Testosterone is primarily a male sex hormone that occurs naturally in the human body. A class of drugs called anabolic steroids are the synthetic derivates of testosterone hormone. Anabolic steroids are artificially synthesized in labs and they mimic the testosterone hormone.
The term “Anabolic” stands for build-up or promote growth. That being so, the use of an anabolic steroid such as synthetic testosterone aids in the development of muscle mass as well as facial and body hair in males.
A crucial hormone like testosterone is responsible for regulating a wide range of processes in the body. It does share some similarities with synthetic anabolic steroids. Such artificially synthesized hormones are administered for various reasons.
Usually, anabolic steroids are employed for managing medical health conditions, however, some individuals use them for recreational purposes. Utilizing them illicitly, aiming for performance-enhancing, potentiates the individual’s risk of dangerous health effects.
About Testosterone
The key sex hormone Testosterone is primarily produced in the testes in males and smaller amounts in the ovaries in females. This hormone belongs to a category of hormones known as androgens, which are responsible for the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues.
It gives secondary sexual characteristics to males, which include vocal changes, voice deepening, male hair patterns, and, growth of testes. In females, the hormones support the growth, maintenance, and repair of reproductive tissues and bone mass.
Understanding anabolic steroids
Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone hormones or other androgens. Athletes and bodybuilders often use these steroids illicitly to boost their performance and enhance strength and muscle growth. They use them without a doctor’s prescription, which increases their exposure to serious health risks.
These are legally used for medical purposes. The healthcare providers prescribe the use of anabolic steroids for managing some health conditions such as muscle weakness or loss, hormonal deficiencies, and so on. These are typically taken under strict medical supervision.
Testosterone Vs synthetic steroids
Testosterone belongs to a class of hormones called androgens, which are natural substances. Testosterone and synthetic anabolic steroids share some similarities in their effects on the body, but they do differ in their chemical makeup and physiological roles.
Since both testosterone and anabolic steroids have identical effects on the body, however, they do differ in their medical uses, legal status, and potential side effects. Testosterone is a naturally occurring hormone that is produced in the body, while anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that are created in the labs.
Testosterone levels tend to decline naturally with age in both men and women. However, low testosterone levels can also be attributed to various medical conditions such as obesity, hypogonadism, diabetes, and side effects of certain medications.
In such cases, the healthcare provider will suggest the use of anabolic steroids to replace testosterone. Those who abuse anabolic steroids are likely to experience harmful effects of it. This is why, it is necessary to use these synthetic substances responsibly and under the guidance of healthcare professionals only.
Testosterone replace therapy
Healthcare professionals may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy to treat conditions associated with low testosterone levels, such as hypogonadism or certain types of infertility.
However, it is necessary to use testosterone therapy under medical supervision, since excessive levels of this hormone can have adverse effects on health.
Are testosterone and steroids the same thing?
So, if you are wondering, “Is testosterone a steroid?”, then the answer is no. Testosterone and steroids are two different things. While testosterone is naturally produced in the body, anabolic steroids are synthetically created to replace testosterone.
Anabolic steroids imitate the function of testosterone, which is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics. Anabolic steroids are artificially produced and they can promote muscle growth, hair growth, and boost performance.
Synthetic steroids are mostly used by gym freaks, athletes, and bodybuilders to speed up their muscle growth and enhance performance.
Ways to increase testosterone levels naturally
As men get older, the levels of testosterone begin to gradually drop in the body. This increases their chances of developing issues related to low testosterone. However, several ways can naturally help to maintain healthy testosterone levels.
This can be achieved by making necessary changes to the lifestyle. These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a well-balanced diet, staying physically active, eliminating stress, limiting alcohol, and getting a sufficient amount of sleep.
If you are experiencing some symptoms of low testosterone, such as reduction in muscle mass, weight gain, low sex drive, hair loss, etc. then it is important to consult a medical professional to know more.
