What are the best natural steroid alternatives?

✓Medically Reviewed By: Megan Soliman, MD

Last Updated on July 30, 2024

Steroids have long been a topic of active research Among scientists. Steroids are man-made substances that alter body functions and support muscle building, known for enhancing endurance and physical appearance.

This is why the abuse of steroids is rampant among athletes and bodybuilders. Unfortunately, the risks of steroids can be mild or severe, including acne, liver malfunctioning, and cardiovascular problems. Despite these risks, some people continuously use steroids to meet their fitness goals.

Understanding how steroids work on the body is vital to knowing why you must consider natural steroid alternatives.

Natural-Steroid-alternatives

Understanding Steroids

The human body has natural steroids that are secreted by the adrenal glands. Naturally occurring steroids are cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, aldosterone, corticosterone, and 11-deoxycorti-costerone. The primary function of steroids inside the body is to increase testosterone levels, which results in increased muscle mass throughout the body.

During heavy workouts, muscles need more oxygen to perform at their maximum potential because oxygen is required in the ATP breakdown process occurring inside muscle fibres. Steroids increase the number of red blood cells, which get more oxygen to muscles. Furthermore, steroids have anti-inflammatory properties, and therefore, sometimes, these are used to treat swelling in different body parts, which may occur due to asthma or allergic reactions against any antigen. Steroid medications are also used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases like arthritis. Some psychological conditions like depression and anxiety also require steroid medicines. Another important use of synthetic steroids is during fatal injuries to reduce pain and fast recovery.

Does that make steroids good for our bodies?

No, it’s not. All the benefits we elaborated on are from the administered use of steroids. Notice that none of the uses or benefits includes bodybuilding supplementation. Steroids are illegal substances to use without a prescription. There is a reason to warn against the unadministered use of steroids.

Natural Steroid Alternatives: Overview

Synthetic steroid supplements are hazardous, and their abuse for enhancing performance is not a good practice. Instead of relying on steroids for muscle gains, natural alternatives can offer the same benefits.

Natural steroid alternatives support the body’s mechanisms for muscle growth and recovery, rather than introducing synthetic hormones. These alternatives generally fall into several categories:

  1. Protein and Amino Acid Supplements: These provide the building blocks for muscle growth and recovery.
  2. Hormone Precursors: These substances support the body’s natural production of growth hormones and testosterone.
  3. Herbal Supplements: Certain plants and herbs have been found to have anabolic or performance-enhancing properties.
  4. Creatine: This compound helps to provide energy to muscles during high-intensity, short-duration activities.
  5. HGH Releasers: These supplements stimulate the body’s natural production of human growth hormone.

Each of these alternatives works differently:

  • Protein supplements provide essential amino acids that the body uses to build and repair muscle tissue.
  • Hormone precursors, like certain amino acids, serve as raw materials for the body to produce its own hormones.
  • Herbal supplements often contain compounds that can influence hormone levels or provide other benefits like increased energy or faster recovery.
  • Creatine works by increasing the availability of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of cells, allowing for more intense workouts.
  • HGH releasers typically contain amino acids and other nutrients that stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more human growth hormone.

While these natural steroid alternatives may not provide results as dramatic or rapid as synthetic steroids, they offer a safer, legal, and more sustainable approach to enhancing physical performance and muscle growth.

Best Natural Steroid Alternatives

One of the most popular and effective alternatives is creatine. Creatine is a substance produced naturally by the body, and it helps provide energy to the muscles. It can be taken in supplement form to increase the amount of creatine in your system and help you build muscle mass 1.

Another popular natural steroid alternative is a prohormone. Prohormones are testosterone precursor hormones that can help build muscle mass and strength 2. They can be taken in supplement form or through certain foods high in testosterone-boosting nutrients, such as zinc and magnesium 3. You can also take supplements that contain these nutrients. Another thing you can do is to try to increase your levels of human growth hormone (HGH). This can be done by doing things like strength training 4 and getting enough sleep 5. Finally, you can try natural HGH releasers that have been shown to boost HGH levels 6.

Oral HGH supplements are great natural steroid alternatives to boost your performance, improve your health, and increase muscle mass without the potential risks associated with anabolic steroids 7. While these products are not as powerful as steroids, they are still effective in providing many of the same benefits.

You can achieve excellent results from these natural steroid alternatives with supplements and diet modification 8. Hence, if you want something to work out better than synthetic steroid supplements, consider trying some of these safe options.

Comparison: Steroids vs Natural Alternatives

Here’s a quick comparison between synthetic steroids and natural alternatives such as HGH supplements:

Aspect Synthetic Steroids Natural Alternatives
Effectiveness Rapid and significant muscle gains Slower but steady progress
Side Effects Numerous and potentially severe Minimal when used as directed
Legality Illegal without prescription Generally legal
Long-term Health Impact Potentially harmful Generally safe when used properly
Mechanism of Action Introduce synthetic hormones Support natural hormone production
Dependency Can cause hormonal imbalances Low risk of dependency
Cost Can be expensive, especially long-term Variable, but often more affordable
Ease of Use Often require injections Usually oral supplements
Detectability in Drug Tests Can be detected Generally not detectable
Natural Body Functions Can suppress natural hormone production Support natural bodily functions

 

It is evident that while steroids may offer quicker results, natural alternatives like HGH releasers provide a safer, legal, and more sustainable approach to enhancing physical performance and muscle growth.

HGH Releasers and Alternatives

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is a naturally occurring hormone responsible for tissue growth, strength, and energy. It can be found in both men and women, though levels peak at different times. While increased HGH can help people build muscle and strength more quickly, too much can lead to serious health problems. Fortunately, there are ways to increase HGH production without taking dangerous supplements or injections with natural HGH supplements.

These supplements can help to increase lean muscle mass. It can also help to improve mood and reduce the risk of obesity. Additionally, HGH has been shown to improve bone density and reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.

HGH Alternatives

When it comes to taking HGH supplements, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

  1. Be sure to take them as directed by the dietician.
  2. Ensure you get a quality product by buying from a reputable source.
  3. Be aware of the potential side effects, and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.

Top 3 Natural HGH Supplements

A few options are available if you’re looking for the best HGH releasers as an alternative to steroids. HGH releasers are natural formulations that help to stimulate the production of HGH in our bodies. Made from a potent blend of amino acids and natural extracts, they can boost the body’s growth hormones, resulting in several benefits.

Let’s take a look at the best HGH releasers.

#1 HyperGH 14X

hypergh-14xHyperGH 14 is the best steroid alternative for muscle-building benefits. It is a potent HGH releaser with natural ingredients suitable for people looking to build muscle and reduce extra fat. Like other natural HGH releasers, HyperGH 14X also stimulates HGH production, creating a better environment for muscle and tissue repair.

Ingredients: L-Arginine, L Lysine, L Tyrosine, L Glycine, Tribulus Terrestris Extract, GABA, GTF Chromium, Phosphatidyl Choline, Deer Antler Velvet, Colostrum and Astragalus Root Extract.

Pros:

  • It comprises several amino acids and some natural extracts that stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more HGH.
  • HyperGH 14X is popular among bodybuilders because it reduces recovery time between workouts and promotes muscle growth and strength.
  • The natural HGH releaser offers additional benefits like improved sleep quality and immune function when combined with proper diet and regular exercise.

Cons: People having medical conditions such as high blood pressure, thyroid imbalance, and diabetes are not suitable candidates to consume these supplements as they may cause some complications like loss of sleep, stomach upset, or headaches.

Read our complete HyperGH 14X review.

#2 GenF20 Plus

genf20plus

GenF20 Plus is a natural HGH supplement that reduces the effects of aging and improves physical appearance. Made from a blend of amino acids and natural extracts, it can boost HGH levels naturally without any side effects.

Ingredients: L Arginine, Colostrum, L Valine, L Glutamine, L Glysine, L Lysine, L Tyrosine, L Ornithine, Phosphatidyl Choline, Pituitary powder, GTF Chromium, Glucose, GABA, Deer Antler Velvet, Amino Acids, and Astragalus Root Extract.

Pros:

  • GenF20 Plus has various natural amino acids that direct the pituitary gland to produce considerable HGH.
  • It has long-lasting anti-aging benefits.
  • It helps gain muscles faster after the age of 30.
  • GenF20 Plus also contains natural ingredients like tea extract and colostrum that help improve energy and metabolism.

Cons:

  • Every supplement shows results variably among consumers, so as with GenF20 Plus, some people can see results within weeks, while for others, it can take months to notice them.
  • GenF20 Plus is more expensive than other natural HGH supplements available.

Before purchasing, check out this complete GenF20 Plus review to understand its benefits and formulation.

#3 TestRX

TestRX-reviewAnother quality HGH releaser for males, TestRX is known to help build muscles, increase stamina, and boost libido in men over 30. A highly reliable oral HGH supplement to improve growth hormone secretion and boost testosterone levels, TestRX is a highly effective product. Furthermore, its manufacturers offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you do not get the promised results.

Ingredients: ZMA (Zinc Monomethionine Aspartate, Magnesium Aspartate, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Fenugreek Seed Extract, Vitamin D3, Vitamin K2, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Zinc, and D-Aspartic Acid.

Pros:

  • Increases testosterone naturally.
  • It helps build muscles faster by making your workout results more efficient.
  • Profound impact on overall health and wellness.
  • Boosts cognitive functions, mood, and memory.

Cons:

  • Some people might experience dizziness or mild nausea.
  • It is not a suitable supplement for women as it is oriented towards improving testosterone levels in men.

Know more on TestRX official website.

Importance of Proper Nutrition and Exercise

Keep in mind that while natural alternatives to steroids can be effective, for maximum benefits, they should be combined with proper nutrition and exercise. No supplement can replace a balanced diet and consistent workout regimen.

Here are some of the nutrition changes that can benefit your natural HGH supplement use:

  • Protein Intake: Consume 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to support muscle growth and recovery.
  • Carbohydrates: Include complex carbohydrates to fuel your workouts and aid recovery.
  • Healthy Fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats to support hormone production.
  • Micronutrients: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium, which play crucial roles in muscle growth and recovery.

In addition to diet changes, you can benefit from increased growth hormones by exercising. While a comprehensive and customized exercise plan is what you will need, here is a generalized exercise regime to start with:

  • Resistance Training: Engage in regular strength training exercises to stimulate muscle growth. Aim for 3-4 sessions per week, focusing on compound movements.
  • Progressive Overload: Gradually increase your strength training routine’s weight, frequency, or number of repetitions.
  • Adequate Rest: Allow for proper recovery between workouts. Muscles grow during rest, not during the actual exercise.
  • Cardiovascular Exercise: Include some form of cardio to improve overall fitness and aid in fat loss.
  • Consistency: Maintain a regular workout schedule. Results come from consistent effort over time.

Remember, natural steroid alternatives work synergistically with proper nutrition and exercise. These alternatives enhance the results but cannot replace the fundamental muscle growth and fitness principles.

Safety and Precautions: Why you must avoid steroids?

Here are the main reasons to avoid steroids for bodybuilding.

Synthetic steroids are not natural. They are used to produce the effects of testosterone to avail several advantages that other androgen compounds make 9.

Several problems arise with the breakdown of steroids in the liver. This breakdown’s end products cause liver damage and are responsible for its malfunctioning 10. This results in symptoms of liver damage like pain in abdominal muscles, persistent nausea, vomiting, and yellowing of skin and eyes due to the deposition of bilirubin (a yellow-orange bile pigment).

Using steroids reduces good cholesterol and causes a build-up of bad cholesterol in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke 11.

In addition to liver and cardiovascular risks, steroid use can adversely affect the reproductive system. In males, steroids can decrease sperm count, reduce the size of testicles, and cause impotence 12. On the other hand, in women, steroids can cause menstrual imbalance, ovary dysfunction, and the development of male characteristics like a deeper voice and facial hair 13.

Other downsides of steroids include acne, hair loss, and the development of breast tissue in males 14. Steroids can also cause stunted growth when used by young adults 15.

Even short-term abuse of steroids can have serious adverse effects on our bodies. Situations worsen when they are used in high doses for a long time 16.

Conclusion

Steroids are harmful to our bodies and must not be taken without a prescription. Natural alternatives like HGH releasers offer a safer way to avail of all the muscle-building benefits. You must remember that these supplements are not magical pills; one must take them with regular workouts and a proper diet for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are natural alternatives to steroids safe?

Yes, generally, synthetic steroid natural alternatives such as HGH releasers are completely safe. Still, always follow recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

How long does it take to see results with natural alternatives?

Results can vary depending on the individual and the specific product. Generally, you might start noticing changes within 4-8 weeks of consistent use, combined with proper diet and exercise.

Can women use these natural steroid alternatives?

Many natural steroid alternatives are suitable for both men and women. GenF20 Plus is a natural steroid alternative specifically formulated for women.

Do I need to cycle natural alternatives like I would with steroids?

Most natural steroid alternatives don’t require cycling. However, it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations or consult a healthcare professional.

Can I stack different natural alternatives together?

Some natural alternatives can be used together for synergistic effects. However, it’s crucial to research potential interactions and consult with a healthcare provider before combining supplements.

Can natural alternatives completely replace the need for steroids in bodybuilding?

While natural alternatives can provide significant benefits, they typically don’t produce results as dramatic or rapid as synthetic steroids. However, they offer a safer, legal, and more sustainable approach to enhancing physical performance and muscle growth.

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