Beware of gym supplements

Excessive use of gym supplements on gym enthusiasts can cause serious damage to the body. One should consult a physician before taking protein supplements to prevent or mitigate any side effects.

- Dr. Sanjay Bhat

Working out in the gym for a well-built posture is a passion for many. Several gym enthusiasts exercise regularly for hours to get their desired body types and in the process resort to various types of diets, supplements and advice pertaining to the same. This aspiration to get ‘overnight results along with peer pressure often sets unrealistic body expectations among them and drives many individuals to try various ‘body-building products.’

While these products may not serve the purpose for which they are taken, they can cause serious damage to the body like suppression of the natural testosterone axis in the body, abnormal breast growth in men called gynaecomastia, high cholesterol levels leading, heart attacks, brain strokes, liver and kidney damage, cardiac issues, abnormal clotting, lowering of cholesterol, short stature among teenagers, infections, increase in blood glucose, acne, greasy skin, low sperm count in men, masculinization of women and issues in sex life.

Many of these gym products are sold online or over the counter by the gym staff that may contain a cocktail of substances including testosterone and other androgens, aromatase inhibitors, HCG, phosphodiesterase inhibitors etc. However, consuming anything in excess always results in negative implications and hence it is advised to consume gym supplements moderately for healthier benefits.

• Why does body require them naturally?

A balanced healthy diet is a good source