#5 - From Athletes to Patients: The Steroid Dilemma

In this episode of The Balanced Bodies Blueprint, we delve into a topic that's often shrouded in secrecy and stigmatized: Anabolic Steroid Use. Join us as we explore the world of performance-enhancing drugs, the reasons people turn to them, and the implications for health and fitness. Whether you're a bodybuilder, an athlete, or just someone curious about the topic, this discussion will shed light on the steroid dilemma. Coach Vinny and Dr. Eryn discuss various key points and insights: - Epidemiology: Anabolic steroid use isn't limited to athletes; studies reveal prevalence rates ranging from 1-15% in the general population and a global estimate of 1-5%. - Clinicians and Trust: Patients often hesitate to discuss steroid use with healthcare providers due to trust issues. Bridging this gap can lead to better-informed decisions. - Brain and Steroids: The less-discussed topic of how steroids may affect the brain is explored. Questions arise regarding long-term cognitive function and potential associations with neurocognitive disorders. - Risks and Consequences: Short-term and long-term risks include, but are not limited to, cardiovascular issues, liver and kidney health, and impacts on the reproductive system. - Nutrition and Training: How “gear” use will affect diet protocols. This episode is sure to spark thought-provoking conversations and provide valuable insights for both those in the fitness and wellness industry and individuals seeking a deeper understanding of anabolic steroid use and its implications. Don't miss this engaging and informative discussion on The Balanced Bodies Blueprint. Explore our website ( www.balancedbodies.io ) to learn more about effective coaching and support tailored to your needs. We're here to guide you towards a healthier, happier you. We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions regarding emotional eating by leaving a comment and rating. Also feel free to reach out to us on our social media channels (see below). Coach VinnyEmail: [email protected]: vinnyrusso_balancedbodiesFacebook: Vinny Russo Dr. ErynEmail: [email protected]: dr.eryn_balancedbodiesFacebook: Eryn Stansfield LEGION 20% OFF CODEGo to https://legionathletics.com/ and use the code RUSSO for 20% off your order! Sources mentioned in this Podcast: Anawalt BD. Diagnosis and Management of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Use. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2019 Jul 1;104(7):2490-2500. doi: 10.1210/jc.2018-01882. PMID: 30753550; PMCID: PMC6517163. Bjørnebekk A, Kaufmann T, Hauger LE, Klonteig S, Hullstein IR, Westlye LT. Long-term Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use Is Associated With Deviant Brain Aging. Biol Psychiatry Cogn Neurosci Neuroimaging. 2021 May;6(5):579-589. doi: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2021.01.001. Epub 2021 Jan 13. PMID: 33811018. Escalante G, Darrow D, Ambati VNP, Gwartney DL, Collins R. Dead Bodybuilders Speaking from the Heart: An Analysis of Autopsy Reports of Bodybuilders That Died Prematurely. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2022 Nov 24;7(4):105. doi: 10.3390/jfmk7040105. PMID: 36547651; PMCID: PMC9781327. Hauger LE, Westlye LT, Fjell AM, Walhovd KB, Bjørnebekk A. Structural brain characteristics of anabolic-androgenic steroid dependence in men. Addiction. 2019 Aug;114(8):1405-1415. doi: 10.1111/add.14629. Epub 2019 May 15. PMID: 30955206; PMCID: PMC6767448.