HGH Vs. Steroids
HGH is the acronym for human growth hormone, and much like testosterone, HGH is a natural hormone produced in the body. HGH and testosterone encourage growth and development in the body, but in different ways. For example, testosterone will increase bone mass and density, while HGH works to support your bone development from birth to adulthood. Each hormone, HGH and steroids, has benefits and risks.
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Combating Disorders with HGH
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Everyone does not have normal bone development, so a doctor can prescribe a man-made version of HGH to treat a hormone deficiency in children and adults. A synthetic form of HGH can be prescribed to increase muscle mass, bone density and cell regeneration. HGH is administered through injection. According to the Mayo Clinic, HGH can also be used to combat the weight loss of AIDS patients.
Combating Disorders with Steroids
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Steroids are more commonly called "anabolic steroids" or "anabolic androgenic steroids." The man-made version of the growth hormone testosterone can be used to treat a hormone deficiency. One condition that a man-made version of testosterone is prescribed to treat is hypogonadism. Although testosterone is produced by both males and females, hypogonadism affect males. Hypogonadism is a condition that hinders the production of testosterone. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can be born with hypogonadism or it may be the result of an injury.
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Abusing Steroids
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Because steroids can increase muscle mass, some athletes, men and women, will abuse steroids to improve performance and the way they look. However, using steroids this way is illegal and can have adverse affects on the body. For example, men may experience impotence, low sperm count, mood swings and smaller testes. Women may experience facial hair growth, a deeper voice and changes to the menstrual cycle. In addition, both sexes may experience hair loss.
Abusing HGH
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HGH has been thought to combat the effects of aging, so athletes, celebrities and everyday people have been using HGH to find the fountain of youth. However, illegally using HGH can be dangerous. According to Dr. Alan Rogol, a committee representative for The Endocrine Society, abuse of HGH can cause muscles to weaken and heart disease. In addition, Rogol reminds users that HGH can only be administered thorough injection, so if users are given a pill form, it is not HGH.
Warning
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HGH and steroids have numerous benefits. However, even when taken legally, there are certain risks. For example, HGH users may experience high-cholesterol and glucose levels. Also, HGH is heavily monitored by the Food and Drug Administration because it can increase the risk of cancer.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Steven Depolo
