Performance Enhancement Drugs For American Sports

The growing issue of performance-enhancement drugs in American sports today brings about an image that all performance drugs are unhealthy. However, not all performance enhancement drugs are hurtful. The real issue of performance drugs is medical need versus physical want. Moreover, performance-enhancement drugs should still be allowed but with restrictions. The first issue of performance-enhancement drugs (PED) and probably the most recognized PEDs are the use of anabolic steroids.†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦anabolic steroids may provide distinct benefit in size, strength, and stamina† (McCloskey). Anabolic agents are those that promote the growth of muscle, while androgenic agents are those that promote the development of male characteristics such as a†¦show more content†¦These elements remove all of the excess water that the body may be holding. Use of diuretics can not only it can lead to great weight loss, but it can also dilutes the urine which causes drug test to come up neg ative even if the athlete is using illegal drugs such as marijuana or cocaine. A final supplement that one may use is Creatine. Creatine is a nutritional supplement that basically makes it so more water goes into ones muscles during a workout. â€Å"Some athletes use creatine to try to improve their performance in sports that involve short muscle bursts of intense activity† (Robinson). Creatine is probably one of the safest supplements out there if fact, it is offered over the counter at stores such as Costco or the local Nutrishop. Although it has not really been tested, there have also been no complaints about this supplement. Now like every other aspect of the world, PEDs do come with positive and negative effects. Positive effects of PEDs are, for one, they help the body build muscle faster. This makes the individual stronger with less effort. Some performance enhancing drugs also increase muscle mass; performance enhancing drugs give athletes more energy and increase end urance. â€Å"Athletes turn to stimulants, supplements, steroids, and human growth hormones (HGH) for a variety of reasons [†¦] Athletes may seek chemical help in making their training more effective or in helping them fight off fatigue and soreness