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In the world of bodybuilding, achieving peak physical conditioning involves intense training, strict dietary regimens, and occasionally, the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). While anabolic steroids can amplify muscle growth and performance, they may carry harmful side effects. Two particular common concern and health risks associated with anabolic steroid use are aromatization and liver health. It's crucial for bodybuilders to understand and address these risks to safeguard their health and well-being. This article dives into these two primary concerns regarding long-term health in the sport of bodybuilding: the impact of aromatization and estrogen, and the adverse effects of anabolic steroids on the liver.   Aromatization is the process through which aromatase enzymes convert testosterone into estrogen. While estrogen is crucial for hormonal balance in both men and women, excessive estrogen levels in males are often seen as a result of the aromatization of anabolic steroids especially those that are more androgenic, which can lead to adverse effects. These effects include weight gain, water retention, decreased libido, gynecomastia, and lethargy, all of which are contradict the desired outcomes of bodybuilding.   To help counter the negative effects of aromatization, many bodybuilders integrate aromatase inhibitors into their supplement regimen. Aromatase inhibitors function by stopping the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, thereby maintaining hormonal equilibrium and promoting a lean physique and a more favorable testosterone to estrogen ratio for male performance and reduced side effects. MuscleMeds, renowned for their supplement industry leading Carnivor Beef Protein Isolate, recognized a void in the space for natural aromatization solutions and developed AROMATEST, a maximum strength aromatase inhibitor. AROMATEST is formulated with a proprietary prenylflavonoid extract of Xanthohumol (XN) and 8-prenylnaringenin (8-PN). Research shows these two natural compounds are the most powerful aromatase inhibitors. To further improve the potency and efficacy of these compounds, AROMATEST uses a super-bioavailable lipophilic delivery system making Its effectiveness unparalleled. Research shows its advanced delivery system provides superior bioavailability and efficacy, with 20x greater absorption. The use of AROMATEST can be an effective strategy to combat aromatization and elevated while cycling on anabolic steroids.   When coming off a cycle athletes often crash. This is due to the effects that steroids have on decreasing your natural production of testosterone. So, when an athlete comes off their natural production of testosterone is usually low. Research also shows that aromatase inhibitors may be effective for PCT (post cycle therapy) to help kick start your natural production of testosterone.   In addition to the concerns of aromatization while of steroids and the negative effects they can have on your normal testosterone production, anabolic steroids pose an increased risk on your liver health. Extended or excessive usage of anabolic steroids can have serious adverse effects on liver function. The liver, a crucial organ tasked with metabolizing various substances, including anabolic steroids, can suffer damage with prolonged exposure to these compounds. Studies have shown that the use of anabolic steroids may lead to liver issues such as hepatotoxicity, cholestasis, liver tumors, jaundice, and inflammation. Global health statistics reveal that   "100 million people worldwide suffer from various forms of liver disease, with another alarming 80 million unaware of their condition."   Today's young adults and bodybuilders of all ages need to be aware of the potential dangers associated with anabolic steroids and take proactive steps to protect their health. The key markers of how your liver is functions and the health of your liver can be determined by having blood these done to measure your liver enzymes. Elevated liver enzymes are a key indicator of compromised liver health.  If you are taking steroids it is highly recommended that you get your levier enzymes checked. If you liver enzymes are elevated you may want consider taking MuscleMed’s clinically researched LIVER DETOX & DEFEND, which has been shown to reduce ALT, AST, and ALP liver enzymes levels in just 28 days!   LIVER DETOX & DEFEND stands out as the latest, fast acting clinical dosed liver support formula. It incorporates a groundbreaking herbal complex that has never before been available until now. Featuring KaraLiv, Milk Thistle, and N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), renowned for their ability to safeguard the liver against today's environmental toxins, LIVER DETOX & DEFEND offers a comprehensive solution for liver protection. By integrating efficaciously dosed products like LIVER DETOX & DEFEND into a structured protocol regimen, bodybuilders can equip their bodies with the support necessary for optimal function, while mitigating the risks associated with AAS use. This comprehensive liver support formula not only aids in shielding against anabolic steroid induced hepatotoxicity but also supports overall liver health, ensuring that bodybuilders can continue pushing the envelope in a safer and more effective manner.   The adverse effects of anabolic steroids on liver function, coupled with the impact of aromatization and estrogen, underscore the importance of proactive measures to support liver health. Incorporating supplements like MuscleMeds AROMATEST and LIVER DETOX & DEFEND into a bodybuilding protocol alongside proper training and nutrition; bodybuilders can optimize performance and well-being in their endless pursuit of the perfect physique. 

The effects of dehydration on physical performance have been well established both anecdotally, and within the scientific literature. Athletes commonly experience involuntary dehydration of 1-2% body mass during practices and athletic events, particularly in warm environments (4).  Hydration levels impact athletic performance as much, or more, than any other variable, and consuming fluids in sufficient amounts is essential for normal cellular function.  Additionally, water is the most prevalent component of the human body, representing 45-70% of an individual’s body weight, and 75% of contractile tissue (1). As little as ≥ 2% reduction in body mass has been shown to impair aerobic performance (2), but what about anaerobic performance associated with strength and power training?  Jones et. al. (5) demonstrated reduced muscular power associated with dehydration levels of 3.1%.  Both upper and lower body peak power was decreased by 14.5 and 18.4% respectively, which results in significant performance decrements. Researchers also reported decreased upper body (7.2%) and lower body (19.2%) mean power outputs.  Additional research has shown dehydration levels as little as 1-3% can have negative impact on repeated high-intensity sprint performance (3).  When properly hydrated, subjects reported significantly lower perceived effort during high-intensity exercise in addition to faster sprint times.  Moreover, athletes who focus on pre-exercise fluid consumption, report feeling more adequately recovered and prepared for high-intensity exercise compared to their mildly dehydrated counterparts. It is important for athletes to not only achieve adequate levels of hydration prior to initiating high-intensity power or strength training, but to also maintain adequate fluid levels throughout the training session, and properly replace levels following the completion of exercise.  In addition to fluid levels, for hard-training individuals who aim to improve strength, power, lean muscle mass, and body composition, consuming a blend of electrolytes and amino acids throughout the intra-workout period is imperative.  This is precisely where CARNIVOR PROTEIN HYDRATION shines.  CARNIVOR PROTEN HYDRATION RTD’s provide a superior lactose free alternative to commonly used dairy and whey products and contain more electrolytes than many popular sports drinks.  Providing 30 grams of fat free, gluten free high-quality beef protein isolate to support muscle building and recovery, this product is tailor made for hard training individuals who seek to optimize body composition and perform at high levels in the gym and on the field.  Make every workout count with CARNIVOR PROTEIN HYDRATION! References: Baechle, TR and Earle, R. Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (2nd ed.). Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics. 2000. p. 246. Cheuvront, SN, Montain, SJ, and Sawka, MN. Fluid replacement and performance during the marathon. Sports Med 37: 353–357, 2007. Davis, JK, Laurent, CM, Allen, KE, Green, JM, Stolworthy, NI, Welch, TR, and Nevett, ME. Influence of dehydration on intermittent sprint performance. JSCR 29: 2586-2593, 2015.   Garth, AK and Burke, LM. What do athletes drink during competitive sporting activities?. Sports Med 43: 539–564, 2013.   Jones, LC, Cleary, MA, Lopez, RM, Zuri, RE, and Lopez, R. Active dehydration impairs upper and lower body anaerobic muscular power. JSCR 22: 455-463, 2008.

In pursuit of the ideal physique, an alarming number of individuals, including non-competitive bodybuilders, resort to the use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS). Recent surveys have shed light on the widespread use of AAS among non-competitive bodybuilders worldwide, indicating a concerning trend that extends beyond the realm of professional sports and bodybuilding. According to a survey referenced in the Journal Of The Royal Society Of Medicine, a significant percentage of non-competitive bodybuilders utilize AAS to enhance the aesthetics of their physique, raising pertinent concerns regarding the associated health risks and adverse effects on liver health. This phenomenon warrants closer examination, particularly considering the lack of professional oversight and education among this demographic. Unlike professional bodybuilders who often undergo rigorous monitoring and possess some level of education on minimizing health risks associated with AAS usage, non-competitive individuals may lack access to such resources. Surveys have revealed alarming patterns of AAS usage, with dosages exceeding medical recommendations by substantial margins.   "Of the 500 AAS users who participated in the survey, 78.4% (392/500) were noncompetitive bodybuilders and nonathletes; 59.6% (298/500) of the respondents reported using at least 1,000 mg of testosterone or its equivalent per week."  These types of numbers far surpass any medically advised limits and predisposing users to a mirage of health concerns and complications. One of the most significant concerns regarding AAS usage is its detrimental impact on liver health and function. High doses of anabolic steroids can lead to elevated liver enzymes and various liver complications, including hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatic adenoma, and vascular changes such as peliosis hepatis. The elevation of liver enzymes, including ALT, AST, and ALP, serves as a warning sign of potential liver damage and underscores the importance of addressing this issue. Recognizing the critical role of liver health in overall well-being, it becomes imperative to explore strategies for mitigating the adverse effects of AAS on the liver. While the risks associated with AAS usage cannot be eliminated, certain measures can help minimize harm.  MuscleMeds, a renowned name in the realm of sports nutrition, has taken proactive steps to address this issue with their latest development, Liver Detox & Defend a fast acting, clinically dosed liver support formula. This comprehensive all-in-one solution helps combat the adverse effects of AAS, alcohol, and certain medications on liver function and health with efficacious backed dosages of KaraLiv™️ Milk Thistle, and NAC. KaraLiv, the latest clinical backed research ingredient for supporting healthy liver function, has been shown to support healthier liver function & supports ALT, AST, and ALP liver enzyme levels in just 28 days! By harnessing the power of the latest natural ingredients and cutting-edge research, MuscleMeds aims to provide individuals with a potent tool to safeguard their liver health amidst the challenges posed by the rise of AAS usage. The widespread use of AAS among non-competitive bodybuilders underscores the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to mitigate the associated health risks. Understanding the negative impact of AAS on liver health and adopting new innovative solutions like Liver Detox & Defend can help individuals protect their overall health markers across the board as they strive towards their health and fitness goals.