Steroids

HGH vs. Steroids: What Is the Strongest One?

Published

5 years ago

November 9, 2020

Paul

What makes you a regular visitor to the gym? A masculine, aesthetic, and strong body? Or is it for a health reasons? Either way, performance enhancement is not a new concept in fitness and bodybuilding. PEDs are a significant topic in sports, and it is almost always covered in news media and publications. HGH vs. Steroids never miss out on any discussion involving body enhancement drugs. Arguably some of the strongest body enhancers in existence, there is a thin line between HGH and steroids.

HGH and Steroids: Key Difference

First off, what are the main similarities between HGH and steroids? That the two compounds are body-enhances is an obvious similarity. The two drugs are classified in a broad class of body enhancers called ergogenic acids. However, Steroids should not be confused with human growth hormones; the two are different.

Sportsmen and women use both steroids for recovery purposes, to get back in action early enough when the time comes. HGH, on the other hand, is used to enhance performance in action. The difference is in how they affect the body’s coordination capabilities. While steroids make you stockier and slow, HGH improves limb-eye coordination, thus making you faster, and that is in addition to looking stockier.

Now that you know the difference between the two enhancers, let us now take you through certain things that make either of them stronger than the other. Please note that the differences, advantages, and disadvantages cancel out one way or another. How is that so? For the simple reason that both HGH and steroids are quite versatile, with unique features.

HGH Legal Notice

The use of all anabolic by persons of any gender is regulated by law. Generally, anabolic steroids have been banned for use in any other purpose other than the one prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner. The law’s stance on these substances has been informed by the life-threatening effects associated with their usage. Controlled usage is not harmful, like the case with many other drugs, misuse, and overdose is. Unfortunately, it has not proven easy to monitor individuals' drug usage. People have lost lives or have been permanently incapacitated by the use of drugs.

Naturally, we wouldn’t recommend the usage of HGH and steroids under normal circumstances. But people have continued to use them even though they know how dangerous the side effects could use. It leaves us with only one option; to educate, inform, and guide those who decide to use the drugs nonetheless.

The drugs have been banned not because they are bad. They are not recommended because the results are a mixture of hits and misses. Scientifically, any substance showing such characteristics is considered unsafe and is not released to the public. However, the legal consequences of using the drug are not as severe. Come to think of it this way; the law doesn’t recommend the drug but has not outlawed it completely. It is more of a use-it-at-your-own-risk situation. It means you are left with a huge responsibility and choice. If you don’t use the product well, then you have yourself to blame.

Human Growth Hormone

HGH is ‘Human Growth Hormone’ in full. The body produces HGH naturally. It provides the body with various anabolic properties that enable it to carry out specific physiological functions. The brain exclusively does the synthesis and production of the HGH. The pituitary gland is the specific organ of the brain that produces the hormone. HGH is then transported to areas of growth, such as joints, where they enhance the growth and multiplication of tissues.

Human Growth Hormone >> HERE

It is at the liver where the hormone is used to increase the concentration of other hormones in the body. The hormones play a role in various physiological processes that support growth. One of these anabolic hormones is testosterone. Testosterone is particularly important in enhancing the efficiency of HGH; that is why this compound is usually stacked with the hormone.

HGH is wrongly assumed to be a reserve for amateurs. That belief is false and misleading. Even if you consider yourself a pro, this is one ground you should tread carefully. We have already explained that different systems respond differently to the drug. Yours might be one of those which respond fast and negatively. Unfortunately, this drug is almost impossible to get a doctor’s prescription. However, one can get a private doctor to guide them appropriately.

Genotropin 5.3mg (16UI) >> HERE

Scientists used this understanding of the naturally produced HGH to manufacture it artificially. HGH used by bodybuilders, is a powerful peptide hormone with 109 amino acids. If used well, the drug comes with many benefits for the bodybuilder.

What Are the Main Benefits of HGH?

Synthetic HGH is nothing more than the enhanced version of the hormone produced by the body. It is necessary to enhance the naturally-occurring hormone because it is not strong enough to be of any muscular advantage. It also does not speed up recovery after strenuous activity. HGH has the following benefits for bodybuilders and other sportspersons:

Muscle Strength –

Enhanced muscle strength is the ultimate gift to bless any bodybuilder with. What could be more humiliating than trying to lift a weight in vain, yet people around you are doing it like a cutting cake? HGH comes to your rescue if you have been a victim of that. The compound gives you nearly as good as natural muscular strength. You may argue that progressive training, where you lift heavier weights in every subsequent training session, is the way to go.

Although it is an effective way of gaining natural muscle strength, achieving that objective might take longer than expected. Users normally inject HGH to gain strength faster. And just like that, you will start Lifting weights twice heavier than the ones you are used to. HGH increases strength and power output by stimulating collagen in the skeletal muscle and tendons.

Related Article:: Top 5 Keys to Build Muscle and Strength

Muscle Recovery After Injury –

Bodybuilders and sportspeople use HGH to speed up their recovery after an injury or surgery. HGH works on the muscles, so the muscular tissues around an injured area will heal faster when the drug is used. The recovery process quickens once the muscular tissue has been rehabilitated. A combination of hormones, minerals, and growth factors is typically responsible for tissue healing. HGH helps heal torn or pulled muscles as well as injured bones. The drug ensures that every injured athlete gets back in action faster than they would if they healed naturally. It is one of the reasons HGH is popular in high-contact and competitive sports.

Faster General Recovery –

Although HGH works best with muscles and tendons, it generally speeds up the body’s recovery process. It doesn’t necessarily mean recovery from an injury. When you have been lifting weights the entire time and need to recover your strength, HGH will help you with that. Vigorous physical body activities involve breaking down the muscles. The recovery process involves giving your muscles time to recover. The body carries out its repair, but the process is so slow. If you were to wait for your muscles to repair themselves before resuming your sport, you might as well end up missing one or two sessions. With the help of HGH, one can resume competition almost immediately.

The drug enhances the process of protein synthesis, thus allowing the body to produce more muscle protein to replace the ones damaged or destroyed by the heavyweights. Replacing muscle tissue is not the only benefit of HGH. It also produces more muscle so that there are more muscles than when you began lifting weights. It is important to note that delayed recovery after vigorous activity leads to a condition known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). For faster protein synthesis and recovery, use HGH after every workout.

Steroids

Steroids have received more stereotypes than any other body-enhancement drug. It is difficult to talk about steroids without making people view them in a bad light. The level of misunderstanding accompanying steroids has been made worse by a media that is fond of blowing things out of proportion. Unfortunately, significant sports management bodies have believed the lies and half-truths surrounding steroids. Sportspersons have borne the brunt of this kind of misconception and misinformation to a huge extent.

Since we are about putting bare facts on the table, we will give you a brief scientific review of steroids. Just how bad are steroids? Do you have to worry about using them at all? You will decide for yourself once you have read about them.

Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids

Steroids, officially known as Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS) have been proven to offer bodybuilders many benefits. Depending on how you use them, steroids are also considered a double-edged sword. People have had their performance greatly enhanced by their use. And at the same time, people have lost their life by merely using them, not necessarily abusing them. Generally, your body’s tolerance to enhancement substances will determine whether they are for you or not.

Just like the case with HGH, steroids used by bodybuilders are synthetic and have many benefits. Technically, steroids are synthetic forms of testosterone with almost every benefit that comes with testosterone. However, the sheer amount of testosterone and other additives in steroids is far more than recommended.

How do Steroids work in the Body?

Steroids are constantly changing the number of individual component molecules and end up not looking like the way they started. One such component is ester bonds which h increase the rate at which the body utilizes steroids. How helpful or harmful is this scenario? It is helpful because it allows you to do things you are not naturally capable of. If a particular weight has been giving you problems, using steroids gives you instant energy to handle it. The energy and power caused by steroids can be too much and will burn you down. That is the danger of using steroids beyond your body's tolerance.

There are two ways of finding out if you can tolerate the drug. One is to start with a small dose that is not taken frequently. You can use the normal dosage with the required frequency if there are no serious effects. Secondly, you could look for a personal doctor to analyze your body to see if it is compatible with the drug. Once you get results through either of these methods, do the needful. Most importantly, never force something on your system if it resists it. That way, you will be safe and healthy.

Related Article:: 6 Best Anabolic Steroids for Men – The Top List!

Can Energy in Steroids Be Managed?

The simple answer is YES. And the difficult one is YES and NO. Ester bonds which are characteristic of steroids, can be shortened or lengthened. Shortening or lengthening affects the active uptake rates of the steroids. While this method is the only sure way of regulating the work of the drugs in the human body, there is little that can be done to change them once they have been administered. If not done outside the body, the steroids will do what they will once they enter the system. Sometimes they are lengthened outside the body, but they behave quite differently once they arrive in the system. Additionally, how the body utilizes the drugs is something difficult to predict. All one has to do is sit back and hope their body will only utilize the correct amount of steroids and convert the rest to a less harmful product.

Why Do People Fear Steroids?

People who have no idea of the working mechanisms of proteins don’t know that there are weaker and more powerful ones. Trenbolone, for example, is one powerful steroid that packs heaps of muscle mass. On the other hand, Anavar is relatively weaker and rarely has any side effects.

Despite all the negativity, steroids are perfect for building muscle because they improve testosterone circulation in the body. The presence of this hormone is the reason steroids are highly anabolic.

Benefits of Steroids

If you asked experts who have done an independent analysis of steroids, they would say that steroids have more benefits than side effects. But there are conditions one has to meet to get the benefits in full, just like any other drug. Firstly, you must be active in a sport or other high-adrenaline activity. Reason? The immense energy provided by the steroids must be used somehow. The second condition that must be fulfilled is the obvious one; you must not misuse or abuse the drug through overdosing or any other way. We may never exhaust all the benefits of steroids, but we shall share the main ones.

Muscle Growth –

This is by far the biggest benefit that comes with using steroids correctly. As discussed, some steroids build more muscle than others. If you are starting from scratch, we recommend starting with weaker steroids and progressing to the more powerful ones as your muscles grow. People with bigger natural muscles can handle stronger steroids like Tren. As you may be aware, the process of protein synthesis, which is responsible for muscle building, uses nitrogen within the muscle system. Most steroids will create a nitrogen balance within the muscles.

Powerful steroids increase the muscles' nitrogen supply, while weaker ones only increase it to a lesser amount. As a result, weaker asteroids will only have marginal effects on the muscles, while stronger ones increase them considerably. One cycle of a powerful steroid-like Tren, Test-E, or Dianabol will increase muscle mass from 10 to 35 pounds.

Dianabol >> HERE

The increase happens in about 4 to 12 weeks if you are on the right diet and with discipline in your training sessions. Sometimes the transformation is so spectacular that the user looks photoshopped in pictures. But don’t be deceived by the sheer muscle size; sometimes, they are not as strong and powerful as they look.

Enhanced Athletic Performance –

Besides bodybuilders, most athletes use steroids to enhance performance in their respective sports. To such individuals, a good physique is just a plus. The elite level in every competition is so competitive that some competitors have to use body enhancers to compete favorably. However, this little trick has landed many athletes in trouble with the law since steroids are banned. Steroids help users in the following ways:

Boosting red blood cells count. The more red blood cells there are, the more oxygen reaches body tissue, such as muscles. More oxygen means the muscles can replenish their energy at a faster rate. Other body cells and tissues also receive increased energy and nutrients, and their combined functions improve the user’s performance.

Asteroids increase muscular mass, hence improving performance. Bigger muscles perform better compared to smaller ones. The drugs increase the body’s metabolic rate. Increased metabolism means nutrients are being produced faster and supplied to organs to replace depleted energy reserves.

Fat Loss –

Asteroids have thermogenic properties that promote the metabolism of amino acids—fat metabolism produces tremendous amounts of energy. Powerful steroids promote the conversion of virtually every bit of fat to produce energy. Such steroids should only be taken in moderate amounts to avoid burning you down. For this reason, bodybuilders use steroids in the lead-up to a competition.

Winstrol >> HERE

Winstrol is one example of a steroid that works efficiently in cutting—powerful steroids like this speed up fat metabolism without causing bloating or water retention in your body. Bodybuilders are the biggest beneficiaries of steroids in this regard because sometimes, all they need is the energy to activate their muscles.

HGH Vs. Steroids: What Is the Strongest One?

Having looked at each of these body enhancers in detail, it is about time we decided which of the two is stronger. If you have been following keenly, you already have an idea.

Although some people use the two drugs to complement each other, the two are quite different and works in fairly different ways. If you want an impressive physique with outstanding features, steroids are your best chance to get there. For this reason, steroids are more popular with bodybuilders. HGH does not produce any noticeable physical differences. Instead, this kind of body enhancer mainly enhances performance. They are thus more popular with athletes in competitive sports, not bodybuilders.

To enhance performance and arrive at a middle ground between a great physique and an excellent performance, the two drugs are stacked together. The combination will give you strength and stamina to perform exceptionally in any sport or activity.

Before you use either of these drugs, you should start by deciding what you want. You should go for steroids if you are after massive muscle mass and strength. We recommend taking HGH alone for those who want to maintain their relatively medium size and perform better simultaneously. There are many steroids to stack with HGH, but you have to be careful not to create a bomb from it. The dosage should be minimal if you use high-energy steroids like Tren. But it all depends on what you want for your body.

Conclusion

So then, what is the strongest one? Asteroids are the strongest. HGH can only be as strong as steroids if they are stacked with steroids. They don’t stand a chance on their own, not if you are to use it for bodybuilding services. However, HGH works perfectly well if you only intend to enhance your performance to a small degree. For beginners, you are recommended to start with HGH.

After a while, you could upgrade to HGH stacked with steroids. You can use steroids when your body has grown strong and tolerant of the substance. Similarly, start with weaker steroids like Anavar and gradually climb the ladder. Only pros can use more powerful steroids like Trenbolone without experiencing serious side effects.

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Anabolic Steroids

Using Insulin Needles to Inject AAS: Pros and Cons

Published

5 days ago

November 30, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding has long been associated with the pursuit of physical excellence, where athletes and enthusiasts dedicate themselves to sculpting muscular physiques. You need rigorous training, disciplined nutrition, and, in some cases, the use of performance-enhancing substances. Among these substances, anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) occupy a controversial space. While medically prescribed for specific conditions, AAS are often used to accelerate muscle growth, improve recovery, and enhance overall performance. Their use, however, is fraught with ethical, legal, and health-related concerns.

One practical issue that arises in this context is the method of administration. AAS are typically injected intramuscularly, requiring needles that can deliver oil-based solutions deep into muscle tissue. Yet, some individuals turn to insulin needles—originally designed for subcutaneous delivery of insulin—as an alternative. This choice is often motivated by the perception that insulin needles are less intimidating, less painful, and more discreet. For bodybuilders who may be inexperienced with injections, the appeal of a smaller, finer needle can be strong.

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However, the suitability of insulin needles for AAS administration is highly debated. While they may offer certain conveniences, their limitations in terms of depth, absorption, and compatibility with thicker solutions raise significant concerns. Misuse can lead to complications ranging from ineffective dosing to infections and tissue damage.

Must Read: Running and Bodybuilding: Is it a Good Idea to Mix Them?

In bodybuilding culture, where experimentation and peer influence often shape practices, understanding the pros and cons of using insulin needles for AAS injections is essential. By examining both benefits and the potential risks, we can better appreciate the complexities of AAS injection and emphasize the importance of informed, responsible decision-making.

Why Insulin Needles

Insulin needles are generally preferred for many types of injections because they are shorter, thinner, less painful, and reduce the risk of complications compared to larger needles

Patient comfort: Insulin needles are designed to minimize pain. Their fine gauge and short length make injections less intimidating and more tolerable, especially for people who need frequent injections.

Reduced risk of complications: Shorter needles lower the chance of hitting muscle or nerves when delivering medication subcutaneously. This reduces risks like bruising, bleeding, or accidental intramuscular injection

Effective delivery: For insulin and other subcutaneous medications, shorter needles are just as effective as longer ones. They ensure the drug reaches the correct tissue layer without unnecessary depth.

Ease of use: Their design makes them simple to handle, even for patients self-administering injections daily. This accessibility encourages adherence to treatment

Compatibility with subcutaneous injections: Many medications besides insulin—such as certain vaccines, hormones, and biologics—are delivered under the skin. Insulin needles are well-suited for these because they match the required depth and absorption rate.

Insulin Needles vs. Intramuscular Needles in Bodybuilding

When it comes to injecting anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), bodybuilders often weigh the choice between insulin needles and traditional intramuscular needles. Insulin needles are very fine and short, usually ranging from 29 to 31 gauge and only a few millimeters in length. This makes them far less intimidating and significantly less painful to use. For athletes who inject frequently, the reduced discomfort and minimal scarring are appealing, especially since visible bruising or scar tissue can detract from the aesthetic goals of bodybuilding. Their wide availability in pharmacies and association with legitimate medical use also adds to their convenience and discretion.

However, insulin needles are designed for subcutaneous injections, meaning they deposit medication just under the skin. AAS, on the other hand, are typically oil-based compounds that require intramuscular delivery for proper absorption. The fine bore of insulin needles makes drawing and injecting these thicker solutions difficult, and their short length often fails to reach muscle tissue. This mismatch can lead to poor absorption, underdosing, or even localized complications such as abscesses and tissue irritation.

Intramuscular needles, by contrast, are longer and thicker—usually 21 to 25 gauge and 25 to 40 millimeters in length. While they cause more pain and can be intimidating for beginners, they are specifically designed to deliver oil-based substances deep into muscle tissue. This ensures that AAS are absorbed effectively and reduces the risk of complications when used correctly. Over time, repeated intramuscular injections may cause bruising or scar tissue, but medically they remain the appropriate tool for this type of administration.

In short, you may prefer insulin needles for their comfort, accessibility, and cosmetic advantages, but intramuscular needles remain the medically suitable option for AAS injections. The perceived safety of insulin needles does not outweigh the risks of improper delivery, making the choice more about convenience than effectiveness.

Downsides of Using Insulin Needles for AAS in Bodybuilding

For bodybuilders, the downsides of insulin needles in AAS use are significant: poor absorption, infection risk, tissue damage, and wasted product. While they may reduce pain and appear more convenient, they compromise both safety and effectiveness. In bodybuilding culture, where results are paramount, these drawbacks make insulin needles a risky and counterproductive choice.

Improper absorption

Insulin needles are designed for subcutaneous injections, but AAS typically require intramuscular delivery. Injecting into fat or shallow tissue can lead to poor absorption, reduced effectiveness, and unpredictable results.

Also See: Fitness Lessons from A Navy Seal’s Training Routine

Viscosity mismatch

AAS solutions are often oil-based and much thicker than insulin. Fine-gauge insulin needles struggle to draw and push these solutions, leading to blocked syringes, incomplete injections, or excessive force that damages tissue.

Risk of infection and abscesses

Because oil may pool in subcutaneous tissue instead of dispersing into muscle, it can irritate the area and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This raises the risk of painful abscesses that may require medical intervention.

Underdosing and wasted product

If the steroid doesn’t reach the muscle, the bodybuilder may not achieve the intended anabolic effect. This not only wastes expensive compounds but also tempts users to increase frequency or dosage, compounding health risks.

Tissue damage

Repeated shallow injections can cause lumps, irritation, or necrosis in fatty tissue. For bodybuilders focused on aesthetics, visible damage under the skin undermines their goals.

False sense of safety

Many athletes assume insulin needles are “safer” because they are smaller and widely used in diabetes care. In reality, this perception can mask the fact that they are medically inappropriate for AAS, leading to dangerous practices.

Related Article: Best Syringes for Steroid Injection on Amazon

Overall

Bodybuilders and athletes often face difficult choices when it comes to performance enhancement, and the method of administering anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is one of them. Insulin needles, with their fine gauge and short length, are attractive because they reduce pain, minimize scarring, and are easy to obtain. For individuals who inject frequently, these qualities can seem like practical advantages.

However, the reality is that insulin needles are not designed for oil-based compounds that require intramuscular delivery. Their short length and narrow bore make them unsuitable for reaching muscle tissue, leading to poor absorption, underdosing, and potential tissue irritation. The risk of infection or abscess formation is also heightened when AAS are deposited into fatty tissue rather than muscle. What may appear to be a safer, more comfortable option can ultimately compromise both health and performance outcomes.

Athletes who prioritize long-term progress must recognize that convenience should never outweigh safety. While insulin needles may seem appealing, they are not always appropriate for AAS administration. The discipline that defines bodybuilding and athletic success should extend to responsible decision-making, ensuring that choices made in pursuit of strength and aesthetics do not undermine overall well-being.

Anabolic Steroids

Is NAD+ The Best Anti-aging Molecule for Men Over 40?

Published

2 weeks ago

November 23, 2025

Sane

NAD+(Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) has become the quiet obsession of athletes and bodybuilders who care as much about longevity as they do about performance. For men over 40, the game changes: recovery slows, energy dips, and the margin for error—sleep, nutrition, stress—gets razor-thin. That’s where NAD+ steps in. As a central coenzyme in cellular metabolism, NAD+ powers the mitochondria that generate ATP, supports DNA repair, and helps regulate inflammation and oxidative stress—the exact pressures that compound with age and intense training. The catch? NAD+ levels decline as we get older, and that drop doesn’t just feel like “getting tired”; it shows up as reduced work capacity, stubborn recovery, and a harder fight to preserve lean mass.

For the seasoned lifter, anti-aging isn’t about turning back the clock—it’s about staying dangerous: maintaining strength, clarity, and resilience year after year. By supporting NAD+—through smart training, lifestyle, and targeted precursors like NR or NMN—you’re not chasing a miracle; you’re reinforcing the cellular systems that keep you strong. Think steadier energy across sets, cleaner recovery between sessions, and a more robust response to stressors that typically erode performance after 40.

This article explores how NAD+ intersects with muscle metabolism, hormonal signaling, and recovery pathways, and what practical steps can help you sustain the physique and output you’ve built. If you’re a man over 40 who refuses to age passively, NAD+ isn’t hype—it’s a lever worth understanding and pulling with intention.

Must Read: How to Manage Joint Stiffness While on AAS

Why NAD+ Levels Drop in Men Over 40

NAD+ levels decline with age because the body’s ability to produce and preserve this vital coenzyme weakens, while demand for it increases.

Reduced biosynthesis: The enzymes and pathways that create NAD+ from precursors like niacin and tryptophan become less efficient over time.

Increased consumption: NAD+ is used by repair enzymes such as PARPs (for DNA repair) and sirtuins (for regulating metabolism and aging). As DNA damage and oxidative stress accumulate with age, these enzymes consume more NAD+, depleting reserves.

Greater degradation: Another enzyme, CD38, becomes more active with age. CD38 breaks down NAD+, and its rising activity is strongly linked to age-related decline in NAD+.

Mitochondrial dysfunction: Aging cells often suffer from less efficient mitochondria. Since NAD+ is central to mitochondrial energy production, dysfunction accelerates its depletion.

Lifestyle and stress factors: Poor sleep, chronic stress, alcohol, and high-intensity training without proper recovery can further drain NAD+ levels, especially in men over 40

Why This Matters for Men Over 40

Lower NAD+ means slower recovery, reduced energy output, and greater susceptibility to inflammation.
Declining NAD+ is linked to fatigue, cognitive decline, and accelerated aging.

For athletes and bodybuilders, this translates into harder muscle maintenance, longer recovery windows, and plateaus in performance.

Remedies to Boost NDA+ Levels in Men Over 40

Men and athletes over 40 can boost NAD+ levels through a mix of lifestyle strategies (exercise, fasting, sleep), dietary choices (niacin-rich foods), and supplementation (NR, NMN, NAD+ IV therapy).

Lifestyle Approaches

Regular exercise: Endurance and resistance training stimulate mitochondrial function and naturally increase NAD+.

Intermittent fasting: Periods of caloric restriction activate sirtuins, which depend on NAD+.

Quality sleep: Restorative sleep reduces oxidative stress and preserves NAD+ reserves.

Stress management: Chronic stress elevates NAD+ consumption; mindfulness and recovery practices help conserve it.

Avoid excess alcohol: Alcohol metabolism depletes NAD+, so moderation is key.

Dietary Strategies

Niacin-rich foods: Chicken, tuna, salmon, turkey, and mushrooms provide vitamin B3, a precursor to NAD+.

Tryptophan sources: Eggs, dairy, and nuts support NAD+ synthesis via the kynurenine pathway.

Polyphenols: Resveratrol (found in grapes and red wine) activates sirtuins, indirectly supporting NAD+.

Ketogenic diet: Promotes fat metabolism and enhances NAD+/NADH ratio.

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Supplementation

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR): A direct precursor shown to raise NAD+ levels in humans.

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN): Another precursor with strong evidence for boosting NAD+ and supporting anti-aging pathways.

NAD+ IV therapy: Direct infusion used by some athletes for rapid replenishment.

Co-factors like magnesium and B vitamins: Support enzymatic reactions that sustain NAD+ metabolism.

Advanced/Medical Options

CD38 inhibitors: Experimental compounds that reduce NAD+ breakdown.

PARP inhibitors: Limit excessive NAD+ consumption during DNA repair (still under research).

Hormonal optimization: Testosterone and growth hormone balance indirectly support NAD+ pathways in men over 40.

The Catch:

Energy & endurance: Higher NAD+ means more efficient ATP production.

Recovery & repair: Supports DNA repair and reduces inflammation after training.

Anti-aging resilience: Helps maintain muscle mass, cognitive clarity, and metabolic health.

NAD+ Delivery Methods

1. Intravenous (IV) NAD+ Therapy

Direct infusion of NAD+ into the bloodstream.
Used in clinics for rapid replenishment of cellular NAD+.
Often promoted for anti-aging, recovery, and cognitive clarity.
Sessions can last several hours, as NAD+ must be infused slowly to avoid side effects (like nausea or flushing).

Dosing: Typically ranges from 250 mg to 1000 mg per session, but exact protocols vary by clinic and medical supervision.

2. Intramuscular or Subcutaneous Injections

Less common than IV, but some practitioners use NAD+ injections for quicker delivery than oral supplements.
Provides a shorter, more concentrated boost compared to IV drip.
Still requires medical oversight, as NAD+ injections can be uncomfortable and must be dosed carefully.

Oral Supplementation

1. NAD+ Precursors (NMN & NR)

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) are widely available as capsules or powders.
These compounds are converted into NAD+ inside cells.
Easier, safer, and more practical for long-term use compared to IV therapy.

Dosing: Common ranges are 250–500 mg daily, though some studies explore higher doses.

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2. NAD+ Capsules

Direct oral NAD+ supplements exist, but absorption is less efficient than precursors.
Most experts recommend NMN or NR instead, as they are better studied and more bioavailable.

Overall

In the pursuit of strength, endurance, and longevity, NAD+ emerges as more than just a biochemical cofactor—it is a cornerstone of vitality for athletes and men over 40. As natural levels decline with age, the consequences ripple through energy, recovery, and resilience. By embracing lifestyle strategies, nutrient-rich diets, and modern supplementation, bodybuilders can sustain performance while slowing the clock on cellular aging. Whether through daily NMN or NR, or targeted therapies under medical guidance, supporting NAD+ is an investment in both present power and future health—a path to staying strong, sharp, and ageless in the decades ahead.

Bodybuilding

Estrogen Management: SERMs and AIs Compared

Published

3 weeks ago

November 16, 2025

Sane

Hormones shape every aspect of athletic performance, from muscle growth and recovery to overall health. Testosterone often dominates the conversation in bodybuilding, but estrogen is just as influential—especially when its levels rise or fall outside the optimal range. For athletes who use anabolic steroids or performance-enhancing compounds, controlling estrogen becomes a critical part of maintaining progress and avoiding setbacks. Two classes of compounds, Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) and Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs), are central to this process.

Estrogen itself is not the enemy. It supports bone strength, cardiovascular function, and even contributes to muscle development when balanced correctly. Problems arise when estrogen levels climb too high, leading to issues such as gynecomastia (male breast tissue growth), water retention, and increased fat storage. On the other hand, suppressing estrogen too aggressively can cause joint pain, low libido, and hinder recovery. The challenge lies in achieving balance rather than elimination.

SERMs, including Tamoxifen and Clomiphene, act by blocking estrogen’s ability to bind to receptors in specific tissues. This makes them particularly valuable during post-cycle therapy (PCT), when athletes aim to restart natural testosterone production and prevent estrogen rebound. AIs, such as Anastrozole and Exemestane, work differently: they inhibit the aromatase enzyme, reducing the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. Because of this, AIs are often used on-cycle to keep estrogen levels under control.

For athletes, understanding the distinction between these compounds is more than a matter of science—it’s about protecting gains, ensuring recovery, and safeguarding long-term health. Mismanagement of estrogen can undo months of training, while strategic use of SERMs and AIs can help athletes maintain peak performance. This article explores how these tools compare, their practical applications, and the risks that come with misuse.

SERMs (Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators)

Before diving into specific compounds, it’s important to understand how Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) function. Rather than lowering estrogen levels in the bloodstream, SERMs act by blocking estrogen’s ability to bind to receptors in certain tissues, such as breast tissue or the hypothalamus.

This selective action makes them especially valuable in bodybuilding for post-cycle therapy (PCT), where athletes aim to restart natural testosterone production and prevent estrogen-driven side effects. Below are five commonly referenced SERMs and how each contributes to estrogen regulation.

Tamoxifen (Nolvadex)

Tamoxifen binds to estrogen receptors in breast tissue, preventing estrogen from activating them. This makes it highly effective in reducing the risk of gynecomastia in male athletes. In bodybuilding, it is often used during post-cycle therapy (PCT) to block estrogen’s effects while helping restore natural testosterone production. Tamoxifen does not lower estrogen levels in the blood but instead prevents estrogen from exerting its influence in certain tissues, making it a targeted approach to estrogen management.

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Clomiphene (Clomid)

Clomiphene works by blocking estrogen receptors in the hypothalamus, tricking the body into thinking estrogen levels are low. This stimulates the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH), which in turn boost natural testosterone production. For bodybuilders, Clomid is a cornerstone of PCT because it helps restart the body’s hormonal axis after a steroid cycle. Unlike AIs, Clomid doesn’t reduce estrogen production but instead modulates receptor activity to encourage hormonal recovery.

Raloxifene

Raloxifene is another SERM that blocks estrogen receptors in breast tissue, similar to Tamoxifen, but has fewer risks of uterine stimulation. In bodybuilding, it is sometimes used as an alternative to Tamoxifen for managing gynecomastia. It helps prevent estrogen-driven tissue growth without significantly affecting estrogen’s beneficial roles in bone and cardiovascular health. Its selective action makes it useful for athletes who want targeted estrogen control without broad suppression.

Toremifene

Toremifene is structurally related to Tamoxifen and works by binding to estrogen receptors, preventing estrogen from stimulating breast tissue. It is occasionally used in bodybuilding circles for PCT, though less common than Tamoxifen or Clomid. Its main advantage is a slightly different side-effect profile, which some athletes prefer. Like other SERMs, it doesn’t lower estrogen levels but blocks its activity in specific tissues.

Fulvestrant (technically a SERD, but often grouped with SERMs)

Fulvestrant binds strongly to estrogen receptors and accelerates their degradation, reducing receptor numbers. While primarily used in medical settings for breast cancer, some athletes experiment with it for estrogen control. Its mechanism is more aggressive than traditional SERMs, as it eliminates receptors rather than just blocking them. This can reduce estrogen signaling significantly, though it is less common in bodybuilding due to potency and side effects.

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AIs (Aromatase Inhibitors)

Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) take a different approach to estrogen management. Instead of blocking receptors, they target the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen. By reducing estrogen production at its source, AIs are particularly useful on-cycle, when anabolic steroid use can cause estrogen levels to rise sharply.

They help athletes avoid water retention, fat gain, and gynecomastia, though overuse can suppress estrogen too much and harm recovery. The following five examples highlight how different AIs work to regulate estrogen in bodybuilding.

Anastrozole (Arimidex)

Anastrozole inhibits the aromatase enzyme, preventing the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. In bodybuilding, it is widely used during steroid cycles to keep estrogen levels manageable, reducing risks of gynecomastia, water retention, and fat gain. Its strength lies in lowering circulating estrogen rather than just blocking receptors. However, overuse can lead to excessively low estrogen, causing joint pain and reduced libido.

Exemestane (Aromasin)

Exemestane is a steroidal AI that irreversibly binds to aromatase, permanently deactivating the enzyme. This makes it a “suicidal inhibitor,” meaning estrogen production is suppressed more completely. Bodybuilders often prefer Exemestane for its potency and lower rebound risk compared to other AIs. It helps maintain leaner physiques by reducing water retention, though it must be used carefully to avoid estrogen deficiency.

Letrozole (Femara)

Letrozole is one of the most powerful AIs, capable of reducing estrogen levels dramatically. It is sometimes used when athletes face severe estrogen-related side effects, such as advanced gynecomastia. However, its potency can be a double-edged sword, as it may suppress estrogen too much, leading to negative effects on bone health, cholesterol, and recovery. It is generally reserved for short-term or emergency use.

Testolactone

Testolactone is an older AI that also works by inhibiting aromatase activity. Though less commonly used today, it was one of the first agents available for estrogen control. In bodybuilding, it can reduce estrogen conversion modestly, but newer AIs like Anastrozole and Exemestane are more effective. Its historical role highlights the evolution of estrogen management strategies.

Vorozole

Vorozole is a non-steroidal AI that blocks aromatase activity, lowering estrogen production. While not as widely used as Anastrozole or Exemestane, it demonstrates the diversity of compounds available for estrogen regulation. In bodybuilding, it has niche applications but is less popular due to limited availability and stronger alternatives. Its mechanism is similar to other non-steroidal AIs, focusing on enzyme inhibition.

Our Verdict

SERMs and AIs both play vital roles in estrogen management for athletes. SERMs block estrogen’s effects at specific receptors, making them ideal for post-cycle recovery, while AIs reduce estrogen production directly, useful during cycles. Balanced use prevents side effects, but misuse risks health, highlighting moderation and medical guidance.

Also See: A Bodybuilder's Guide to Calorie Dumping

Overall

Estrogen management is a crucial aspect of bodybuilding, especially for athletes using performance-enhancing compounds. We explored how SERMs block estrogen’s effects at specific receptors, making them valuable in post-cycle therapy, while AIs reduce estrogen production directly, proving useful during cycles. Both approaches aim to prevent side effects such as gynecomastia, water retention, and fat gain, while supporting recovery and hormonal balance.

However, misuse can lead to health risks, including joint pain, low libido, or impaired cardiovascular function. Ultimately, moderation, knowledge, and medical guidance are essential to harness these tools safely and effectively in athletic performance.