Anabolic Steroids vs. Natural Protein Supplements

Individuals considering taking anabolics should know that the United States government regards taking these substances without a doctor's prescription as illegal. Serious athletes engaged in Olympic or National Collegiate Athletic Association sports face fines, suspension and even ineligibility for using anabolics. Some athletes opt to use natural protein supplements as a safer alternative.

Anabolics: Athletes and bodybuilders use the term "anabolics" to refer to the use of muscle-building supplements called anabolic-androgenic steroids, according to the National Institutes of Health website. The word anabolic references the steroid's ability to build muscles. The word androgenic refers to the drug's ability to enhance the development of some male sexual characteristics in individuals.

Protein Supplements: Protein supplements, which are derived from protein sources like milk and soy, commonly come in powder, liquid or bar forms. An athlete or body builder can add protein supplements to his diet for a variety of reasons, including muscle growth. However, information provided by Medline Plus explains that scientific research has repeatedly proven that protein supplements do not cause muscle growth. The only sure way to promote changes in muscle size is through exercise and strength training.

Pressure to be Muscular: Men feeling pressure to become more muscular may choose unhealthy behaviors in order to attain a "better" body, according to a research study authored by Tracy Tylka, assistant professor of psychology at The Ohio State University. The results of Tylka's study, presented at the August 2006 annual meeting of the American Psychological Association, found that men who are unhappy with their muscle size are more likely to say they used protein supplements and thought about using steroids.

Teens: Teens, along with adults, suffer from body image problems. While girls generally want to slim down, boys would like to be taller and more muscular, states the KidsHealth from Nemours website. This desire to become stronger and taller can lead some teenagers to use steroids and protein supplements.

Side Effects: Consuming a high-protein diet including protein supplements can place a strain on your kidneys. The side effects of anabolic steroids can include prematurely stunted growth, sterility, the acceleration of bone maturation and congestive heart failure. NIDA warns effects specific to guys includes severe acne, shrinking of the testicles, baldness and breast development. Girls taking anabolic steroids may experience growth of facial hair, enlargement of the clitoris and an irreversible deepened voice.

References: NIDA for Teens: Anabolic Steroids
EurekAlert: Pressure to be More Muscular May Lead Men to Unhealthy Behaviors
MedlinePlus: Nutrition and Athletic Performance
TeensHealth: Sports Supplements
MedlinePlus: Protein in Diet

* If you found this article informative, please rate it at the top of the page and feel free to place a link to it in your blog or on your favorite social networking website.