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Natural Bodybuilding vs Steroid Bodybuilding

natural bodybuilding vs steroid bodybuildingThis topic is one of the most discussed in the bodybuilding community and is very controversial too. Both natural bodybuilding and steroid bodybuilding have been practiced since long and each group feels that their method of body building is “right”. Before coming to a conclusion, let’s first understand the difference between the two and then decide which one is better.

Natural Bodybuilding 

  • Naturally bodybuilders do not use any sort of synthetic steroids or other drugs in order to build more muscle mass or get leaner. They entirely rely on lifting heavy weights, consuming a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest.
  • Natural bodybuilders may not be able to put on as much muscle mass as steroid users but they build muscles that are long lasting and sustainable.
  • Besides building muscles that last, they have a better overall health and faster metabolism.
  • It reduces blood pressure, increases bone density and keeps cholesterol levels under control. It improves your metabolism, reduces your fat percentage and is a great stress buster.

Steroid Bodybuilding

  • These builders use Anabolic-androgenic steroids. These drugs are a synthetic form of testosterone (the male hormone), are injected into the body for quick benefits but are illegal in most competitions.
  • Steroids may give you the pump to train at a higher level than you could possibly do naturally. Your recovery rate would be faster, you would be able to train for longer and build more muscle mass but all of this comes with several side effects and are potentially dangerous, in the long run!
  • Some of the serious side-effects of taking steroids for bodybuilding include:
    • Hormonal Imbalances – Suppressed Testosterone Production 
    • Infertility, low libido, testicular atrophy, Gynecomastia (breast tissue growth in a man) 
    • Accelerated Hair loss
    • Skin issues – Acne/Oily Skin
    • Increased heart rate
    • Increased LDL Cholesterol, Hypertension, Increased risk of Stroke/Heart attack
    • Liver Toxicity
    • Kidney Damage, Fluid retention
    • Mental Health Issues, Insomnia, Mood Swings
    • Increased risk of premature DEATH. 

Which is Better?

After reading the potential side effects of steroids, I’m sure you understand why going the natural way is the better choice! If you are looking to improve your appearance and increase overall health without any negative side effects, then you should stick to natural bodybuilding.

The best way to stay healthy and maintain a muscular body for long is finding ways to increase the natural testosterone production rather than counting on steroids that have dangerous health risks and eventually lose your muscles. If you are willing to train hard, have a proper plan, you will surely achieve your goal without any artificial/synthetic drug support. So, just set your goal and go after it!

To learn more about the natural ways to increase testosterone levels and bodybuilding, check out Healthy Reads or consult a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce 

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Effects of ALCOHOL on your health..?

Effects of alcohol

Today, most of are used to late night parties – whether it’s an office party, a birthday celebration, a marriage anniversary or similar events. Partying is often seen as a way to relieve stress and enjoy ourselves.

One of the most common beverage at parties is ALCOHOL. Any celebration is often marked by the presence of beer, vodka, champagne, tequila, rum, whisky, etc., flowing like water. Some people enjoy drinking alcohol, whether it’s hard liquor or beer, while others are social drinkers who drink to enjoy and celebrate. Many drink under the guise of being stressed or overworked, which can lead to become an alcoholic.

The harmful effects of alcohol on our body and immune system are well-known, but there is still a constant desire to drink at every opportunity.

The real fact is that many people are not completely aware of the dangerous side effects of alcohol and how it can lead to addiction, which is harmful to one’s immune system and the liver.

A good immune system helps our body fight diseases and virus that enter our body. However, excessive alcohol consumption deprives the body of valuable immune-boosting nutrients, such as Vitamin A, and can impair white blood cells, which are our body’s defense against illness and disease, making them less able to kill germs.

Damage to the immune system increases with the level of alcohol consumed. For those who are addicted to alcohol, there are several immediate issues such as:

  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Upset stomach
  • Headaches
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Distorted vision and hearing
  • Impaired judgment
  • Decreased perception and coordination
  • Unconsciousness
  • Anemia (loss of red blood cells)
  • Coma
  • Blackouts (memory lapses, where the drinker cannot remember events that occurred while under the influence)

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

Binge drinking and continued alcohol use in large amounts are associated with numerous health issues and heart problems, including:

  • Unintentional injuries such as car crashes, falls, burns, drowning
  • Intentional injuries such as firearm injuries, domestic violence
  • Increased on-the-job injuries and loss of productivity
  • Increased family problems, broken relationships
  • Alcohol poisoning
  • High blood pressure, stroke, and other heart-related diseases
  • Liver disease
  • Nerve damage
  • Sexual problems
  • Permanent damage to the brain
  • Vitamin B1 deficiency, which can lead to a disorder characterized by amnesia, apathy, and disorientation
  • Ulcers
  • Gastritis (inflammation of stomach walls)
  • Malnutrition
  • Cancer of the mouth and throat

Alcohol is not just harmful to your body and its systems; it can also lead to weight gain. Research shows that calories from alcohol are “empty calories,” meaning they have no nutritional value. Most alcoholic drinks contain traces of vitamins and minerals, but not usually in amounts that significantly contribute to our diet.

Drinking alcohol also reduces the amount of fat your body burns for energy. While we can store nutrients, protein, carbohydrates, and fat in our bodies, we can’t store alcohol. So our systems want to get rid of it, and doing so takes priority. All of the other processes that should be taking place (including absorbing nutrients and burning fat) are thus interrupted due to alcohol.

Here are some common alcoholic beverage and the alcohol content:

  • Beer: 2-6% alcohol
  • Wine: 8-20% alcohol
  • Tequila: 40% alcohol
  • Rum: 40% or more alcohol
  • Brandy: 40% or more alcohol
  • Gin: 40–47% alcohol
  • Whiskey: 40–50% alcohol
  • Vodka: 40–50% alcohol 

These are some calories counts for various drinks:

  1. Beer contains 43 calories per 100 ml
  2. Wine contain 83 calories per 100 ml
  3. Tequila contains 96 calories in one jigger (shot)
  4. Rum contains 231 calories per 100 ml
  5. Brandy contains 104 calories in one jigger (shot)
  6. Gin contains 222 calories per 100grams
  7. Whisky contains 700 calories per 100 ml
  8. Vodka contains 231 calories per 100 ml

Having said all this, would you still want to consume alcohol? Think twice.

We hope this article helps you understand the effects of alcohol on your health. If you have any tips or experiences to share about managing alcohol consumption, let us know in the comments below. For more health tips and information, check out Healthy Reads or speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

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Monsoon Magic: Navigating the Lush Trails of Sahyadri Safely

Trekking in the Sahyadri ranges during the monsoon season offers a mesmerizing experience with lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and the fresh aroma of wet earth. The monsoons transform the Sahyadri into a verdant paradise, attracting numerous trekkers and nature lovers.

So, what makes trekking so enjoyable and rejuvenating? Is it so difficult that only a select few can do it? These questions are best answered by experiencing a trek first hand. For those still trying to decide whether to venture into trekking, let me give you a sneak preview.

While trekking, you may find yourself stuck or simply in awe of the untouched beauty around you. This beauty, often missed while traveling by car, embeds itself permanently in your memory. Trekking involves confronting new situations throughout the day, making each little thing a cherished memory for life. Human togetherness becomes simple in the face of this challenging lifestyle for otherwise confused and unprepared minds.

Trekking during the monsoon season comes with its own set of challenges and requires careful planning and preparation. The trails can be slippery due to rain and mud, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Streams and rivers can swell suddenly, making crossings risky. Visibility can also be reduced during heavy rains, which may lead to disorientation.

Essential Skills and Preparation

Contrary to popular belief, trekking is not tough. If you know how to walk, you can trek. However, this doesn’t mean venturing into unknown territories alone. Walking along a trail with a backpack doesn’t require exceptional skills but does require physical fitness, planning, the right clothes, shoes, and above all, common sense.

A first-time trekker should start with easy, effortless trails of about an hour and gradually work up to longer, more difficult treks. The difficulty of any trek depends on the terrain’s hilliness and altitude. Most walking trips tailored for moderately active people cover gentle terrain at low altitudes, with optional shorter routes and breaks along the trails. This applies to treks in Maharashtra or in South India.

 

Respecting Nature and Safety

Respecting nature and the environment is crucial while trekking. Living in harmony with nature during a trek rewards you with an enriching feeling of rejuvenation.

Here are some tips for safe trekking in the Sahyadris’ during the monsoons:

Proper Gear: Equip yourself with good quality, non-slip trekking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and quick-dry clothing. A sturdy walking stick can also provide additional support on slippery trails. Choose a well-fitted backpack with multiple pockets, padded shoulder straps, and large zipper closures. The base should sit on your hips, and the top should be at least one hand-width below the base of your neck.

Essentials in Your Day Pack: At least 2 litres water, Swiss Army knife, Map if you have one, compass, a rain jacket or a poncho is a must.

Stay Informed: Check the weather forecast before setting out and be prepared for quick weather changes. Avoid trekking during a heavy downpour or when thunderstorms are predicted.

Experienced Company: It’s safer to trek with experienced and certified guides who know the area well and can navigate safely through challenging terrain. Avoid going with information posted by groups on social Media.

First Aid Skills: A basic first aid course is beneficial. At the very least, know how to bandage a wound and detect signs of dehydration and heatstroke. However, in the absence of not knowing first aid, ensure your guide is first aid trained.

Emergency Preparedness: Carry a basic first aid kit, a whistle for emergency signals, and keep your mobile phone fully charged for emergencies. Inform someone about your trekking plans and expected return time.

Environmental Awareness: Be mindful of the flora and fauna. The monsoon is a crucial breeding season for many species, and it’s important to tread carefully and respect wildlife habitats.

Trekking in the Sahyadri during the monsoons can be a thrilling and rejuvenating experience if done with caution and respect for nature. With the right preparations and safety measures, you can enjoy the breath taking beauty of the rain-soaked Sahyadri safely.

Happy Trekking!

#BeTheForce

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Pedaling Towards Better Health

cycling

Embracing the pedal, cycling emerges as an unmatched ally in our quest for fitness and environmental stewardship. Ideal for the daily grind, it’s the perfect choice for those fortunate to work within a few kilometers from home.

However, finding a cycle-friendly zone can be challenging in the city’s bustling streets. Yet, cycling is an unrivalled option for maintaining fitness while contributing to a greener environment. Even if the city’s pace doesn’t always accommodate cyclists, there’s always a way to weave a 30-minute ride into your daily routine. Be it the serenity of park circuits or the quieter stretches away from the thrum of traffic, these pockets of peace offer a perfect backdrop for a daily pedal. This World Bicycle Day, let’s pledge to carve out time for cycling, ensuring we stay fit and do our bit for the planet, one ride at a time, despite the urban hustle.

Remember these essential tips for a safe ride:

  • Wear appropriate clothing, such as a t-shirt and padded shorts, and invest in a well-fitted helmet, bike reflectors, headlights, gloves, sturdy shoes, and eye protection.
  • Always wear a helmet for safety.
  • Keep to the left side of the road to allow traffic to pass.
  • Stick to well-lit paved roads, and if available, use bike paths, otherwise opt for service roads or park circuits where cycling is allowed
  • Make yourself visible with reflective clothing and use front and back lights on your bike
  • Signal your turns using arm and hand gestures
  • Keep your bike in good condition

Health Benefits of Pedaling:

Understanding the right way to sit on a bicycle is crucial before exploring its myriad health advantages. The right posture isn’t just about pedaling efficiently; it’s about keeping your body free from injury and discomfort.

Thanks to the bicycle’s design, which supports your sitting bones – the ischial tuberosities in your pelvis – cycling offers a joint-friendly exercise alternative. Unlike walking, which puts a burden on your legs, cycling spares your joints and is especially beneficial for those dealing with joint pain or the natural stiffness that comes with ageing.

Making cycling a regular part of your routine can help in warding off chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It’s a mood enhancer and an effective way to manage weight. Aim for an hour of cycling each day to not only reduce stress but also to build muscle strength and flexibility. Plus, cycling bolsters your immune system and releases endorphins – those feel-good hormones that keep you feeling youthful and vibrant. And as a bonus, it significantly boosts your stamina.

We hope this article inspires you to embrace cycling and experience its numerous health benefits. How do you incorporate cycling into your daily routine? Share your experiences in the comments below!

#BeTheForce

From Terminal Illness To Complete Wellness! Ananda Mukherjee Health Story

As we observe World Cancer Day under the powerful theme ‘United by Unique’ (2025-2027)**, we are reminded that every individual’s journey with cancer is distinct, yet united by shared resilience, hope, and the collective fight against this disease. This theme places people at the centre of care and their stories at the heart of the […]