In recent years, the use of anabolic steroids has become increasingly popular among both regular gym goers and professional athletes. It helps users push past natural limits and achieve a more muscular, defined physique in a shorter amount of time. They mainly work by increasing protein synthesis, allowing muscles to repair and grow faster after intense workouts.
Along with potential benefits, the use of steroids also comes with some side effects, like health issues, especially when used irregularly or without professional assistance. Overlooking this aspect can result in wasting your time and money and damaging both your physical and mental health. Therefore, learning about possible risks and taking preventive measures is crucial to ensure a safe cycle.
Here are some practical ways that can help you avoid side effects when on steroids.
Use the Right Aromatase Inhibitor
One of the best ways to reduce estrogen-related side effects is by using an aromatase inhibitor like Arimidex or Aromasin. Both help control estrogen levels during a steroid cycle, which can lower the chances of water retention, gynecomastia, and mood swings. You can compare Aromasin vs Arimidex in bodybuilding to know which one is more effective, and also make sure to use the correct dose as advised by a professional to avoid crashing your estrogen too low.
Start with a Low Dose
Many side effects happen because of high doses or stacking too many steroids too soon. So, those who are new to steroids or trying a new compound are advised to always begin with a low dose. It helps your body adjust slowly and allows you to monitor how you respond to the substance. If you don’t notice any serious side effects, you can gradually increase the dose.
Follow a Balanced Diet
Eating a clean and balanced diet is an essential part of a bodybuilding journey, especially when you’re on a steroid cycle. Junk food and processed meals put extra stress on your liver, kidneys, and heart, which are already under pressure due to steroids. So, always focus on lean proteins, complex carbs, fruits, and vegetables. It will support your liver and help keep blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is a simple but powerful way to stay healthy throughout your bodybuilding journey. The reason is that steroids can cause water retention and put stress on your kidneys, but staying well-hydrated helps flush out toxins, supports your liver and kidneys, and keeps your body functioning properly. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day, or more if you’re sweating a lot during training. Additionally, avoid too much caffeine or sugary drinks that can dehydrate you.
Take Liver Support Supplements
Steroids, especially oral ones, can be hard on your liver. You can consider using liver support supplements like milk thistle, NAC, or TUDCA to cleanse and support liver health during the cycle. Take them daily, as recommended, starting from the first day of your steroid cycle. It’s especially important if you’re using potent compounds like Dianabol, Winstrol, or Anadrol, as they carry a higher risk of liver toxicity.
Get Regular Blood Work
Getting blood tests done before, during, and after your cycle is one of the smartest ways to stay safe. It helps you see if your liver, kidneys, cholesterol, red blood cells, and hormone levels are within healthy ranges and take immediate measures in case of notice something unusual. You can talk to a doctor or a private lab to get the tests you need and keep your cycle on track and your health in check.
Don’t Skip Post Cycle Therapy
After a steroid cycle, your natural testosterone levels are usually very low. Skipping PCT can make the situation worse and lead to mood swings, low energy, muscle loss, and even depression. Therefore, planning a proper PCT using medications like Clomid or Nolvadex is essential to avoid hormonal imbalance. It helps your body restart its natural hormone production and balances your estrogen levels. Start PCT about two weeks after your last injection or as directed, depending on the steroid used.
Avoid Long Cycles
Running a steroid cycle for too long can increase the chances of serious side effects. It puts more strain on your liver, heart, and hormone levels, making it harder for your body to recover afterwards. Always plan your cycle duration ahead and give yourself enough time off between cycles. It helps your body heal and lowers long-term health risks.
Monitor Blood Pressure
Keeping blood pressure under control is one of the best ways to protect your heart and stay healthy while using performance enhancers. Steroids can raise your blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart problems. Therefore, it’s important to check your blood pressure regularly during your cycle. You can use a home monitor or visit a clinic. If your readings are high, adjust your diet, reduce sodium, and consider light cardio to help.
Include Cardio in Your Routine
Adding regular cardio to your training helps improve heart health and manage cholesterol levels, which can be affected by steroids. Even 20-30 minutes of light cardio a few times a week can keep your heart strong, which helps reduce the risks, especially when using strong compounds or stacking multiple steroids.
Avoid Mixing Too Many Compounds
Stacking multiple steroids at once is a common practice among bodybuilders to boost results, but it also increases side effects. Each compound affects your body differently, and combining them can lead to multiple troubles, like liver damage, blood pressure issues, or hormonal imbalances. So, always stick to simple cycles, especially if you’re not experienced.
Buy from Trusted Sources Only
Getting steroids from a bad source can expose you to fake or contaminated products, which may cause unexpected side effects or health problems. Therefore, always purchase from trusted and verified suppliers. For example, to purchase Winstrol online, you can choose SteroidsFax, a leading online steroid store. They are linked with trusted pharmaceutical companies and provide legit products at competitive rates.
By following these simple, practical tips, you can ensure a safe steroid cycle and achieve your bodybuilding goals without compromising your health.
