Breaking the myth of steroids causing hair loss

Baldness is one of the most feared side effect related to steroid use. All those who are against steroid consumption tell that anabolics are responsible for losing hair and you have to avoid them. Is this indeed true? Are they so bad for hair or there is something else that you have to know?

Take some time to understand hair loss from steroids. Experts say that male pattern baldness is caused by the increase of DHT hormone. It attaches to hair follicles and cause them to thin. If not interrupted, it may lead to permanently hair loss.

So the main factor liable for hair loss in indeed DHT.

But there is a big BUT. It is true only when individual has already genetical proneness to baldness. If it is not present, then hair loss when taking steroids is not as harmful.

How do steroids cause hair loss?

Being prone to hair loss means that you already have high DHT level in your body. Once you begin steroid consumption DHT will go higher, hence you experience a powerful baldness.

If you are not genetically predisposed to develop baldness, taking steroids is not going to trigger such a process, due to DHT level which will be in normal limits. In case of individuals who already have problems with baldness, steroids just worsen the situation.

Not all steroids are quility for developing baldness. Some of them do it in a high degree, while others a pretty safe.

Worst steroids for hair loss

Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is a popular steroids but with dramatic impact on hair loss. Because of its rapidity to run into estrogen and DHT, is quite difficult to control hair loss while being on Anadrol. Stay away of it if you already have hair problems. It’s definitely not for you.

Anavar (Oxandrolone) is one of the safest steroid, but can trigger hair loss when taken in a dosage higher than 100 mg. 

Deca-Durabolin is a good choice if you are trying to avoid hair loss issues. But it has to be stacked with testosterone, which automatically increase the risk to get higher DHT level. Taken alone is not just risky, but it will left with no sex drive and energy within just dozens of day.

What can be worse than this? Mixing Deca-durabolin with a 5AR inhibitor like Finasteride. Androgenic properties of Deca-durabolin would go wild, resulting in a strong hair loss effect.

Equipoise (Boldenone undecylenate), Primobolan (Methenolone), Superdrol ( Methasterone) and Testosterone have weaker effect on hair loss, but the risk is still present. Is better to avoid them if you present signs of hair loss.

How to stay away of baldness caused by steroids?

There are two possibilities:

1. Keep DHT level lower through limiting or even omitting at all steroids that acute hair loss.

2. The use of topical medications.

When testosterone or DHT level is extremely high in the body topical creams or gels are inefficient. You will find dozens of recommendations but just few of them can be of real help. Therefore, be careful with your choice.

Steroids will speed up the hair loss if you are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness. If you have previous cases of baldness in your family keep you hands off steroids if you dare your hair. Or at least, cut from your list the ones with worsen effect on hair.

Low Testosterone Myth and Truth

Low testosterone is a conditioned suffered by millions of men and while remedy is readily available the vast majority does little to nothing about it. In some cases it could be laziness but in most it’s simply a lack of education; when you don’t know or understand something the simplest thing in the world can be akin to trying to understand the most complicated aspects of human thought. Even so, while many men remain in the dark increasingly many more are coming into the light so to speak and doing something about their low testosterone problem; after all, it is a condition no man has to live with and once remedied the normal statement is “why didn’t I do this sooner?”

As education has begun to increase so have the myths and lies that surround it, as the only true treatment for low testosterone is anabolic steroids; this should come as no surprise. Many men are so afraid of anabolic steroids they’ll do anything to avoid them even if it means convincing themselves of half-truths; as the old saying goes, it’s not a lie if you believe it but unfortunately it simply doesn’t work this way. In truth, to understand low testosterone and the treatment involved you need to understand anabolic steroids and when you understand them you’ll understand they are not medications in the common sense of the word but rather synthetic hormones identical to the ones you already produce; however, as you now suffer from low testosterone you now produce far less.

Low testosterone can affect a man negatively in a host of ways from ruining his physique, draining his energy, destroying his sexual performance or even desire to a host of other mental and physical problems. Many men often attribute this to age but it doesn’t have to be this way and in-fact, man was not intended to fall into this state; much of it is often brought on by us. While this remains true and taking care of one’s self will aid in keeping testosterone levels adequate many times that is not enough. There are things you can do to aid in remedy in a natural sense but if you truly suffer from low testosterone actual testosterone therapy is going to be the only course of true action.

We have taken some of the most common myths revolving around low testosterone and the treatment thereof and left you with only the truth. While you find there is still much more to learn hopefully you’ll find this to be a good starting point. Each and every myth discussed is taken right from some of the most popular message boards that deal in such discussion but it is here we will put some of these myths to rest.

Myth:
If you suffer from true low testosterone brought on simply by age you can remedy the problem with diet and exercise.

Truth:
It is true, exercise can increase testosterone levels and some foods have been shown to do the same; foods such as eggs and red meat are two very good foods for aiding in such a cause but the increase in testosterone from diet and exercise is so miniscule that for an individual suffering from low testosterone it’s hardly worth mentioning. If you suffer from low testosterone and desire a remedy the only remedy that will aid in your cause is true testosterone therapy.

Myth:
Once you begin testosterone therapy and your levels return to normal you will eventually be able to discontinue therapy and remain at a stable level.

Truth:
If you suffer from true low testosterone you will always suffer from low testosterone; if you are over the age of 40 this is guaranteed and in many cases those over 30 years of age will find the same to be true. However, while continuous lifelong therapy sounds very annoying isn’t it better than low testosterone; of course it is. Now there is an exception to this rule; an individual who has brought low testosterone upon himself due to years of anabolic steroid use may be able to stimulate natural testosterone production again to an adequate level and discontinue therapy once this is achieved; however, while possible it is unlikely. Any individual over the age of 40 will never be able to accomplish this and even a younger individual will have a very difficult time.

Myth:
Low testosterone treatment plans are all the same as the hormone in each is simply that of testosterone.

Truth:
Testosterone therapy can occur in many forms, from injectable and transdermal creams and patches and even subcutaneous pellets implanted under the skin. In the end it is true, with each form of therapy you are receiving the same testosterone hormone but the efficiency and effectiveness of each form varies greatly. Without question injectable testosterone is the most efficient and effective form of testosterone therapy, as through injections the needed testosterone is placed directly into the blood. While transdermal medications will absorb into the blood many men find difficulty in achieving proper levels with this form making it the least desirable of the four. If injections are not an option for whatever reason testosterone implant pellets are a fine choice and often all the testosterone an individual will need.

The Side Effects Of Anabolic Steroids: Truth Or Myth?

One of the most controversial topics of conversation within the sporting world is the use of anabolic steroids. The debates range from the question of fairness within professional sports, to topics such as the short and long term reported health effects.




The Side Effects Of Anabolic Steroids: Truth Or A Myth?

As with many things in life, the utilisation of anabolic steroids does not come without potential adverse effects. For the purpose of this article, we’re now going to leave the debate of whether steroids are right or wrong from a moral viewpoint behind and concentrate purely on the medical issues surrounding steroid use.

Adverse effects can be seen to target numerous regions of the human body. From a cardiovascular perspective, this can include elevated blood pressure and decreased myocardial functioning. It has also been reported to affect the endocrine system, in the form of testicular atrophy and impotence. From a hepatic perspective, they can enhance the risk of liver tumors and damage. Additional side effects include; acne, baldness, increased risk of tendon tears and numerous psychological problems.

It has been suggested that these adverse effects are often focused upon by individuals in the medical and scientific professions, who at the same time also undervalue the potential benefits of anabolic steroids, in order to create fear amongst the athletic population and decrease their use.

Recently, these sentiments have been echoed by Berning et al (2004) who suggested that the adverse effects and potential medical issues associated with anabolic steroids are somewhat overstated and far fetched.

So how much truth is in this debate? It should be noted that some of the adverse effects of anabolic steroids are by no means minor ailments and that their impact on the human body could be life changing – but how likely is this? All medication nowadays comes with a throwaway manual warning you of its potential dangers, but realistically, how often do they actually occur?

One of the major issues when even beginning to contemplate answering these questions is that the majority of research investigations into this topic lack both validity and conclusiveness. To state the results are limited would be a huge understatement, to say the least.

For example, many research investigations don’t mimic real life situations or even apply to the athletic community. Whilst professional athletes are often involved in long term cycling of anabolic steroids, utilising high dosages and often stacking various drug combinations together, this type of drug trialling is not found in conventional research.

The argument supporting the adverse effects of anabolic steroids isn’t made any easier by research concluding that many of the reported side effects are also reversible upon cessation.

Before providing our final summary from information provided within this article, it is important to once again direct your attention to our initial disclaimer at the top of the article.
Final Word

Regardless of whether anabolic steroids are morally right or wrong, they have created a situation within the sporting world where they can massively impact upon sporting performance. However, anabolic steroids come with a huge health warning, irrespective of whether this status has been achieved through scare mongering tactics.

Do anabolic steroids offer an equal balance of positives and negatives? Does one outweigh the other or vice versa? Individuals have suggested that the adverse effects of anabolic steroids are often both overrated and overemphasised. This argument is indirectly supported through research investigations, which are unable to show a link between steroid use and serious adverse effects. Furthermore, reports also suggest that any effects might be reversible on cessation of drug administration.

There is absolutely no doubting the effectiveness of anabolic steroids in the pursuit of excellence, especially in sports requiring strength, speed and power. The same unfortunately cannot be said for the adverse effects, with a huge gap in this research field. The research that is available often lacks control, making any cause and effect relationship between steroids and adverse effects almost impossible to gage.

Until this balance is readdressed, can we really expect individuals and athletes alike to sit up and take notice of these potential dangers? In the competitive sporting world that exists, I think this question answers itself.

So, now we want to hear your views:

    Have you, or would you ever consider taking anabolic steriods?
    If so, did you encounter any side effects?
    How about any positive effects they brought about?
    Which camp are you in – legalise steroids in sport or should hard work and dedication be enough?

Let us know in the comments section below, we are eager to hear what you have to say on the matter.

5 Testosterone Myths

Thanks to stories about doping Olympic athletes, Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens, the words "testosterone" or "steroids" create unsavory associations. However, testosterone is a key hormone that has numerous important and beneficial functions in men. In fact, if it weren't for testosterone, all little boys would be born with a labia instead of a scrotum! In adults, testosterone is important for normal sexual function, sperm production, as well as muscle development and tone. In my work as a urologist at Men's Health Boston, I treat men with infertility (i.e., vasectomy reversal) and sexual problems. Many of these men are diagnosed with low levels of testosterone, or what I call "low T."

Low T can also cause chronic fatigue, depression, and reduced muscular/athletic performance. Treatment with testosterone can improve erections and sex drive, restore muscle and reduce fat, and increase energy and motivation. I have written a book, Testosterone for Life (McGraw-Hill), to help men figure out if they have low T, and if so, how best to obtain treatment. New evidence suggests that normal testosterone levels are important for reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and men with normal levels live longer than men with low T. However, stories about cheating athletes and muscle-crazed bodybuilders have given testosterone a bad name, and have created a number of myths. Here are five of the most common testosterone myths.
1- Testosterone is an illegal drug
Nope; testosterone is a perfectly legal prescription medication. It is also a key hormone present in every man that is responsible for fetal development of the male genitalia, the physical changes that occur during male puberty, and that contributes to a variety of functions in the adult man including sperm production, erections, sex drive, muscle tone, and bone health, among others. Testosterone is only illegal when it's used without a physician’s prescription. However, many sports organizations have strict rules regarding substances such as testosterone that may influence athletic performance. Athletes who violate the rules of their sport are cheating, and lying about it to Congress may lead to prison time.
2- Testosterone is a steroid, and steroids are dangerous
Testosterone is a steroid, but that doesn’t make it dangerous. In fact, we’re all naturally loaded with various kinds of steroids. The word "steroid" simply refers to a molecule with a “backbone” of four rings of carbon —  examples include estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and even cholesterol. Clearly, when an athlete tests positive for “steroids,” no one is concerned that he injected himself with cholesterol. In the sports world, the word “steroid” is shorthand for an “anabolic steroid hormone,” meaning steroids that specifically act to build muscle and bone, like testosterone. Whereas testosterone has been shown to be relatively safe, even at high concentrations, there is almost no information at all about the safety of the newer “designer” steroids produced to escape detection in drug testing.
3- Testosterone causes uncontrollable violent behavior
There is absolutely no reliable evidence that testosterone causes “’roid rage” or any type of violent, aggressive or uncontrollable behavior. No violence, aggression or unpredictable behavior has been seen in studies where men were administered testosterone, even at extremely high doses. In fact, the opposite appears to be true; many men with low T describe being more irritable, or having a short fuse, and this often improves with normalization of testosterone levels. A recent patient treated with testosterone told me that his wife found him “unbearable” to be around before he was diagnosed with low T and subsequently treated; “I’m a nicer guy now,” he said.  
4- Testosterone causes prostate cancer
New evidence conclusively shows that men with higher levels of testosterone are at no greater risk of developing prostate cancer than men with low testosterone. Moreover, treating men with testosterone has not been shown to cause any increased risk of prostate cancer either. The basis for this myth originated from studies in the 1940s in which men with metastatic prostate cancer showed benefits when they were castrated. It appears that the only men at risk for prostate cancer growth with higher testosterone are men who have already been castrated. An exciting, but controversial, development is the use of testosterone to treat symptomatic men with low T who have undergone prior therapy for prostate cancer (I have a special chapter on this in my book, Testosterone For Life).
5- Higher testosterone causes baldness
On average, men with male pattern baldness have the same testosterone levels as men with a full head of hair. Baldness seems to be genetically determined. The confusion arises because medicines like finasteride (Propecia) that block conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can prevent or treat baldness. Since only very small amounts of DHT are needed by the scalp to do what the genes tell them to do (in this case, lose hair), men who are pre-destined to pull a Kojak will do so whether their T concentrations are high or low.