Performance-enhancing aids in sport: health consequences and nutritional alternatives.

The use of anabolic-androgenic steroids is epidemic in the sporting world, and the recent recognition of their pervasive use by recreational and adolescent athletes has made the abuse of these drugs a public health concern. A critical review of the literature supports the doctrine that anabolic-androgenic steroids can improve muscular performance if certain criteria are met, but some of the health risks associated with their use may be irreversible, and life-threatening. Furthermore, polydrug abuse, restrictive diets, and dehydrating practices may potentiate the health risks associated with weight training and steroid use. Recent investigations of nutritional and training alternatives to anabolic-androgenic steroids are promising. To help lure athletes from drug abuse, the pursuit of new areas of research and education should be priorities in the campaign against the abuse of anabolic steroids.