Many people make the mistake of thinking that steroids and Human Growth Hormone
(HGH) are a lot alike. In actuality, there are only two main similarities
between the two: they both are found in the human body and they are both
hormones needed for growth and development. On the contrary, the number of
differences between steroids and HGH are many and are worth noting.
First, it's important to note that anabolic steroids are not the same as
corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are chemical substances commonly used in
medicine to treat inflammation and arthritis. Anabolic steroids are synthetic
substances related to the male sex hormones. Anabolic steroids are taken, often
by athletes and often illegally, to build muscle, enhance performance and
improve appearance. The effects of the steroid help the body's retention of
protein, which is necessary for the growth of muscles, skin and bones. While the
benefits of anabolic steroids are tempting, they are often abused by
professional athletes and the side effects can be quite harmful.
With the
use of anabolic steroids, especially in excess, the following side effects occur
in men: reduced sperm count up to 90% (sometimes this decline is permanent),
impotence, development of breasts, shrinking of the testicles, swelling of the
testicles (which can lead to a serious infection), and pain or difficulty while
urinating. In women, the side effects include: deepened voice, growth of facial
hair, breast reduction, and menstrual cycle changes.
Common side effects for
both sexes include acne, bloating, rapid weight gain, clotting disorders, liver
damage, premature strokes and heart attacks, elevated cholesterol levels,
premature balding or hair loss, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, sleep problems,
and weakened tendons. Among adolescents, anabolic steroids can stop growth
prematurely, cause drastic mood swings and lead to various psychological
disorders from extreme irritability to suicidal depression. Not to mention that
many abusers of steroids become addicted and suffer withdrawal symptoms when
they stop taking them.
HGH, on the other hand, is very different from
steroids in many positive ways. First, HGH has only minor side effects, if any
at all - nothing like the rather harsh side effects of steroids. Second, HGH as
a supplement is much easier to absorb and is not necessary to inject as is
steroids. This makes HGH much more appealing to most, not only for convenience,
but for the decreased risk in HIV infection via shared needles. Third, while
steroid injections are expensive, HGH supplements are more affordable.
HGH is
also not addictive like steroids; it doesn't cause withdrawal symptoms and
cravings. And finally, HGH offers many more benefits besides building muscle
mass. HGH is said to slow the aging process thereby reducing fat, increasing
stamina and strength, decreasing wrinkles and improving overall
health.
Because of the significant differences and obvious benefits of
HGH, many authorities believe that HGH supplements are a much better alternative
than steroids. Steroid use can do more harm than good and the side effects can
be irreversible. Conversely, many HGH supplements on the market are known to be
safe and claim to be free of any side effects.
Whether using HGH in spray,
powder, or pill form, it's worth checking out online product reviews before
making your final purchase decision. Read the facts about HGH and make your best
informed decision based on what's right for you.