Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are substances used by some athletes to improve strength, endurance, speed, or recovery. While they may seem like a shortcut to better performance, they can come with serious health and career risks.
Different PEDs affect the body in different ways. Anabolic steroids can increase strength and help with recovery, but may cause heart problems and other changes in the body. EPO increases red blood cells and can improve endurance, but may raise blood pressure and affect the body’s natural production of EPO.
Blood doping can also increase red blood cells, but it comes with risks such as infection and heart or blood vessel problems. Diuretics may be used to lose weight quickly or hide other banned substances, but can cause severe dehydration.
Other banned substances, such as stimulants, beta blockers, and certain painkillers, can also affect performance while creating health risks when misused.
Athletes may use PEDs because they want to win, gain recognition, earn money, or keep up with others. However, using banned substances can lead to health problems, bans, fines, and damage to an athlete’s reputation.
Smart training, proper recovery, and consistency can help athletes improve without putting their health at risk.
Read more about performance-enhancing drugs and their effects in the full article.
➥ https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zx4gk7h/revision/2
Negative impacts of Performance-enhancing drugs. (2022, December 19). BBC Bitesize. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zx4gk7h/revision/2
