Unlocking the Potential of Anabolic Supplements: Understanding Water Retention and Hypertension

When it comes to the world of anabolic supplements, enthusiasts are well aware of the tremendous benefits they can offer. However, alongside these advantages, there have been concerns about potential side effects, particularly water retention and hypertension (high blood pressure). It's crucial to address these concerns in a balanced and informative manner, especially for those exploring the world of supplements and steroids through a webshop.

Traditionally, water retention and high blood pressure have been linked to androgenic hormones' impact on sodium and water retention through interactions with kidney androgen receptors. Additionally, anabolic steroids that can convert to estrogenic metabolites have been associated with increased sodium retention via interactions with renal estrogen receptors. This interplay between androgens and estrogens has often been considered the main cause of water retention associated with anabolic steroid use.

However, an intriguing theory has emerged, challenging conventional wisdom. Recent research suggests the existence of a previously overlooked explanation for excessive water retention in some individuals using steroids. This theory revolves around a specific enzyme primarily found in the kidneys, known for its role in protecting the kidneys from circulating cortisol.

In the kidneys, mineralocorticoid receptors (MRs) play a crucial role in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance. These receptors are designed to bind to adrenal hormones called mineralocorticoids, such as aldosterone, which triggers the retention of sodium and water while promoting potassium excretion. It's an essential mechanism to maintain the body's fluid and electrolyte equilibrium.

However, cortisol, a widely circulating hormone with various biological functions, can also activate these receptors, causing unwanted mineralocorticoid-like effects in the kidneys. To prevent this, the kidneys are equipped with an enzyme called 11b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11b-HSD2), which deactivates cortisol by converting it into cortisone before it can bind to renal MRs.

Interestingly, certain substances can inhibit 11b-HSD2, leading to water retention and high blood pressure. One such example is glycyrrhetinic acid, a component of black licorice. This enzyme inhibition potential explains why those who consume a lot of black licorice are known to experience water retention and electrolyte imbalances. Remarkably, historical accounts suggest that Genghis Khan had his armies consume licorice during long marches to prevent thirst and dehydration, albeit without knowledge of the enzyme's involvement.

The study we mentioned earlier sheds light on the fact that many anabolic steroids possess the ability to block this enzyme, some with potency rivaling glycyrrhetinic acid. Notably, fluoxymesterone (halotestin) was found to be as potent as glycyrrhetinic acid in inhibiting 11b-HSD2. This is understandable, as fluoxymesterone shares a similar chemical group (11b-OH) with cortisol and undergoes oxidative metabolism by 11b-HSD2.

The competitive inhibition of 11b-HSD2 by fluoxymesterone raises questions about the relevance of this enzyme inhibition in real-world scenarios. While fluoxymesterone is not typically associated with excess water retention, the doses used are relatively low (usually 20mg or less per day). On the other hand, oxymetholone (anadrol) is well-known for causing water retention, often at high doses (ranging from 50 to 150mg per day). This suggests that the phenomenon may be dose-related. Additionally, there is curiosity surrounding methyl-1-testosterone, known for its extreme water retention and hypertensive effects; however, the study did not investigate this specific steroid.

A fascinating point of interest is that 11-ketofluoxymesterone, a metabolite formed in the kidneys as mentioned earlier, has been found to be a more potent anabolic steroid than fluoxymesterone in animal tests. This raises questions about whether this metabolite retains the enzyme inhibition issues associated with mineralocorticoid disturbances. Perhaps, if the developers of fluoxymesterone had explored oxidizing the 11b-OH group, they might have produced a healthier and more effective steroid.

In conclusion, the world of anabolic supplements and steroids is a complex one, filled with both benefits and potential side effects. Understanding the mechanisms behind these effects, including water retention and hypertension, is essential for individuals considering the use of such supplements. While enzyme inhibition is an intriguing aspect to consider, further research is needed to fully understand its implications in practical scenarios. As you explore the world of supplements through our webshop, we encourage you to make informed decisions and prioritize your health and well-being above all else.