Tag: Dr. Testosterone
Dr. Testosterone Answers: Do Bigger Physiques Always Mean More PED Use?
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone discusses the amount of PEDs used in bodybuilding today – and if bigger size always means more drugs.
While it’s not openly discussed by untested leagues or active pro athletes, it’s a common understanding that PED use is common in the sport. The concept of mass monsters, to many, seem only possible by taking PEDs such as steroids. But with many different divisions and physique sizes across the sport – do bigger physiques always mean more PED use? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone explains why the biggest Men’s Open bodybuilder might not always be use the most PEDs.
The common argument that PED use is common in untested bodybuilding leagues comes down to a simple comparison. If you look at a natural bodybuilding league’s best athletes vs an untested league’s best athletes – the size difference is astronomical. Of course, this also has created a common perception about PED use in bodybuilding. The bigger the mass monster, the more PEDs used. But is that always true?
Dr. Testosterone answers this very question during our video conversation. He admits that in general, this is true. A Men’s Physique bodybuilder would need less drugs to obtain the comparatively smaller size of their division. It would essentially be a waste for a Men’s Physique athlete to take as many steroids as a Men’s Open competitor. That being said, this is just a broad stroke statement. Exceptions always exist.
For example, genetics play a huge role in the capability of a bodybuilder. Regardless of drug use, some individuals need to work harder than others to build up muscle size. Dr. Testosterone uses Lee Haney and Rich Gaspari as an example. Lee Haney can grow to an impressive size very quickly with less effort than a bodybuilder like Rich Gapsari. That’s not to say that Haney put in no effort. It just means that his extremely hard effort goes a longer way.
So if you add PEDs into the mix – the same rules apply. It’s possible for the biggest mass monster on stage to be using less drugs than a smaller bodybuilder standing next to him. This is largely due to genetics and what each individual needs to reach their goals. How much work is put into training also affects this as well. While most elite pro bodybuilders certainly train their asses off – there is still variety in work ethic. It’s unavoidable.
So what’s the bottom line? Perhaps it’s less helpful to comment on drug use based on someone’s size. Just because a bodybuilder is the biggest mass monster on the planet doesn’t meant they are a steroid junkie. The fact of the matter is – as audience members watching, we have no clue what the truth is behind the physique. It’s all speculation.
You can watch Dr. Testosterone go into more detail about the amount of PEDs used in modern bodybuilding right here. Make sure to check out our latest GI Exclusive interview above!
The Most Dangerous Substances In Bodybuilding Today According To Dr. Testosterone
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone breaks down the absolute most dangerous substances used in bodybuilding today.
For almost as long as modern bodybuilding has existed, there has been an ongoing conversation about substance use in the sport. It’s widely known that many competitors use steroids and other PEDs to enhance performance. What seems to be further up for debate is just how dangerous these substances really are. But beyond the standard set of steroids, bodybuilding as a whole has engaged with other substances such as insulin, diuretics, and stimulants. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone details the truly most dangerous substances used in bodybuilding today.
There is no doubt that steroids and similar PEDs can lead to health issues in the long term. It’s the kind of risk that many competitive bodybuilders are willing to take to achieve a new level of greatness. While we don’t want to diminish the possible ramifications of steroids, there are far more dangerous drugs used in the sport as well. That’s why we turned to Dr. Testosterone to find out more clearly which substances are the most dangerous and what kind of effects they can have on athletes.
When asked the question, Dr. Testosterone doesn’t even pause to think. Diuretics, stimulants, and insulin are far and above the most dangerous substances used in bodybuilding today. The doctor has spoken previously with us about the ramifications of diuretics in a previous segment. He’s also gone into detail about the dangers of insulin. So in this segment Dr. Testosterone dives headfirst into stimulants, how they are used in bodybuilding, and why they are so dangerous.
While not as common as other substances, bodybuilders use stimulants to help burn fat. But the problem with stimulants is that they are essentially a direct poison to the body. Looking past the detailed medical and scientific explanations of what happens to the body – the short answer is that stimulant abuse can lead to a stroke. While not always fatal, strokes can lead to very serious life altering outcomes. It can also lead to death in some cases.
Strokes can be caused by the stimulants raising your blood pressure in the brain. But that’s not the only possible negative effect. Stimulants elevate your heart rate and in some cases can cause arrhythmia. It can also constrict blood vessels eventually leading to a heart attack.
There are also other dangers of substances in bodybuilding beyond life or death situations. Sex drive is often associated with drugs like steroids. This is because of the increased testosterone that can, initially, increase sex drive. But as we had previously discussed with The Anabolic Doc, that increased sex drive eventually gives way to a complete depletion of it. Dr. Testosterone corroborates that notion – and goes into more detail as to why it happens and the many forms it can take.
This does not only take the shape of decreased desire for sex. It can also lead to making it hard or impossible for men to achieve erections. And in some extreme cases can lead to a man not being able to ejaculate at all. While not as dire as a life or death health scenario – these kinds of sex issues can cause great psychological trauma to individuals and couples in a relationship.
In addition to this, Dr. Testosterone also speaks about the possible dangers of substances when it comes to increasing aggression, agitation, and anger. While “roid rage” is vastly over-exaggerated in pop culture media, the doctor does admit that certain substances can lead to increased aggression. His recommendation? Smoke a joint to help level out your mood.
You can watch all of Dr. Testosterone’s comments on the most dangerous drugs currently in bodybuilding by watching our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Dr. Testosterone: Young Steroid Users Will Have Low Natural Testosterone By Mid 30s
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone answers how long it takes for steroid use to deplete your natural ability to produce testosterone.
For those who have been following closely, it’s quite clear that continued steroid use leads to low natural testosterone levels. This long term use can have a very long term effect on testosterone after coming off PEDs for good. Usually, individuals will go into testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for the remainder of their lives. This might beg the question – how long can someone use steroids without requiring TRT afterwards? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone explains the factors that can affect how and when bodybuilders will require testosterone replacement therapy.
The topic of steroids in sports, including bodybuilding, is a hotly debated issue and has been for many decades. There’s no denying that long term steroid use can lead to serious health problems. But there are those who are skeptical of just how dire those health problems can become. One thing that is undeniable is its effect on natural testosterone production in the body.
During our conversation with Dr. George Touliatos, aka Dr. Testosterone, we asked him to go into detail about steroid use and testosterone replacement therapy. For how long can a bodybuilder use steroids before their body is unable to produce testosterone naturally? Is there a hard out moment that they can stop to prevent long term damage? Or will even the most casual of steroid users require TRT in their future?
Much like nearly all drugs, Dr. Testosterone explains it depends on a variety of factors. What kind of steroid the person is taking, what size of the dose, and how long of a break between cycles. Then add on top of it that each individual has their own genetic predisposition regarding testosterone production in the body. Some individuals who never use steroids still find themselves with low testosterone at a young age. It’s rare but it can happen.
So these varying factors make it hard to pinpoint an exact timeline for when a bodybuilder, or any steroid user, would face a permanent future on TRT. On average though, Dr. Testosterone seems to place the time limit at about 10 years.
“I guess it depends how early you start it. So if you start in your 30s, I think by your 30s you’ll be toast. And TRT is going to be inevitable,” Dr. Testosterone states in our interview.
He goes on to make clear that anything is possible on an individual level – and nothing is guaranteed. He’s known 30 year olds who have low testosterone and have never taken steroids in their lives. He’s also known 50 year olds with good natural testosterone despite typical aging factors.
Dr. Testosterone also goes into more detail about how testosterone works in the body as a whole. And how trying to artificially boost testosterone will always lead to eventual future issues. Even “kick starting” your testosterone via a booster shot will eventually lead to your body not only reverting back to normal levels – but perhaps falling even lower. It’s like a pendulum that gets more dangerous the more doses you take.
So how does one with naturally low testosterone boost it in a healthy manner? Unfortunately there is no easy trick. Dr. Testosterone explains that it takes time and a dietary habit changes.
You can watch Dr. Testosterone go into full detail about testosterone, TRT, and more in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Dr. Testosterone Warns: You Must Not Smoke Or Drink While On A Steroid Cycle
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone discusses the strict realities of combining steroids with other recreational drugs such as cigarettes, alcohol, cocaine, and more.
There’s no question that steroids are a major health risk when used recreationally for athletic enhancement. Whether an athlete wants to take that risk is up to the individual. But having as much information and education before making that decision is crucial for the athlete to make the right choice. That’s why Dr. Testosterone is crystal clear in his messaging regarding steroids and bodybuilding. He’s not against using the drug – but he’s not ignorant to the real and dangerous risks involved. This is especially true when considering the rest of your habits in relation to steroid use. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone explains why athletes must not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or use party drugs while on a steroid cycle.
When discussing any sort of drug use, the most challenging aspect for doctors and scientists is that these things do not happen in a vacuum. Asking if steroids are safe, for example, is more complicated than it seems. There are the inherent dangers of using such a powerful drug. But there are also dangers when considering other human habits that can go along with it. A doctor cannot control what we do outside of their office – they can only warn and suggest the right strategies for a healthy life.
Most bodybuilders understand the pros and cons of using steroids for athletic enhancement. What might be less known are the bad habits that can actually increase risk alongside the drug. Other things that we put in our body including the type of food we eat, other drugs we take, and also social drugs such as alcohol or cigarettes can all have a huge impact on the effect steroids put on our bodies.
During our conversation with Dr. Testosterone, we asked him how serious it is for a bodybuilder to continue other vices such as drinking or smoking while on steroids. Dr. T makes it very clear. He tells all of his patients that they much choose between steroids and. other drugs. He warns that a bodybuilder or athlete must not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or use other drugs such as cocaine while on a cycle.
Dr. Testosterone warns that continuing to use these drugs alongside steroids, at best, will lead to worse results. At worst, it can amplify health dangers caused by both the other drugs and also the steroids. It’s the kind of cocktail that is not worth it. It’s these kinds of habits that can lead to bodybuilders becoming frustrated with results of steroids, for example, and then start taking higher doses in hopes of seeing results. This can be a slippery slope towards serious health issues.
Additionally, alcohol and cigarettes are already bad vices to have as an athlete. They make fitness simply harder, and can lead to degradation of your body that pulls away from your athletic ability. Add steroids into the mix and you are simply getting more negative effects than positive. No serious athlete should ever consider these things in combination.
You can watch Dr. Testosterone go into full medical detail by watching our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
*DISCLAIMER: Generation Iron does not recommend or condone the use of steroids or other PEDs. The views and opinions expressed in this video are not that of Generation Iron.
Dr. Testosterone Answers: Is It Possible To Undo Damage Caused By Steroid Use?
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone breaks down the reality of prolonged steroid use and whether or not the damage can be reversed.
While there are some who believe steroids to be completely healthy, most athletes understand that athletic use of PEDs can come at a health cost. Ultimately, these athletes decide that it’s worth the risk. But what about down the road after retirement? Does the long term damage truly create regrets in former bodybuilders? Or can the damage be reversed with medical intervention? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone explains whether or not damage caused by long term steroid use can be reversed.
Dr. Testosterone had previously stated in one of our interview segments that bodybuilders must abuse steroids to succeed. Based on that statement, it seems that, in his opinion, bodybuilders must decide if they want to take the risk of long term damage to become a potential champion. It’s been well documented that former athletes and bodybuilders often have to go on TRT (Testosterone Replacement Treatment) upon coming off steroids. But just how much healing can be done medically after a career of steroid abuse?
We asked that question to Dr. Testosterone in our latest interview segment. Dr. T is often pro steroids – but honest about the medical realities of long term steroid use. He has the education and background to break down in detail exactly how much of the damage can be undone. Like many things, it’s not a simple yes or no question.
There are various organs that can become damaged from long term steroid use. The key main organs most affected are the kidneys, liver, and heart. Of course, each body is different in how much abuse it can take. Dr. Testosterone admits that if steroid use damages is done to the kidneys, for example, this can be irreversible.
On the other hand, Dr. T claims that the liver has great regenerative properties. There is some permanent damage that can be done in the extremely long term. But if a bodybuilder gets out at the right time – it’s possible to avoid it and to reverse the smaller damage done.
The biggest threat, Dr. Testosterone states, is damage done to the heart. If the heard grows thicker and the arteries grow thicker – this will cause less blood to pump into and out of the heart. As we age, this kind of damage can cause cardiovascular disease. It’s often near impossible to reverse this kind of damage. Beyond steroids, heart attacks are one of the highest risk health treats in the United States. That gives some perspective on how serious this kind of damage can be.
So how long can a person go before irreversible damage is done? Unfortunately, that’s not an easy answer either. Each person’s genetics are different. Also their lifestyles can be completely different in addition to steroid use. It’s nearly impossible to prescribe a “safe exit point” for bodybuilding. That’s a huge part of the danger and a big reason why it’s not legal for recreational use in the US.
You can watch Dr. Testosterone go into far greater medical detail in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
*DISCLAIMER: Generation Iron does not recommend or condone the use of steroids or other PEDs. The views and opinions expressed in this video are not that of Generation Iron.
Dr. Testosterone: “Diuretics Are An Instant Danger And Can Kill You Right Away”
[embedded content]
Dr. Testosterone details why diuretics and insulin are the two most dangerous drugs used in bodybuilding.
Dr. George Touliatos, aka Dr. Testosterone, has often been outspoken about his support for steroid use in the sport of bodybuilding. In fact, he believes that steroids, while causing long term health issues, are no where near the biggest threat to a bodybuilder’s health. According to Dr. T, diuretics and insulin are the two riskiest drugs commonly taken by competitive bodybuilders. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone focuses on diuretics and how quickly that can turn dangerous.
Over this past summer, there was a sudden series of bodybuilder deaths that made headlines in the industry. Many of the deaths were competitors under the age of 50. It was a sad stretch of time in bodybuilding. While there were no direct links between the various deaths – the news reignited a conversation about health in bodybuilding. Jake Wood, owner of the Mr. Olympia, even made a comment lobbying for healthier standards in the sport.
We recently had a chance to reconnect with Dr. George Touliatos, also known as Dr. Testosterone. We decided to take this opportunity to ask him about the health dangers in bodybuilding. Most specifically, if diuretics were a real danger in the sport – and just how necessary they are for success as a pro bodybuilder.
There are many experts and athletes who have begun to speak out about the use of diuretics in bodybuilding. Legendary bodybuilder Ronnie Coleman went on the record to say that he thinks they should be completely banned from the sport. So just how dangerous are these drugs really?
Dr. Testosterone makes it clear that diuretics are one of the riskiest drugs a bodybuilder can take. When used correctly, they are harmless. But the consequences for misusing diuretics are fast and have a high change of being fatal. Misuse of diuretics can lead to a bodybuilder to pass out quickly after use – and if not treated fast enough can lead to death.
Dr. Testosterone stresses that this is only the case when misused. But compared to other drugs used in the sport – the cost for accidentally overdosing can be swift and deadly.
“Diuretics are an instant danger and can kill you right away,” Dr. Testosterone states in his interview. Other PEDs can have long term health effects but very few can lead to sudden major health consequences like diuretics. The only other drug with that kind of sudden danger is insulin.
So how prevalent is diuretic use in the sport. Is it a “mandatory” aspect for athletes to achieve the quality of physique we are familiar with on stage? Dr. Testosterone flip flops on this question for a moment – then seems to ultimately say that, as it stands right now, they seem to be a required aspect of bodybuilding contest prep.
“When you want to have ripped glutes, you know, this is the final touch. The ripped glutes. To be shredded,” Dr. Testosterone states in our interview. He continues:
“Because the Christmas tree, the hams, and the pecs are striated even four weeks out. But the glutes, which is what they see from the rear, you know? And they judge the conditioning out of this. I guess, they [diuretics] are mandatory. It depends on how you use them.”
You can watch Dr. Tesosterone go into full detail about diuretics in bodybuilding by watching our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
10 Testosterone Facts You Can’t Afford Not Knowing
10 Testosterone Facts You Can’t Afford Not Knowing
Ask a brofessor to choose between $10,000 prize money or an optimal testosterone level throughout his lifting career, and he will most probably select the latter. Testosterone is one of the most talked-about and yet misunderstood hormones in gym circles.
Whether you join a gym to build muscle mass or lose weight, chances are you will have the word “testosterone” thrown at you at least once. There is just no escaping it. Before you get swayed by broscientists into doing things you will later regret, you should equip yourself with the correct knowledge about testosterone.
10 Important Facts
1. It Makes You A Man
Testosterone is responsible for:
Facial hair growth
Building muscle mass
Deepening of the voice
Development of the sexual organs, sperm production, and libido
Improving bone density
Fat Distribution
Red blood cell production
For men, testosterone production happens in the testicles. Although test is a male hormone, women produce small quantities of the hormone in the ovaries for optimal body functioning.
Low T-levels in men can cause mood swings, a decrease in bone density, muscle mass. It can also result in body fat gain, hair loss, depression, low sex drive, fatigue, and irritability.
2. Fix Your Diet
Fixing your diet is one of the most efficient ways to improve your testosterone levels naturally. Broccoli, oysters, strawberries, tuna, and egg yolks are some of the best test-boosting superfoods.
You can also improve your T-levels by limiting your alcohol intake, losing weight, and working out regularly. Cutting out junk food from your diet can also spike your T-levels.
3. Boost Your T-Levels By Staying Single
An Italian study found that men who had recently (within the previous six months) fallen in love had lower levels of testosterone compared with those who had not.
On the other hand, women in the same study group showed higher testosterone levels. The research points us towards two conclusions:
Men face a higher degree of stress in a new relationship.
Women are the real boss.
4. Make It Rain
Research conducted at the University of Utah found that testosterone levels in men rise when their favorite sports team wins. Another study showed earning money had the same test-boosting effect in men.
These studies show the correlation between self-esteem and testosterone. A study found that watching porn also caused a 35% testosterone spike in males. Before you head off to watch a few manly videos for “research purposes,” we recommend reading this article until the end for more T-boosting wisdom.
5. Age Is Not An Excuse
Younger people usually consider themselves immune to low testosterone levels. Men of any age can have low T-levels, especially if they have encountered damage to their testes or pituitary gland in the past. Type-2 diabetes, obesity, sleep apnea are also known to be the causes for low testosterone levels in men.
Some people mistakingly think of testosterone as the fountain of youth. Testosterone therapy will do nothing for the 75-80% of men over 65 who have normal T-levels. However, men with below-normal levels might see a boost in sexual drive and bone density from supplemental testosterone.
6. Fun Fact About Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Arnold Berthold, a German zoo curator, observed the earliest form of testosterone replacement therapy in 1849 on castrated roosters.
The roosters stopped fighting, crowing and their combs did not grow. These chickens were back to their old selves as soon as their testes were reconnected.
We guess the new-age Arnold Berthold would conduct the same experiment inside the UFC octagon.
7. Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels
But how do you know if you are encountering low testosterone levels? Some of the most common symptoms include:
Erectile dysfunction or problems developing or maintaining an erection
Fewer spontaneous erections
Increased body fat
Rapid hair loss
Decreased libido
Infertility
Reduced muscle mass
Persistent fatigue
Enlarged breasts in men
Sleep disturbance
These symptoms could also be the result of other medical conditions. While encountering one or a few of these signs might not be a symptom of low T-levels, you should consult a doctor to identify the underlying cause.
8. Causes of Low Testosterone Levels
Testicular failure
Damage to the testes (from physical trauma, alcoholism, or viral illnesses)
Hypothalamic disease or tumor
Pituitary disease or tumor
Chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol levels
Genetic diseases including Klinefelter, Kalimantan, or Prader-Willi syndromes
Being overweight or obese
Drugs or anabolic steroids
9. Normal Testosterone Levels
Generally, the normal test range in males is about 270-1070 per deciliter (ng/dL) with an average level of 679 ng/dL. About 40% of men over age 45 will have levels that come in below that range.
Testing for T-levels is not as easy as it might sound. Your results will vary depending on the time you get your tests done because your stress levels can fluctuate throughout the day.
Normal testosterone ranges are based on morning samples when the average person is at a higher test level. Afternoon tests may give a false impression of low testosterone levels.
You must consult your doctor and decide a time that best suits your lifestyle. Most doctors recommend getting your testosterone check-ups done between 7-10 a.m.
Testosterone levels are hard to analyze. Even if your testosterone levels are below the average 679 ng/dL, you still might not have to worry. Most doctors say that reading between 200-300 ng/dL is a gray area.
10. Eat The Greens
Vegetables such as spinach, Swiss chard, and kale are rich in magnesium, a mineral that might increase the body’s testosterone levels. A 2011 study found that using magnesium supplements for four weeks prompted an increase in testosterone levels of physically inactive participants.
We are sure one of your vegan friends have already told you this, but here it is again – vegan men tend to have higher testosterone levels than both meat-eaters and vegetarians.
Bonus: Low Testosterone Treatment
If you have low testosterone levels, you should begin by making necessary adjustments to your lifestyle. Most men who lose 7%-10% of their body weight see their T-levels improve.
Fixing your diet, working out, drinking less booze, not smoking, getting a good night’s sleep, reducing stress can help maintain healthy test levels.
If nothing seems to work, you could consider testosterone therapy. You could get extra doses of the hormone in the following ways:
Patches
Gels and creams
Injections
Tablets
Pellets
Do you think vegans have higher test levels than meat-eaters?
Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.