How are anabolic steroids different from the steroids doctors prescribe for things like swelling or asthma?
Not all steroids are what we call “anabolic steroids.” The anabolic steroids specifically build up muscle mass (although not as much as you might think) and reduce fat development. But your body produces other steroids that do not have those properties. For instance, estrogen and progesterone are produced in the ovaries and are important for retaining feminine bodily characteristics, like menstrual periods and breast development. Other steroids, made mostly in your adrenal glands, called corticosteroids or cortisol help you to deal with stress. Cortisol also has other important regulatory functions, such as helping to adjust the salt and water content of the body. All of the normal functions of steroids are maintained properly with tiny amounts of these hormones, which your body naturally makes and needs to remain healthy. Years ago it was discovered that higher doses of corticosteroids produce anti-inflammatory effects–for this reason they are often prescribed for swelling and for as
