintain a slight caloric surplus (10-20% above maintenance)
  • Focus on progressive overload in your training

Example 1: John, age 35, had testosterone levels of 280 ng/dL. Before jumping to TRT, he improved his sleep quality, reduced body fat from 25% to 15%, and increased healthy fat intake. After six months, his levels naturally rose to 440 ng/dL.

Fact-Check of Key Points

• Dr. Israetel's claim about cognitive decline during steroid use requires more context. While many users report mental fog and concentration issues, the direct link between steroid use and IQ reduction remains unclear. Individual experiences vary significantly.
• The statement about testosterone levels being "25 times" normal requires clarification. Most steroid users experience levels 2-10 times the natural range, depending on dosage. The 25x figure likely represents extreme cases or specific compounds.
• His observation about testicular shrinkage affecting "about half" of users appears conservative. Clinical evidence suggests this side effect occurs in the majority of steroid users, though the severity varies. The effect is typically reversible after discontinuing use.
• The connection between steroid use and violent thoughts deserves nuance. While increased aggression is well-documented, not all users experience violent ideation. Psychological predisposition and dosage play significant roles in behavioral changes.
• Regarding TRT, Dr. Israetel's distinction between therapeutic use and performance enhancement is accurate. However, the line between "low" and "normal" testosterone levels isn't as clear-cut as suggested, with different medical organizations using varying reference ranges.
• The expert warns of significant health risks, and while these are genuine concerns, the severity and likelihood can vary from person to person.
• Some athletes claim controlled use is manageable, but it's crucial to weigh the long-term consequences carefully.

These clarifications don't diminish the overall validity of Dr. Israetel's message about steroid risks, but they help provide a more complete picture of the current understanding in the field.

Science of Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone used to increase muscle mass and enhance athletic performance. Their effects span muscular, cardiovascular, endocrine, and psychological systems, often with both significant benefits and serious adverse consequences.

Evidence from Meta-Analyses

1. Muscle Mass and Strength: Meta-analyses confirm that anabolic steroids can significantly increase muscle mass and strength, with improvements of up to 20% in muscle strength and several kilograms in lean body mass. These effects are most notable in athletes who combine steroid use with resistance training (Hartgens & Kuipers, 2004).
2. Cardiovascular Risks: Anabolic steroid abuse has been linked to unfavorable cardiovascular outcomes, such as increased blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and alterations in lipid profiles (e.g., reduced HDL cholesterol and increased LDL cholesterol). These factors collectively raise the risk of hypertension and cardiac events (Vena et al., 2023), (George, 2003).
3. Psychiatric and Behavioral Effects: Users frequently experience increased aggression, mood swings, and a higher risk of psychiatric disorders, such as depression, especially upon withdrawal. Dependency and psychological disorders are seen in some long-term users (Malone et al., 1995).
4. Endocrine Disruptions: Steroid use disrupts natural testosterone production, leading to infertility, testicular atrophy, and gynecomastia in men, along with virilization effects in women. Recovery of endocrine function post-use may take months (Vena et al., 2023).
5. Hepatic and Renal Impact: The hepatotoxicity of orally administered steroids, particularly those modified to resist breakdown in the liver, can lead to significant liver damage, including tumors and toxicant-associated fatty liver disease. Kidney damage and increased risk of carcinomas have also been noted (Niedfeldt, 2018).

Overview of Side Effects

Research demonstrates that steroids can lead to a variety of physical and psychological side effects, especially with prolonged or high-dose use. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews reveal common complications across cardiovascular, reproductive, metabolic, and psychological health areas:

1. Cardiovascular Risks: High doses of AAS are associated with increased risks of hypertension, atherosclerosis, and even sudden cardiac events, likely due to lipid imbalances and coagulation changes that heighten cardiovascular strain (Bonetti et al., 2008), (Nieschlag & Vorona, 2015).
2. Reproductive Health: AAS use is consistently linked to reproductive issues, including reduced sperm production, fertility impairments, and hormonal imbalances that can lead to testicular atrophy and gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men) (Walter et al., 2023).
3. Liver Toxicity: AAS can cause liver damage, with risks of conditions like peliosis hepatis, adenomas, and even carcinomas due to the toxic nature of certain orally administered steroids (George, 2003).
4. Psychological and Behavioral Effects: There is evidence linking AAS to increased aggression, mood swings, and even psychosis in some users. Although these psychological side effects are usually reversible with cessation, they can lead to severe behavioral changes during use (Chegeni et al., 2021).

Practical Applications

• Athletic Performance: While anabolic steroids can greatly boost muscle strength and mass, the ethical and health risks make them unsuitable for use in sports. Education on natural alternatives and proper training regimens is crucial.
• Medical Oversight: Individuals using or considering AAS, particularly in sports contexts, should be monitored by healthcare providers to manage and potentially prevent severe side effects.
• Policy and Education: Educational programs on AAS risks should be prioritized in sports and fitness communities to reduce misuse and encourage alternative performance-enhancement methods.

Scientific Conclusion

Anabolic steroids are highly effective in enhancing muscle mass and strength but come with severe physical and psychological risks, particularly at the supraphysiological doses used illicitly. Their use remains a significant public health concern, demanding further research on long-term effects and improved prevention strategies.

Overall, AAS carry significant risks across multiple body systems, particularly when used in high doses or long-term. While they can enhance performance, the potential for severe and often irreversible side effects outweighs the benefits for most non-medical users.

More Little-Known Tips for Anabolic Steroid Risks

While we don't support steroids abuse, the following tips can help mitigate their harmful effects.

Cycle Planning:

• Schedule breaks from steroid use to let your body recover and minimize long-term damage.
• Example: Use an “on-cycle” for 12 weeks, followed by 12 weeks off to give your liver and hormones a break.

Hormone Management:

• Use post-cycle therapy (PCT) to help restore your natural hormone levels and prevent testosterone crashes.
• Tip: Common PCT options include Nolvadex or Clomid to balance hormone production.

Nutrition Support:

• Increase your intake of liver-friendly foods like leafy greens and antioxidant-rich berries to support detoxification.
• Example: Add turmeric or garlic to your diet for their natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Mental Health Monitoring:

• Watch for mood changes such as increased aggression or anxiety, and be prepared to seek help if needed.
• Tip: Keeping a mood journal can help you track and address potential issues early.

My Opinion on Anabolic Steroid Risks

I believe that anabolic steroids are a dangerous shortcut in the world of fitness. While I understand the appeal—rapid muscle growth, increased strength, and the ability to push past natural limits—I can't ignore the severe health risks involved. To me, the potential for liver damage, heart problems, and mental health issues simply isn’t worth it.

I also get why some athletes argue that steroids level the playing field or help them recover faster from grueling workouts. But I disagree with the notion that this justifies their use. I think prioritizing short-term gains over long-term health is a gamble that can have irreversible consequences. There are safer, proven ways to maximize performance without endangering your well-being.

Moreover, I think the culture of steroids creates unrealistic expectations for newcomers in the fitness community. It sends the message that progress is impossible without chemical enhancement, which I fundamentally oppose. Fitness should be about discipline, smart training, and celebrating natural progress, not relying on artificial boosts that harm your body and mind.

Concluding on Anabolic Steroid Risks

The conversation with Dr. Mike reveals a stark reality: the pursuit of enhanced physique through steroids comes at a steep price.

Dr. Israetel's honesty about his struggles with anxiety, aggression, and cognitive decline serves as a potent reminder that the desire for physical perfection can have devastating consequences for overall well-being. His insights provide a valuable resource for anyone considering the use of anabolic steroids, urging careful consideration of the potential risks and long-term implications.

In summary, while anabolic steroids may seem like a fast track to fitness success, they come with dangerous repercussions. The promise of quick muscle growth is overshadowed by the severe health risks, from hormonal imbalances to long-term mental health impacts. Misunderstandings and misinformation often drive people toward these substances, but a well-informed approach is always safer.

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FAQ

What should I do if I want to start lifting weights?

Start with light weights and focus on form. Gradually increase the weight as you feel comfortable. Consistency is key.

Is TRT safe for everyone?

TRT is only safe for individuals with clinically low testosterone levels. Misusing testosterone can lead to severe health issues.

How can I maintain my mental health while pursuing fitness goals?

Incorporate mindfulness practices, engage in regular exercise, and seek professional help if necessary. Balancing physical and mental health is essential for overall well-being.