Updated on April 4, 2022.
If you’re hitting the gym to get in shape, taking a bodybuilding supplement might seem like a simple way to gain muscle faster. But it pays to be wary of these products. Some of them may pose a risk to your health.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regularly issues warnings about tainted muscle-building products. In fact, the agency says people should generally avoid any bodybuilding supplements that claim to contain steroids or steroid-like substances. The FDA says the products shouldn’t be considered supplements at all, but instead are unapproved and misbranded drugs.
Know the risks
The side effects of taking anabolic steroids for a supposed fitness benefit include some serious health risks, such as liver failure, dangerous changes to blood cholesterol levels, and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Men can experience breast enlargement, testicle shrinkage, and hair loss. Women can experience increased body hair, disrupted menstrual cycles, and a permanently deeper voice. Children who take them risk stunted growth.
In addition to the physical health risks, taking performance-enhancing drugs can also seriously impact mental health. People who use steroids regularly can display extreme irritability, delusions, paranoia, and jealousy. Taking excess testosterone can make people feel invincible, leading to seriously impaired judgment and risky behavior.
How can you know if a supplement you want to take is safe? Even the FDA says it can be hard to tell. You can check the current list of tainted supplements at fda.gov, but even it includes a disclaimer that these are just a fraction of the potentially hazardous products with hidden ingredients marketed to consumers.
Health experts say it’s a good idea to be wary of any supplements claiming success for weight loss, body and muscle building, or sexual enhancement. Ask yourself if the claims seem too good to be true, and be skeptical about any personal testimonials in the product’s marketing. And if you have doubts or aren’t sure if a product is safe and reliable, get a healthcare provider's or dietitian’s opinion.
Alternatives for building bulk
So what can you do to safely build muscle and make the most of your workouts? Fitness trainer Brian Guidry says there are three essential components to building muscle:
- Do resistance training consistently
- Eat the right foods at the right times throughout the day
- Get enough rest to allow your body to repair itself and grow
Guidry recommends finding a personal trainer to help you establish the exercise routine that fits you best. Consult with a trainer or nutrionist on the best foods to fuel your workouts and your muscles. Milk, an affordable and healthy muscle-boosting protein, may be in your fridge already.
