Testosterone boosters have been rising in the market due to high demand. But a common question that bugs many people is this question− are testosterone boosters steroids?
The answer to this question is both YES and NO! Testosterone is indeed a type of steroid hormone that is naturally produced and enhances athletic attributes in the body.
However, you are probably asking if the supplementary substances known as testosterone boosters are the same as illegal anabolic steroids.
In this case, the answer is NO.
Although there are some similarities in the purposes of their consumption, the way they function is quite different.
So, here in this blog, we’ll go through all the significant differences between testosterone boosters and steroids. Therefore, binge on till the very end!
The Primary Difference
Steroids are synthetically created testosterone that stimulates mass muscle growth in the body.
On the other hand, testosterone boosters use natural substances such as herbs, vitamins, and other compounds to trigger the natural production of testosterone in the body.
Testosterone Boosters Vs. Steroids − The Working Mechanism
Here in this section, we’ve provided a brief explanation regarding the working mechanism of both these substances.
Testosterone Boosters
As we age, the testosterone level in our body starts to go down, causing obesity, fatigue, reduced sexual drive, hair fall, and less beard growth.
So, testosterone boosters are actually supplements that attempt to fix these issues by increasing testosterone levels in the body.
However, unlike what some might assume, these boosters aren’t injected into your body, and it’s made out of natural remedies to increase testosterone.
These boosters target the adrenal gland, which causes the system to naturally increase testosterone production levels.
Steroids
Steroids have a negative reputation due to popular media portraying them as malicious drugs that deteriorate and break down the body gradually.
Now, it’s entirely a misconception that steroids do not have any medically prescribed use!
Doctors may often use this synthetically manufactured version of testosterone to treat diseases like hypogonadism or even low testosterone.
Unlike testosterone boosters, steroids are synthetically created forms of testosterone hormones.
Steroids work by stimulating muscle tissues to make them bigger. This process mimics the effect of naturally produced testosterone in the body.
Moreover, bodybuilders and athletes often use steroids to get into shape with minimum training quickly.
The Benefits and Risks of Using Testosterone Boosters
As discussed above, testosterone deficiency may cause many conditions in the body ranging from sexual disorders to a lack of beard growth.
All of these can be treated by using testosterone boosters. Let’s give you a detailed account of these benefits −
Improved Sexual Performance
Intake of testosterone boosters has been reported to improve sexual desires and even drastically improve overall sexual performance.
Hair growth
Testosterone deficiency is a major cause of hair fall among men and women. A proper and consistent dosage of this supplement may help to fix the issue.
Ensures Fitness
When combined with training and exercise, testosterone causes stronger lean muscles to grow in the body and reduce fat. It also strengthens our hearts and improves blood flow.
Improved Mood
Unnatural reduction in testosterone levels can cause fatigue and depression.
This condition is also known as hypogonadism. Research shows that testosterone boosters can drastically help with this disease.
Risks
Well, some testosterone boosters are also considered unsafe by medical professionals.
Testosterone boosters that contain a substance known as L-arginine can cause undesirable side effects if consumed in dosages greater than 30 grams.
Uses and Risks of Steroids
The healthy benefits of steroids are few, but abuses are many. There are a few certain conditions when steroid consumption may be advisable.
Here’s how steroids can come in handy −
Organ Transplant
After a fresh new organ transplantation, the body may consider the new organ an intruder and might start to reject it.
Steroids in this suppress the immune system and decrease the risk of organ rejection.
Covid 19
Steroids are known to be anti-inflammatory. Some covid patients afflicted with severe inflammation have been cured using steroids.
These inflammations have the potential to injure the lung and cause organ failure.
Allergies
Steroids can be used to treat allergic diseases such as hay fever, asthma, and other common allergies. But always under the supervision of a medical expert!
Besides these, there are, of course, common reasons why athletes use steroids.
Such as increased muscle strength and power, decreased body fat, better recovery from injury, and increased red blood cell production.
Side Effects
The side effects of using steroids make this drug very risky to consume. They include but are not limited to the following factors −
Aggressive Behavior
Male teenagers and adults are easily susceptible to this. Steroids can increase impulsive behavior and aggression.
Affect Body Image
Over-dependence on steroids can result in mental health disorder that causes you to be anxious about your body image.
Causes Infertility
Steroid intake decreases sperm production at a massive level. This can even lead to male infertility.
Potential Heart Diseases
Steroid consumption combined with certain exercises will increase the size of the heart’s left ventricle, which can cause heart diseases and potentially even death.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are testosterone boosters good for women?
Well, testosterone boosters tend to have more adverse effects than benefits on women. So, it’s recommended not to consume it without a doctor’s recommendation.
Do testosterone boosters cure erectile dysfunction?
Nope! No such reports show testosterone boosters to aid with erectile dysfunction.
Do steroids affect periods?
Yes, steroids can make periods irregular and even disrupt the menstruation cycle.
How long do steroids take to work?
It depends, actually! Intake of steroids usually works within one to four days.
Bottom line
So, are testosterone boosters steroids? Well, not really! Instead, both have their benefits and side effects, but testosterone boosters are much safer and freer of risks.
However, it is a must to consult a medical adviser before taking any of them to avoid any kind of risks and mishaps.
References −
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Bassil, N., Alkaade, S., & Morley, J. E. (2009). The benefits and risks of testosterone replacement therapy: a review. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management, 5, 427-448. https://doi.org/10.2147/tcrm.s3025
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Piacentino, D., Kotzalidis, G. D., Casale, A. D., Aromatario, M. R., Pomara, C., Girardi, P., & Sani, G. (2015). Anabolic-androgenic Steroid use and Psychopathology in Athletes. A Systematic Review. Current Neuropharmacology, 13(1), 101-121. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159X13666141210222725
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