New research published in The Journal of Physiology has found that using anabolic steroids may raise the risk of developing a serious heart condition called atrial fibrillation.
This discovery is especially important for young men who use steroids to build muscle, often influenced by trends on social media platforms like TikTok.
Anabolic steroids are synthetic drugs designed to act like testosterone, the male sex hormone. They are often used by bodybuilders to gain muscle mass quickly.
However, this new study, led by Dr. Laura Sommerfeld from UKE Hamburg in collaboration with the University of Birmingham, shows that these substances can pose serious risks to heart health.
The researchers focused on a condition called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). ARVC is a disease that affects the heart’s muscle structure and how its cells are connected.
This condition is more common and more dangerous in men. The study found that anabolic steroids can make ARVC worse, increasing the chances of atrial fibrillation, a condition where the heart beats irregularly and often too fast.
In the study, the scientists found that just six weeks of anabolic steroid use could harm the way heart cells connect with each other. It also lowered the function of sodium channels in the heart—these channels are crucial for sending electrical signals that control the heartbeat.
When these signals are slowed down, the heart’s rhythm can become unsteady, especially in the upper chambers of the heart (the atria). This raises the risk of atrial fibrillation, particularly in young men who may already have a genetic risk for heart problems.
Professor Larissa Fabritz, one of the senior researchers, warned that high testosterone levels from steroid use can make certain heart conditions like ARVC even more dangerous. This can lead to severe heart rhythm problems that could be life-threatening.
This research is a clear warning about the hidden dangers of anabolic steroid misuse. Many young people may be unaware of the risks, especially when they see these drugs promoted online for fitness and appearance purposes.
The study urges people to take heart health seriously, especially those who use or are considering using performance-enhancing drugs. The effects on the heart go beyond short-term muscle gains—they can lead to long-term and even deadly health problems.
Other studies have shown that lifestyle choices can also affect heart health. For example, some herbal supplements may disrupt heart rhythm, while eating eggs or yogurt could reduce the risk of heart disease. Drinking apple juice may also help support heart health.
In conclusion, this new research highlights the need for greater awareness about the heart risks of anabolic steroid use, especially among young men. Being informed and making safer choices can protect your heart and your future.
If you care about muscle health, please read studies about Muscle supplement could help battle Alzheimer’s and findings of All resistance training build strength and muscle.
For more information about muscle health, please read studies about Poor muscle health in people with obesity could increase early death risk and findings of This diabetes drug can boost muscle health.
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