Abstract

In order to obtain a better insight into the habits of bodybuilders an inventory study was done. By means of an interview, antropomorphometry, and measurements of blood pressure and lipoproteins, data from 42 male bodybuilders were collected. The diet was rich in protein and contained on the average 2.4 g/kg/day. The majority of the population used vitamin, mineral, and protein supplements. Before competition the caloric intake was decreased to approximately 1000 kcal/day for some weeks. Diuretics were often used to enhance weight loss. 57 of the athletes had ever used anabolic steroids (AS). In general, these substances were used according to advices from training partners and obtained on the black market. All competitive bodybuilders had experience with AS. In general, several types of AS were used at the same time. The reported side effects consisted of increases in acne, hair growth, nervousness, aggressiveness, appetite and sweating. In addition, mental depression, and gynecomastia were reported. From the measurements it is suggested that the steroid users had higher total-cholesterol levels than the non-users. HDL-cholesterol was decreased during AS use. Because of the possible unfavorable influence of AS on risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, the users of AS may be more at risk for developing cardiovascular disease. Verf.-Referat