Muscle-building Supplements and Diabetes

In the world of sports, everybody wants to get bigger, stronger and faster. Weight lifting and muscle building are the prime ways to increase strength and improve on the athletic field. Unfortunately, too many athletes abuse steroids and other supplements that may have a direct link to diabetes.

Statistics

According to a study by "Pediatrics" (2005), 12 percent of boys and 8 percent of girls use some form of muscle supplement in an effort to build muscle mass. The study polled more than 10,000 young adults.

FDA's Role

The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate many of the supplements on the market. The manufacturing and distribution of dietary supplements is different than food and drug regulation, with the FDA only taking action if problems arise after a supplement has hit the market. Suppliers and manufacturers are responsible for a supplement's safety up to that point.

Anabolic Steroids

Anabolic steroids help athletes regain stamina and energy more quickly, allowing the athlete to work out with weights more often. The increase is noticeable, because the athlete can work out more often and for longer periods of time.

Side Effects

Anabolic steroids can cause added risk of heart disease, liver problems, acne and rage. Steroids are illegal in such sports as baseball and football.

Correlation to Diabetes

Anabolic steroids and other muscle supplements can increase the chance of heart disease, which directly relates to diabetes. The American Diabetes Association estimates that two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke, making muscle supplements a risky toy to play with.