Steroids
What Advantages Do Drug-Free, Natural Bodybuilders Have Over Steroid-Taking Bodybuilders Later in Life?
The topic is about the comparison that would be considered between natural versus steroid-using bodybuilder. Both practices have associated benefits and hazards. We have observed the variety of steroids and individual responses to varied steroid cycles and dosages levels.
Overall, steroid hazards suggest that drug use is abusive but if a person has naturally low testosterone level, then steroids can develop positive effects in his old age if used properly. It has been observed that professional bodybuilders when stopped steroids use their bodies turned into weaker and smaller forms.
Steroids / Product Description:
Steroids increase muscle mass and provide strength that can be maintained throughout the life phases while on the other hand it also has associated potential risks of heart failure, neurological degeneration, lung and kidney problems etc.
Natural Bodybuilding:
Natural bodybuilding seems an awesome idea for new adapters. It refers to all-natural, means no drugs or steroids and that will also enable them to clear drug tests. It needs more hard cycles.
The topic will highlight that either is it possible to gain the same benefits by natural bodybuilding and what thoughts can be presented to exemplify it and flourish a positive stance toward it. Olympia history shows that in 1989a Haney won by beating the Labrada due to his higher muscle strength and bigger body physique. “The Bigger the Winner” perception has prevailed since then.
Read more: 6 Famous Mr. Olympia of All Time
Legal Restrictions For Steroids Use:
There is a need to work on legal supplements as IFBB has pressure to ban steroids. The IFBB needs to initiate serious testing procedures and mechanisms or monitoring to actually ban steroids. It will impose high costs every year. The question comes either the business will remain profit-generating!!
The Visual Difference Between a Natural vs. Drug-User Bodybuilder:
There seems a big difference between natural and drug-user bodybuilder. The difference is absolutely massive. The problem is with the bodybuilders who use very massive drug doses. Bodybuilding profession relies on the looks. Out of best body shape means out of a career!
Jocelyn Pelletier in 1995 games appeared in plays and he was on steroids; when he quitted those steroids his look changed. But, he was not drastically affected because he continued natural boy building and remained at winning the edge.
Steroids takers surely seem bigger than a natural bodybuilder, but natural can take other natural steroids and protein diets to attain bulging muscles in a free side-effect environment, however, it takes more time and long-lasting effects.
Steroid Use vs. Natural Body Building Perspectives:
- Its use is easy and you can easily reach to 155lb while 225 5X5 benchings. However by natural modes, it requires more determination, even you have severe pains and more sacrifice and after all, the winning with no guilt and shame. It means that you are the quality player or bodybuilder because you have adopted quality produce and good maintenance that will give you a healthier and longer life.
- Steroids take to you toward early death and lead to an addicted society that seems all artificial. While natural bodybuilding leads to healthy and natural society.
- Oral steroids cause liver issues that need you to take other liver protection drug supplements. Moreover, heart, cholesterol level, and blood pressure issues are other consequences. You may need cosmetic surgery to turn back to their normal body look, while there is no such case with natural bodybuilding.
Steroids Side Effects:
- Adolescent boys 6.5% while girls 1.9% are using steroids randomly. “Steroids are death calls” and you can switch to good food, and normal supplements to get the same good results.
- Anabolic steroids are artificial substances that boost the development of natural hormone production that promotes masculine characteristics in men. You need to inject much other testosterone balancing or HGH hormones. If you do not take quality food and just rely on them, it brings evil results.
- The problem comes with severe side effects such as liver tumors, fluid retention, jaundice, heart enlargement, heart failure and trembling. For men testicles shrinking, sperm reduction, infertility, baldness, and breasts enlarging while for women facial hair growth, menstrual cycle stoppage or disturbance, clitoris enlargement, and voice deepening have been observed.
Benefits:
- With steroids, you need fewer hours of rest, while natural bodybuilders require rest for about 48 hours to train again for muscle exercising.
- Moreover, they train for a 3-4 times/ week, with 1-hour duration, while steroids users train 6 times /week, because they have more energy, they can choose any time with 2 hours duration for gym training to get bigger and stronger, thus natural bodybuilder to have less time to get overtrained.
Apparent Changes:
Steroid use produces apparent changes that are muscle or weight gain, the appearance of spots on the different body parts and skin darkening, etc. A journal was published in 1997 "Cardiology" has described the long-term effects of steroid usage on heart function. One was 15 years drug user while it was seen in comparison with the natural builder, and they were 20 years trained. This scientific study revealed the abnormalities in steroid users in heart muscles, and high-density lipids levels.
The study confirmed that in this way you get a great body that is also the sick body.
Natural vs. Steroids Practices:
- Natural bodybuilders need heavy weight training.
- Steroids use always generates significant effects. The study revealed that steroid bodybuilders gained 3 times higher muscle mass than natural guys; both had the same diet and routine patterns and 13lbs difference was observed within the same time period.
- For natural bodybuilders, it is the matter to consider diet, training, supplements, and products they use.
Natural Bodybuilding Benefits:
Natural bodybuilders have:
- High and improved strength that you get as a result of high physical activity,
- You get a better and natural look that you get by lifting weights and by getting proper nutrition.
- You also get improved aging because your inner organs strengthen these activities.
- Good quality of life with no depression or inner causes of hypertension aggressiveness.
Natural Bodybuilders:
It has been argued by the writer that there are no natural bodybuilders with > 210lbs weight or if there are they remained on steroids for some part of their life that created permanent physiological changes. The modern era is full of cheaters. It is the natural bodybuilding physique.
This is the difference between natural vs. drug user.
Read more: What to Choose Between Natural Bodybuilding And Steroids?
Mike O’Hearn a Natural Bodybuilder:
Mike O’Hearn is a bodybuilder of the USA who won the title of Mr. Universe and fitness model many times.
He was not a steroid user as he passed the Drug Tests. O'Hearn passed polygraph, urine or blood tests on random bases throughout the year after he won the title.
He had gifted genetics
Age 14 and 41:
There were no visual signs observed for steroid-use that are the appearance of bald, acne, water retention, bloated, flushed skin, and vascular issues.
However, genetic does not only matters!
Ronnie Coleman:
It is said that e Ronnie Coleman was natural who won IFBB drug tested universal Championship of 1991 and could not achieve high ranked in Mr. Olympia's till the 1990s. However, after 1995, he showed a change and won many series consistently. His young version was drug-free, similarly, Kai Greene many years competed naturally, and then he used PEDs that brought his genetic to unbelievable potential.
Natural Body-Building Requirements:
You need to stimulate body muscles; you need rest and exercise alternative patterns.
There is the scientific reason, like protein synthesis takes 48 hours, so you can manage three times training/week to grow better as compared to other to go for training twice/ week.
Weight lifting and exercises are performed during a training session. Compound exercises involve squats day 1, leg extensions day 2, with bench press day 1 and cable crossovers day 2.
You can work with increasing load with time from 100 to 110Ib and reduce rest time between training sets from 120 to 30 minutes, increase training intensity and repetitions of lifting, also employ periodization strategy. Always take a start with less intensive mode to heavy mode of training.
Must Read: How to Maintain Shape After Leaving Body Building
It requires complete planning of exercise with the patterns of using squats, leg curls, bench press, rows, chin-ups, lateral raises, and calf raises, an exercise with your daily routine. Natural mode raises strongman. They have to follow work-out set for daily and weekly bases that extends to the period they are getting trained for.
Facts:
- Strength training involves weights lifting and specialized nutrition requires extra protein intake, and adequate rest, including sleep and recuperation between workouts.
- Natural bodybuilding will improve your hormonal production and maintenance level until the older age when compared with steroid user. The steroid bodybuilder would be on HRT therapy due to steroids shutting that reduces the natural production of testosterone
- The liver and heart of natural bodybuilder will be in better condition when compared with the steroid user.
- Sudden quitting of the hormone will badly affect the physique. While natural mode with consistent training and a good diet will keep you living healthy life long.
Useful Tips:
The first thing is that the steroid use for a long period makes you never get your health or physical look back. In that case, you need the therapy for hormone replacement and the other issues you face are bone density, body fat alteration, muscularity, libido, and many more that are the areas of concern. Youngers less than age -23 years if using it ruin their bodies and systems permanently. So, think first about natural bodybuilding for long-lasting health benefits.
- Natural bodybuilding abstains from the use of anabolic steroids, diuretics, insulin, and HGH. Natural bodybuilders also use supplements for bodybuilding such as:
- Whey Protein:
- Fat Burner:
- BCAA:
Bodybuilding supplements are chosen according to the body type and requirement of nutrition. They may be protein powder, health supplements, testosterone booster, and others with dietician guidance.
Must Read Our Article: Top 20 Weight Loss Bodybuilding Supplements to Try This Summer
Steroids
Mushroom Chitosan for Skin Care: A Plant-Based Option for Skincare
Mushroom chitosan is a prominent ingredient in the skincare industry, celebrated for its compatibility with skin, moisturizing properties, and its role in wound healing and skin regeneration. Extracted from the cell walls of specific mushrooms, this eco-friendly, plant-based alternative to traditional chitosan (which is typically derived from shellfish) has recently gained considerable attention. It is swiftly becoming a favored ingredient in products designed to enhance skin texture, reduce inflammation, and improve moisture retention. This article delves into the science behind mushroom chitosan, its skin benefits, and how it compares to other popular ingredients.
Chitosan Overview
Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide traditionally obtained from the exoskeletons of shellfish like shrimp and crabs. However, mushroom chitosan, derived from fungi such as Aspergillus niger and Agaricus bisporus, offers a plant-based, vegan-friendly alternative. It provides similar benefits without the allergens or ethical concerns associated with animal-derived ingredients.
What It Does
Mushroom chitosan exhibits excellent biocompatibility, meaning it works well with human skin without causing irritation or allergic reactions. It is also biodegradable and sustainable, making it a particularly appealing option for eco-conscious consumers.
Mushroom chitosan forms a protective film on the skin’s surface, which helps retain moisture and shields the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and harmful bacteria. This barrier function also enhances the skin’s ability to retain water, making it especially beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.
Chitosan Magic
Additionally, chitosan has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent and treat skin infections. It promotes wound healing by accelerating the regeneration of skin cells, making it useful for post-inflammatory conditions like acne scars or minor cuts. Here is a summary of the main benefits of using mushroom chitosan:
Enhanced Hydration
Mushroom chitosan’s film-forming ability helps lock in moisture, maintaining the skin’s hydration levels. This is especially beneficial for dry, dehydrated skin or for maintaining a healthy moisture barrier.
Anti-inflammatory
Chitosan has been shown to reduce inflammation, which can soothe irritated or red skin. This makes it effective for people dealing with sensitive skin conditions like eczema or rosacea.
Chitosan Wound Healing and Skin Repair
Studies have shown that chitosan accelerates the skin’s natural healing process, making it a valuable ingredient for wound care and the recovery of damaged skin. It supports the regeneration of healthy skin cells, which can help minimize scarring and promote overall skin health.
Chitosan Antimicrobial Properties
Its ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi can help reduce breakouts and skin infections, providing a natural solution for acne-prone skin.
Anti-aging Benefits
Mushroom chitosan supports the skin’s elasticity and firmness by maintaining moisture levels and protecting it from oxidative stress, making it an effective anti-aging ingredient. By reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving texture, it contributes to a smoother, youthful complexion.
Related Article: Why A Newbie Must Use Electrolytes
Let's Compare it With Traditional Skin Products
Hyaluronic Acid: Mushroom chitosan and hyaluronic acid are both excellent for retaining moisture in the skin. However, chitosan also offers antimicrobial and wound-healing benefits, making it a multifunctional ingredient.
Collagen: Both ingredients aim to improve skin texture and elasticity. While collagen helps firm and plump the skin, mushroom chitosan focuses on moisture retention, repair, and protective qualities, offering a more comprehensive approach to skincare.
Traditional Chitosan: Mushroom chitosan has an edge over traditional shellfish-derived chitosan as it is plant-based and hypoallergenic. People with shellfish allergies can use it safely, and it’s also suitable for vegans and those seeking sustainable skincare options.
Main Products Containing Mushroom Chitosan
Moisturizers and Serums: As a potent humectant, mushroom chitosan is increasingly used in moisturizing products to boost skin hydration, enhancing the skin’s natural barrier.
Acne Treatments: Thanks to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, mushroom chitosan is an excellent ingredient in acne-fighting formulas, reducing bacterial growth while calming inflamed skin.
Wound Healing Creams: Given its regenerative abilities, mushroom chitosan is often included in creams designed to speed up wound healing or reduce scarring, especially for acne-prone skin or post-skin procedures.
Anti-aging Products: Mushroom chitosan’s ability to retain moisture and support the skin’s elasticity makes it a key ingredient in anti-aging serums and creams, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Overall
Mushroom chitosan is an exciting, versatile ingredient in skincare that addresses multiple concerns, from hydration and inflammation to skin repair and protection. As a vegan-friendly, eco-conscious alternative to traditional chitosan, it offers a sustainable and effective solution for enhancing skin health. With its broad range of benefits and gentle nature, mushroom chitosan is poised to become a staple in modern skincare.
Steroids
Glutathione – The Most Underrated Antioxidant
Glutathione, often referred to as the "Master Antioxidant," plays a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals and maintaining cellular health, making it an excellent supplement for bodybuilders across all age groups. Its ability to support liver detoxification, reduce inflammation, and enhance immune function is particularly beneficial for those undergoing intense training or using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
Must Read: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Hormone
As mentioned, it is a potent antioxidant that the body produces naturally. It plays a key role in detoxification, immune function, and maintaining cellular health.
How Can It Help You?
Glutathione neutralizes harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and shielding cells from damage. This is especially critical for individuals using anabolic steroids or other PEDs, as these substances can increase oxidative stress, burden the liver, and hinder recovery.
Key Benefits of Glutathione Include
- Liver Detoxification: Aids the liver in processing toxins, particularly those introduced by PED use.
- Reduced Inflammation: Helps mitigate systemic inflammation, enhancing recovery and lowering injury risk.
- Enhanced Immunity: Bolsters the immune system, keeping you healthier during intense training cycles.
Additionally, it supports skin health, reduces signs of fatigue, and promotes a general sense of well-being, making it invaluable for athletes focused on both performance and longevity.
How Is It Used?
Glutathione can be taken orally (in liposomal or reduced forms) or via injections for better bioavailability. A typical dose is 500–1000 mg daily if taken orally, or the same amount once a week if injected.
Are There Side Effects?
The hormone is usually well-tolerated. Rare side effects may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort or skin rashes, but these are uncommon. Injected glutathione is considered safe when properly administered.
Alternatives to Glutathione
There are several alternatives to glutathione that can help support your body's antioxidant defenses and overall health:
Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals and can also help regenerate glutathione in the body.
Vitamin E: Another potent antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC): A precursor to glutathione, NAC can help boost the levels in the body.
Selenium: This trace mineral works synergistically with glutathione to enhance its antioxidant effects.
Milk Thistle: Known for its liver-protective properties, milk thistle can help support glutathione production.
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): This antioxidant helps regenerate other antioxidants, including glutathione, and can improve overall antioxidant capacity.
Curcumin: Found in turmeric, curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Green Tea Extract: Rich in catechins, green tea extract provides powerful antioxidant benefits.
These alternatives can help maintain your body's antioxidant defenses and support overall health.
Legality of Glutathione Across Different Countries and Territories
The legality of glutathione supplements varies across different countries and territories. Here's a general overview:
United States
Glutathione supplements are widely available and legal in the U.S. They are regulated by the FDA under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 19942. The FDA requires that supplements be labeled accurately and that they are safe for consumption.
Canada
In Canada, glutathione supplements are also legal and regulated by Health Canada. They must meet the Natural Health Products Regulations, ensuring safety, efficacy, and quality.
European Union
Glutathione supplements are legal in the EU and are regulated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). They must comply with the EU's Novel Food Regulation if they are marketed as a new food product.
Australia
In Australia, glutathione supplements are legal and regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). They must be listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) to be legally sold.
Japan
Its supplements are legal in Japan and are regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW). They must be approved as dietary supplements.
India
In India, glutathione supplements are legal and regulated by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). They must comply with the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
Other Countries
The legality of glutathione supplements can vary in other countries, and it's essential to check local regulations before purchasing or using them. Some countries may have stricter regulations or require specific approvals for dietary supplements.
Don't Miss: How to Manage Joint Stiffness While on AAS
It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or regulatory authority in your specific country to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations on the use of Glutathione.
Overall
By mitigating oxidative stress, glutathione helps in faster recovery, reducing injury risks, and promoting overall well-being. Additionally, its role in boosting skin health and combating fatigue adds to its appeal, contributing to both performance and longevity. However, it is essential for users to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety and efficacy, as individual needs and responses can vary. Glutathione's multifaceted benefits make it a valuable tool in the arsenal of bodybuilders aiming to optimize their health and performance.
Bodybuilding
Top Video Games for Bodybuilders in 2024
There are several video games that can be great for bodybuilders, combining fitness and fun! Here are some of the best options:
Ring Fit Adventure (Nintendo Switch)
The game uses the Ring-Con and Leg Strap to guide you through various exercises and adventures. It's a fun way to get a full-body workout while playing a game.
Fitness Boxing 2: VR Boxing Remastered (PlayStation VR)
It offers a full-body boxing workout with a variety of punches and combos. It's a great way to improve your fitness while enjoying a virtual boxing experience.
Must Read: Marvel-Inspired Training Clothing on Amazon
Just Dance 2024
This popular dance game gets you moving to the beat with a variety of songs and dance routines. It's a fun way to burn calories and improve your coordination.
Zumba Fitness
Burn It Off (Nintendo Wii): This game offers a fun and energetic Zumba workout, perfect for those who enjoy dancing and want to get a good cardio workout.
Yoga for Beginners
If you're looking for a more relaxing workout, yoga games can help improve flexibility and reduce stress. Many of these games offer guided yoga sessions that you can follow along with.
Gym Tycoon
This game lets you build and manage your own gym, complete with various workout equipment and fitness classes. It's a great way to learn about different exercises and how to create effective workout routines.
The Sims 4: Fitness Stuff Pack
This expansion pack for The Sims 4 adds fitness equipment and activities to the game, allowing you to improve your character's fitness and join the athlete career.
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
While not a traditional fitness game, this classic game includes bodybuilding activities that can help your character gain muscle and improve fitness.
Knockout Home Fitness (Nintendo Switch)
This game offers a variety of boxing workouts that can help improve your strength and endurance.
Gym Simulator 24 (PC)
In this simulation game, you can build and manage your own fitness empire, creating workout routines and managing gym equipment.
Let's Get Fit (Nintendo Switch)
This game focuses on pure workouts, allowing you to set programs and follow along with digital trainers for a customized fitness experience.
Beat Saber (VR)
A popular VR game where you slash blocks to the beat of the music, providing an intense full-body workout.
Synth Riders (PlayStation VR)
This game combines freestyle dance and fitness, offering high-tempo tracks and multiplayer modes for a fun and energetic workout.
Yoga Master (PlayStation)
Designed by professional yoga coaches, this game offers a variety of yoga lessons and poses to improve flexibility and reduce stress.
Les Mills Bodycombat (PlayStation VR)
A martial arts-inspired workout game with a range of workout plans and coaching to keep you motivated.
OhShape Ultimate (PlayStation VR)
This game provides a full-body cardio workout with six sessions and two difficulty levels, designed to engage every part of your body.
These games offer a mix of cardio, strength, and flexibility workouts, making them great additions to your fitness routine.
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