TRT and the use of anabolic steroids both improve aspects of physical performance. However, properly administered TRT can help men lead a healthy lifestyle as they age, while anabolic steroid use for bodybuilding and competitive fitness poses more risks than benefits. Following is a breakdown of the benefits and risks of TRT compared with the many risks of anabolic steroid use for bodybuilding.
BENEFITS OF TRT
- Boosting Energy
- Increasing libido to enable the enjoyment of a healthy sex life
- Reduction in fat and increase in muscle mass and strength
- Promote greater bone density and bone strength
- Improvement in the ability to concentrate
- Better mood and higher levels of concentration
- Enhanced athletic endurance and performance.
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR TRT
While properly administered TRT carries minimal risk for men who have low testosterone levels, it is contraindicated for individuals who have prostate cancer, benign prostate disease, sleep apnea, or are extremely overweight.
RISKS OF STEROID USE FOR BODYBUILDING
Many bodybuilders and athletes who seek to attain extraordinary performance levels use a variety of substances, including anabolic steroids. Some of these steroids are synthetic modifications of testosterone. Those individuals who use synthetic testosterone often reach supra-physiological levels, which put them at risk for heart disease and other serious conditions. Following are some serious health risks from using steroids to improve bodybuilding performance:
- Enlarged breasts
- Baldness
- Testicular shrinkage
- Impotence
- Reduction in fertility
- Enlargement of the prostate gland
