Muscle Chemistry Archive
Meal Planning For Hardgainers
Here is plan for meal planning if you are a hardgainer.
Imagine how dumb it would be if people who struggle with weight loss called themselves hardlosers. That would be ridiculous and you would be just tell them there’s no such thing. They just eat too much food.
Well, that’s how ridiculous the term hardgainer is as well. It comes down to you not eating enough. I don’t care how much you swear you eat, if you don’t gain weight, you are simply not eating enough consistently.
It has nothing to do with your genetics. If you put more money in your bank account than you take out, your bank account will grow. If you put more food in your body than it can burn off, it will be forced to grow as well.
So when hardgainers struggle with eating enough, it’s because they’re not intentional enough. You’ve been trying to eat more your whole life and that’s not working. You have to get specific and plan out your meals. Get structured and get consistent, so the scale can finally tick up. You don’t want to go another year being a grown man at 130 pounds, so here’s how you meal plan for so called hardgainers.
Figure Out Your Surplus
First, you should figure out your surplus. This isn’t necessary, but is extremely helpful especially if you want to gain weight at a consistently healthy rate. When it comes to gaining, you gain both muscle and fat. If you gain too fast, you accumulate too much unnecessary body fat, so it’ better to be relatively precise.
You want a surplus of no more than 500 calories. Take your bodyweight and multiply by 15-20 The more active you are, the higher on that range you should aim for. Same goes for people who swear they eat like a food addict yet can’t gain weight.
So let’s say a self-proclaimed hardgainer weighs 135 pounds and is highly active. He would multiply 140 by 20. That gives him 2800 calories to aim for daily. You can subtract and add 100 to give yourself a flexible range to aim for. So in this case, he would aim for 2700-2900 calories daily.
If you don’t gain weight within 2 weeks, boost your calories by 200.
Figure Out Your Protein
Protein is by far the most important nutrient for building muscle. It literally turns on the signal to construct muscle while providing the building blocks needed to construct said muscle. You need enough to repair damage, maintain good health, and optimize hormones as well. Research finds this to be around 0.8-1 gram per pound of bodyweight as a safe range for all related benefits.
Once you figure out your protein, treat that as a minimum. I like to have hardgaining clients aim for 0.8 grams per pound of bodyweight per day. This gives them a minimum to target for that gives them maximum muscle growth, but it’s not so high that it limits their appetite because protein can be quite filling, not to mention expensive. If your protein limits your appetite, you can start utilizing more shakes instead of whole food.
But this brings me to my next point which is how to specifically construct your meals.
How Many Meals?
Research finds 3-4 meals per day can maximize the muscle building response assuming each meal has a decent dose of protein. This is what I generally recommend for hardgainers anyways. Higher meal frequencies are better to make eating more daily food feasible. Getting tons of calories within 2 meals is too difficult.
So if you’re skipping meals or practicing low meal frequency approaches like intermittent fasting, you’re not optimizing your eating structure to pack on mass.
3-4 meals is best. Aim for more if you prefer to, but that is usually too impractical as well.
Divide Up Your Nutrients
Calories drive weight gain and protein drives muscle growth. These will be your bread and butter as far as what to focus on each meal. Once you figure out your meal and snack structure, divide up your nutrients accordingly per meal.
This doesn’t have to be perfectly distributed, but keeping it relatively even is good for both muscle growth and more importantly simplicity sakes. In addition, if you struggle with your appetite, I would also put a meal or protein rich snack like a shake after your workout.
This will help muscle building efforts, but more importantly, it’s simply practical to help you get all your fuel down your throat. It’s also easier to consume some food in this window without it impacting your overall appetite much.
So for example, somebody aiming to eat 3000 calories per day would have something similar to the following:
Breakfast: 100 grams oatmeal, 1 serving of protein powder, a spoon of honey, mixed berries. (About 650 calories)
Lunch: 2 boneless skinless chicken thighs, 2 cups of cooked rice, spinach, bbq sauce, cooking oil. (about 900 calories)
Post workout: 1 serving of protein powder (about 150 calories)
Dinner: 5 scrambled eggs w/ veggies and olive oil, a banana, and half a pint of ice cream (about 1200 calories)
The above is just an example. You don’t have to copy that and it doesn’t have to be perfectly tracked, but it does need to be consistent and intentional.
As far as food volume, I don’t think the sample I’ve laid out above is unreasonable. Any grown man should be able to eat the above daily. Your manhood is honestly questioned if you think that’s too much food.
That being said, here’s how you adjust your meal plan in case your appetite is weak.
Adjusting Your Meal Plan For Hardgainers
The first step is to stay consistent with your meals. This means eating relatively the same foods and having set meal times. You can totally change things up, but continue to keep a strong account of everything.
This makes adjusting easier once you run into issues. With hardgainers, they often don’t realize they’ve been eating like little girls despite their memories swearing they’re eating phenoms. What you eat once in a while as a highlight is differently than your consistent ability to pound food.
So if you’re struggling, your first option is to simply keep going. Your appetite will adjust as the body is an excellent adaptation machine. It may seem daunting, but you can totally buckle down and push through until it feels more effortless.
Or you can also adjust your meal plan. You can swap out more filling food like fibrous starch, some protein, and fruit for less filling foods. Liquid calories are excellent replacements here. For example, you can simply turn one meal into a giant shake. Milk, smoothies, juices, and mass gainer shakes will be your best friend. Don’t overthink it.
There really is no excuse because there’s no limit. You don’t have to limit yourself to the typical clean foods. I encourage you to include a good base of whole nutritious foods, so you don’t become deficient in micronutrients, but beyond a relatively solid base, getting consistently sufficient calories down your throat is the priority if I haven’t already made that clear.
The second priority is getting sufficient protein, but this should be easy so long as each feeding starts with a protein source.
Get Consistent With It
We make fun of people who struggle to lose weight lacking consistency, but hardgainers often lack consistency too. They fail to face the reality that they don’t plan well, aren’t intentional enough, and struggle to eat more than High Schoolers.
This can all be solved by sitting down undistracted and planning out your week’s worth of meal. Go grocery shopping for what you need, prep what you can ahead of time, and set exact meal times, so you don’t skip calories.
If you do this consistently and adjust your calories when plateaus happen, there’s no reason you shouldn’t gain weight. The scale will trend up if you pound food consistently day in and day out.
The Best Workout Supplements For Teens To Boost Health & Training
These are effective and worth it for teen athletes.
We all know the value of supplements and what they can do for our training, performance, health, and wellness, but when it comes to teenage athletes, the best workout supplements for teens may be hard to find. Some of those supplements adults take without thinking can actually have adverse effects on teens, examples being pre-workouts, fat burners, and testosterone boosters. And while teens may be at the age of starting to drink coffee, pumping themselves full of caffeine, for example, just isn’t worth it.
So, where does that leave teen athletes? This is a perfect time to teach them about proper training and how to structure a well-thought out nutrition plan. By giving them these worthwhile tools now, you can better help them with healthier habits for longer into their fitness careers. But their gains should matter just as much as ours and having the right supplements backing you can make all the difference.
Let’s take a look at the best supplements for teens to give you highly effective products that will boost all areas of your health and training. With great ingredients, cutting-edge formulas, and amazing results, teen athletes can put together a great supplementation routine to boost all areas of their gains and see results safely.
Best Supplements For Teens
While you may be familiar with almost all on this list below, you will notice some essentials missing. Those being essentials for adults, teens don’t need to worry so much about fat burners and pre-workouts, among others. Setting teens up with a set list of appropriate and worthwhile supplements can still work wonders so they see those results they want most.
Protein Powder
A protein powder is one of those supplements perfect for providing you with quality protein to aid in a number of benefits. Coming in dairy forms, like whey isolate and whey concentrate, as well as plant-based proteins, made from things like brown rice and pea protein, the options for you to find the right supplement to suit your lifestyle and diet are possible.
What a good protein powder will do is work to boost muscle growth, since protein is the building block of all muscle, enhance recovery, and aid in things like weight loss through satiety (1). With great flavors and a supplement loaded with protein, this is safe and works well post-workout.
Multivitamin
Taking a multivitamin is an easy and convenient way to get all those important vitamins and minerals into your body that may be missed from whole foods. While we of course structure out meals to get the most benefits and proper nutrients, sometimes we just miss. But multivitamins can help with muscle maintenance, promote a healthy diet, increase energy and cognitive function, as well as boost your overall health and wellness (2).
For a great multivitamin, check out this supplement from Enhanced for an awesome product.
Enhanced Super Human Immunity is a 3-in-1 formula designed to maximize immunity and defeat sickness. Great ingredients include vitamins, minerals, botanicals, probiotics, and digestive enzymes.
BCAAs
BCAAs are an interesting supplement for this is a great way to change up your intra-workout routine and enjoy a tasty beverage while loading yourself with worthwhile benefits. BCAAs can work to increase muscle growth, reduce fatigue, decrease muscle soreness, and prevent muscle wasting, while also helping to burst right through fatigue (3). A way for teen athletes to change up their mid-workout routine, what these will really do is give you some energy when you start to fade while also kickstarting muscle protein synthesis for only the best results when it comes to growth.
Creatine
Creatine is a widely researched and studied supplement and will work in a number of ways to improve your overall strength and size to help with sculpting a physique and improving performance. This is a very popular supplement and is a staple in most athletes’ routines. For teens, following the right instructions and making sure you dose it properly can lead to seeing effective gains.
What you’ll find with a creatine supplement is an increase in strength, improved metabolism, better athletic performance, and assistance with mental capacity, all helping towards your goal of progressing farther with your fitness (4).
Fish Oil
Fish oil is a kind of omega-3 fatty acid with a host of benefits to your physical and mental health. Omega-3’s can be found in a few sources but fish oil is the most popular. What you’ll find with omega-3’s is that this will work to promote eye and cognitive health, fight inflammation, enhance heart health, increase bone and joint health, and boost immunity, all to give you a well-rounded health and wellness supplement you can rely on (5).
Why These Supplements Matter For Teens?
Teens deserve to see great gains as well and working with safe and effective supplements is an easy way to help boost your already well-thought out training and nutrition routines. By starting teens out with the right products and the right ideas around supplementation, you better set them up for their future when it comes to fitness and may excite them to want to learn more. After all, what we put in our bodies matters and we should do the proper research to make sure we understand what we’re taking. For teens, the right supplements can start them on a worthwhile path to gains and this list above is a great starting point to pull from.
Wrap Up
The best workout supplements for teens may seem like a challenge, and with so many options out there, the choice can be daunting. But knowing exactly what teens should take, and what they shouldn’t, can help make that decision a little bit easier. With the right approach and guidance, teens can find a quality supplementation routine in order to see the best gains come to life. Plus, they can do so safely and effectively to not jeopardize their health but fully optimize their gains.
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*Images courtesy of Envato
References
Cintineo, H.; et al. (2018). “Effects of Protein Supplementation on Performance and Recovery in Resistance and Endurance Training”. (source)
Harvard Medical School (2019). “Do multivitamins make you healthier?”. (source)
Blomstrand, E.; et al. (2006). “Branched-chain amino acids activate key enzymes in protein synthesis after physical exercise”. (source)
Kreider, R. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Magalhaes, J.; et al. (2016). “Fish oil supplements, longevity and aging”. (source)
Winstrol for Women: Will It Turn You Into a Man?
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Men can use many different steroids, without the fear of turning into a woman. Gynecomastia may become an issue with some compounds; however, men can continue looking and sounding like a man.
However, the same cannot be said for women who use steroids.
Many females are limited in regards to which compounds they can use, as many AAS cause masculine side effects; compromising a woman’s natural beauty.
Consequently, some women have asked whether Winstrol is a suitable steroid, or whether it will cause virilization side effects. Read on to find out everything you need to know, regarding Winstrol for women.
What Is Winstrol?
Winstrol, otherwise known as Stanozolol, is an oral steroid originally designed for medicinal purposes; helping to treat osteoporosis, breast cancer and post-trauma patients in a severely catabolic state.
When athletes and bodybuilders heard about Winstrol’s ability to increase muscle mass they also used it to improve muscular strength/power in sports — as well as enhancing body composition.
Why Do Women Use Winstrol?
Winstrol is a very effective steroid for women in regards to gains. Females will build a significant amount of muscle and strength on Stanozolol, whilst also burning considerable amounts of fat.
Winstrol is certainly not the best steroid for building muscle, which is why it’s not classed as a bulking steroid; however, its effects certainly aren’t mild.
Winstrol is one of the best steroids women (or men) can take for transforming their bodies in a short space of time. This is because of its muscle-building and fat-burning effects, which take place simultaneously.
In contrast, many other steroids are either effective for building muscle OR burning fat — but not both.
Women who are competing in a bikini or bodybuilding competition may take Winstrol and often are instructed to by their coaches. Alternatively, any females who simply want to lose some stubborn fat, whilst increasing muscle tone may use it to enhance their physique.
Legal Winstrol Alternative
Winsol is our #1 rated legal Winstrol product. It replicates the fat-burning and muscle-building effects of Winstrol, but without any unwanted side effects.
It is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
Winsol is best suited for women wanting to reduce their body fat percentage, whilst simultaneously increasing muscle tone and building lean muscle.
Is Winstrol Safe For Women to Take?
Winstrol isn’t ‘safe‘ for men or women to take, being a toxic anabolic steroid, which poses many side effects. This is why it’s classed as an illegal substance.
The two main side effects associated with Winstrol are associated with its strain on the heart and liver.
However, if Winstrol is used in moderate to low doses, in short cycles, the risk of developing long-term side effects is greatly reduced (compared to those who abuse this steroid).
However, most women want to know: “Will Winstrol make me look like a man?“.
The answer is usually yes — or at least it is a strong possibility.
Many women who take Winstrol will experience virilization side effects such as:
Deepened voice
Hair growth (on the body)
Enlarged clitoris
Smaller breasts
Hair loss (on the scalp)
There are three main reasons why Winstrol is prone to causing virilization in women. This is due to Winstrol:
Not converting into estrogen
Having a low binding affinity with SHBG
Steroids that do not aromatize and convert into estrogen are more likely to produce a masculine appearance in females. This is due to high exogenous testosterone levels, combined with low estrogen; causing an excessive imbalance and dominance in male hormones.
The second reason why women can start to look like men on Winstrol is that it has a low affinity when binding to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). SHBG works to lower free testosterone levels, thus free testosterone levels will spike significantly on Winstrol.
The higher free testosterone levels rise, the more likely virilization symptoms will occur in women.
Can Women Take Winstrol (Without Turning Into a Man)?
Winstrol is not a steroid that requires large doses to produce great results in women, because it’s a powerful steroid (and women naturally only have small amounts of testosterone).
Thus, very low doses of Winstrol may be safely taken by women, without them developing any masculine characteristics. In this case, no more than 5mg per day should be taken.
In contrast, female bodybuilders can take as much as 15 or 20mg of Winstrol per day to help dry out their body for competition; helping them get extra shredded.
15-20mg doses are almost certainly going to make females look and sound more like a man. 10mg doses are also likely to cause a similar outcome but over a longer period of time.
Winstrol Cycle For Women
If a female is intent on cycling Winstrol, the protocol below is likely to produce significant gains without causing masculinization.
This cycle is a conservative one, with a low dose of 5mg per day. This is likely to keep virilization side effects at bay, whilst still producing lean muscle gains in women, due to the length of the cycle and the power of the steroid.
2 x 2.5mg tablets should be taken per day. Winstrol pills usually come in 5mg tablets, thus users may use a pill cutter to split each pill in half.
Users should also avoid taking Winstrol tablets with food, as dietary fat can reduce the biological availability of the compound, decreasing gains.
Better Options For Women
Is Winstrol the best steroid for women?
No — for many women, it isn’t suitable or optimal.
Some females deem it unsuitable because its side effects are harsh and there’s too much risk of it de-feminizing them.
However, there are exceptions to every rule and Winstrol may be an effective choice for the hardcore female bodybuilder that doesn’t mind trading her femininity for a bodybuilding trophy.
More suitable steroids for women are Anavar, Turinabol or Primobolan.
These steroids have very low virilization rates, thus moderate doses can be taken, without noticing much in the way of side effects. Liver toxicity, cholesterol issues and post-cycle crashes are less likely to occur on Anavar, Tbol or Primo, because they are more mild compounds.
The only downside to Anavar and Primobolan is that they are very expensive compounds, especially when buying pharmaceutical grade.
Turinabol however is a more affordable oral, producing significant lean muscle gains, whilst enhancing fat burning.
Women often avoid virilization effects when taking 5mg/day of turinabol in 5-week cycles.
Tbol’s anabolic (muscle-building) effects however are more pronounced than its fat-burning properties, thus a powerful fat burner may be taken alongside it, such as Clenbuterol.
Clenbuterol cycles typically last for 30 days, starting at 20mcg/day, with the dose increasing by 10mcg every 3 days until reaching a final dose of 110mcg.
Turinabol’s side effects are often mild, with only modest fluctuations in cholesterol, liver enzymes and endogenous testosterone levels.
Clenbuterol’s main adverse effect is the risk of hypertension, with it dramatically speeding up heart rate and inducing cardiac hypertrophy (enlargement).
Legal Steroid Alternatives That Work
“There is evidence, if you could use these (steroid alternatives) they would be much better than using anabolic steroids”.
Several of the herbs and amino acids, mentioned by Dr. Thomas O’Connor, are present in Crazy Bulk’s legal steroid alternatives.
CB’s products are backed with clinical research and are safe for women to use. You can view their product range (and receive 20% off) by clicking the link below.
Winstrol FAQs
How Fast Does Winstrol Work?
Winstrol has a half-life of 9 hours, thus it kicks in fast and gains can usually be noticed within the first week. Women taking a small dose of 5mg per day will notice the fat loss and enhanced muscle gains in the first 10 days — with a big increase in energy and motivation in the first 3 days.
However, Winstrol can take a few weeks to leave the body, thus gains and side effects may continue even after a person has stopped using it.
Thus, users who have drug tests in the future will want to have stopped using Winstrol for at least a couple of months in order to not get flagged in a test. The detection time for Winstrol is unknown, thus users should leave ample time for metabolites to fully leave the body.
Generally, the only authorities that will test for anabolic steroids, such as Winstrol, are sports bodies and bodybuilding federations. The army and police drug tests are usually looking for recreational drugs, with steroids needing a more advanced and specific test.
Do Women Need to Take a PCT After Using Winstrol?
A post-cycle therapy isn’t just applicable for men — but also to women. Females utilizing an effective PCT can expect the following:
To maintain gains post-cycle
To restore natural hormone production
To prevent ‘crashing’
Depending on the steroid used, a PCT is either optional or essential. For example, a woman taking Anavar or Primobolan may not feel much of a crash post-cycle and thus choose not to run a PCT.
If women do use Winstrol, they are almost certainly going to experience decreased well-being and low energy levels post-cycle. This is due to a significant reduction in their natural testosterone production. Many people associate testosterone production as an important hormone in men, but it’s also essential in women for well-being, libido and motivation. A substantial decline in testosterone can result in a crash, leading to depression.
In medicine, doctors use DHEA to increase endogenous testosterone levels in women. Thus, the same protocol can be used to help women recover post-cycle, taking 25-50mg per day for 4 weeks.
25mg may be taken at the beginning of a PCT, then increasing the dose gradually (in 5mg increments).
Does Winstrol Cause Hair Loss in Women?
Hair loss is a common side effect among women who take Winstrol, which is due to an increase in DHT levels — a hormone destructive to hair follicles.
A DHT blocker may be taken to combat this, however many medications decrease overall DHT levels in the body, rather than attacking DHT specifically in the scalp. Thus, lowered DHT levels may negatively affect muscle and strength gains; whilst inhibiting fat loss.
Hair thinning, recession or loss may be reversed post-cycle when DHT levels drop back to normal levels. However, if regular steroid cycles are being run by females, this effect may become permanent.
Anavar and Primobolan are better options for women looking to remain unscathed in regards to hair loss during a cycle. Winsol also will not cause any hair thinning/loss in women.
How Much Weight Will Women Lose on Winstrol?
A better question is: how much fat will women lose on Winstrol?
Fat loss is a better measurement than weight loss, because women may not lose any weight on Winstrol. This is because they’ll simultaneously be building muscle, causing no change on the scales.
However, fat loss is quite dramatic on Winstrol and thus the best way to track this is by measuring the waist or by taking comparison photos in the mirror.
Generally, when combined with a calorie deficit diet, users can lose 3lbs per week on Winstrol. Performing regular cardio in conjunction with lifting weights will also help to enhance fat loss (and lower blood pressure).
If a woman eats maintenance calories (or in a surplus) for bulking purposes, fat loss will naturally be less. Thus it’s advised to eat in a calorie deficit of -500.
How Much Muscle Will Women Gain on Winstrol?
A first Winstrol cycle can add 10+lbs of lean muscle in women.
This is a significant gain for a steroid that’s not strictly used for bulking (and also accelerates fat loss).
Similar to measuring fat loss on Winstrol, it would be best to take pictures, rather than standing on the scales to track muscle gains. Women may also choose to measure a muscle, such as their arms to see if they’re getting bigger; however fat loss may also affect such measurements.
Another good sign that someone is packing on significant amounts of muscle is their clothes feeling tighter than usual.
Strength on compound exercises is likely to increase by at least 20-30lbs on Winstrol.
There are other steroids that are better than Winstrol for boosting strength and gaining muscle, such as Testosterone, Trenbolone and Dianabol. However, these steroids are even more likely to cause virilization side effects.
Winstrol for Women
Winstrol generally isn’t recommended for women because of the high risk of virilization symptoms. However, regardless of Winstrol’s masculinization effects, it’s still very toxic and a potentially dangerous steroid.
Winstrol will elevate blood pressure to high levels, whilst causing unnecessary strain on the liver; compared to other steroids such as Anavar or Primobolan. Some of these side effects can also prolong for several weeks post-cycle, and thus will not diminish immediately post-cycle.
However, females may be able to make gains, whilst avoiding any side effects on Winstrol (if taking a low dose of 5mg or below).
Dianabol Cycle – How to Maximize Gains & FAQ’s
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
A Dianabol cycle is one of the most popular protocols in bodybuilding, ideal for those looking to pack on muscle.
Dianabol (Methandrostenolone) has established itself as the most popular bulking steroid in the world — the result of being a favourite compound in the golden era — where certain ‘Austrian’ bodybuilders would cycle it in the offseason.
Dianabol was first created in 1955 by Dr. John Ziegler to help the American Olympic team defeat the Soviets. Although the Americans didn’t quite get the upper hand on their Russian archenemies — Dr. Ziegler did create a steroid that would change athletics and bodybuilding forever.
Dbol is so popular now that various people down your local bodybuilding gym are probably taking it; or at least have experimented with it before.
When it comes to building significant amounts of muscle and strength, few steroids can rival Dianabol (possibly with the exception of Anadrol).
Dianabol is an oral steroid, making it a favourite compound among those less excited to administer regular injections.
In this article we’ll reveal the exact doses, cycle length, stacking options and PCT recommendations for Dianabol. This will help to enhance gains, whilst minimizing the harmful effects of Dbol.
Legal Dianabol Alternative
D-Bal is our #1 rated legal Dianabol product. It replicates the muscle-building and strength-enhancing effects of Dianabol, but without the unwanted side effects.
It is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
D-Bal is best suited for men wanting to build significant amounts of muscle; without shutting down their testosterone, straining their liver or elevating blood pressure levels.
Dianabol-Only Cycle
A Dianabol-only cycle is typically run after someone’s already taken Testosterone or Anavar. The latter are milder compounds and better tolerated by novices.
Users wanting exceptional gains during their first cycle may run Dianabol by itself; however, Testosterone is a better choice for beginners looking for big muscle gains. This is because Testosterone won’t strain the liver or increase cholesterol levels as much as Dbol.
First time users of Dianabol are likely to experience significant gains of up to 30lbs in weight gain, combined with huge strength gains (expect 50+lbs on compound lifts).
Dbol-Only Cycle (For Beginners)
This cycle is perfect for first-time steroid users who are eager to experience rapid muscle gains but don’t want to inject (thus opting for Dbol over Testosterone).
These are very conservative dosages to minimize side effects, however as Dbol is a powerful steroid — beginners can still pack on plenty of size.
Dbol-Only Cycle (For Intermediates)
This is the perfect follow-up cycle to the beginner protocol i.e. ideal for bodybuilders who’ve already taken Dianabol before.
In this cycle slightly higher dosages are utilized. Consequently, muscle and strength gains will be greater, whilst side effects will also be more pronounced.
After these two first cycles, if well tolerated, users may start with 30mg per day to continue making gains.
Advanced users who’ve taken Dianabol and other powerful steroids, may opt for higher dosages (going up to 50mg/day), whilst increasing the cycle length to 8 weeks. Such cycles are performed by bodybuilders looking to pack on as much mass as possible — no matter what the cost.
Liver Support
TUDCA – 500mg/day
Due to Dianabol being a c-17 alpha-alkylated steroid and thus is metabolized by the liver; it causes significant strain on the organ. In most users this isn’t dangerous, considering the liver’s exceptional self-healing properties. Thus, most users will notice liver enzymes regulating back to normal levels post-cycle, even without taking a liver support supplement.
However, some bodybuilders are wary about Dianabol’s hepatotoxic effects and try to reduce as much short-term damage as possible.
TUDCA is a liver support supplement used by bodybuilders to minimize liver strain when taking Dianabol.
TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic acid) is a natural bile salt that aids liver function by improving bile flow. Natural TUDCA present in the liver exists only in small quantities, hence the need for additional supplementation.
In research, patients who took 500mg of TUDCA per day for 3 months experienced a 44% and 49% reduction in AST/ALT enzymes (which are markers of liver stress).
Milk thistle is another liver support supplement used by bodybuilders. Milk thistle is a plant that contains silymarin, a potent antioxidant that reduces free radicals in the body, whilst detoxifying the liver.
Although milk thistle has demonstrated hepatoprotective effects in rats, more research is needed to establish similar success in humans. Thus, TUDCA should be regarded as a superior supplement, with milk thistle being a back up (or an additional option).
PCT
HCG – 2000 IU administered every other day for 20 days
Dianabol will cause low endogenous testosterone levels. This is due to the presence of exceptionally high levels of exogenous testosterone, and thus the testes will signal to cease natural production.
Consequently, when a person stops taking Dianabol their testosterone levels will shut down. This can result in low immunity, energy, libido, mood and sexual performance. Also low testosterone levels create a more catabolic environment, meaning you may retain less of the gains made from your cycle.
An effective PCT can help to alleviate these issues and speed up the recovery of your natural testosterone production.
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a hormone medication prescribed by doctors to treat hypogonadism — helping to restore a male’s testosterone levels and sperm count; whilst reducing the risk of infertility.
A PCT should begin when Dianabol has fully left the body. You can work this out by taking Dianabol’s maximum half-life (6) and multiplying this by 5.5.
Thus, a PCT for dianabol should begin 33 hours after the last dose.
Estrogen Control
Nolvadex — 10-30mg/day
Or
Clomid — 50-100mg/day
Dianabol is a ‘wet’ steroid, meaning it can cause water retention and bloating. Thus, many bodybuilders will choose to cycle it in the off-season, where they can hide under a t-shirt; instead of having their torso exposed on the beach.
Dianabol causes fluid retention due to aromatization (the conversion of testosterone into estrogen). Another side effect of high estrogen levels is gynecomastia i.e. the accumulation of breast tissue, otherwise known as man boobs.
To prevent the risk of gyno, bodybuilders will typically take an aromatase-inhibitor or a SERM (selective estrogen receptor modulator).
An aromatase-inhibitor works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into estrogen, thus reducing estrogenic side effects. However, aromatase-inhibitors can increase cholesterol levels and blood pressure; and thus aren’t optimal to take during a cycle, where blood pressure levels are (likely to be) already high.
SERMs work by blocking estrogen levels directly in the breast tissue — rather than blocking the conversion of testosterone into estrogen. This way estrogen levels won’t plummet, keeping a healthier cholesterol score; whilst significantly reducing the risk of gynecomastia. Thus, Tamoxifen (Nolvadex) or Clomiphene (Clomid) can be used to combat this side effect — without worsening cholesterol scores.
Blood Pressure Control
Fish oil – 3g/day
Those taking Dianabol can expect a rise in LDL cholesterol, a reduction in HDL cholesterol and significant water retention. These three factors combined will spike blood pressure.
Research has shown that 3g of omega-3 fatty acids, taken each day for 8 weeks, can significantly reduce blood pressure (compared to a placebo group).
However, fish oil shouldn’t be taken by individuals prone to low blood pressure; as it can worsen this condition.
Dianabol and Deca Durabolin Cycle
This was thought to be Arnold’s trademark cycle, producing huge mass gains; enabling him to dominant the Mr. Olympia stage. Since the 1970’s, countless bodybuilders have replicated this cycle, due to the Austrian Oak sculpting possibly the greatest physique in bodybuilding history.
Dianabol is the perfect steroid to compliment Dianabol, being a relatively mild injectable that doesn’t pose any additional liver toxicity.
The addition of Deca Durabolin will increase strength and size gains even further, at the expense of lower testosterone levels post-cycle, additional water retention and increased risk of gynecomastia.
This cycle is one of the best for keeping your hair intact, with Dianabol and Deca producing only mild androgenic effects (thus DHT levels will not rise excessively).
Dianabol & Deca Cycle (For Intermediates)
This cycle is structured for someone who has taken steroids before, including Dianabol — and tolerates it well. The inclusion of Deca will not make side effects dramatically worse; however, a more aggressive PCT may be needed in order to restore sexual function and testosterone levels.
Prolactin Control
Dostinex — 0.5-1mg per week
‘Deca dick’ may be an issue during this cycle. This is referring to impotence that can occur in the early stages of a Deca cycle. This is due to Deca Durabolin significantly increasing prolactin — a protein hormone.
Unfortunately, high levels of prolactin in the bloodstream (hyperprolactinemia) can cause erectile dysfunction, low libido and gynecomastia.
To combat these adverse side effects in a Dbol and Deca cycle, users may want to supplement with Dostinex (Cabergoline), a dopamine agonist medication used in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia. A doctor may prescribe Dostinex to you if he sees that your prolactin levels are high; however, bodybuilders will typically buy this via the black market before their prolactin levels rise (and take it from the beginning of their Deca cycle).
Doctors will typically prescribe Dostinex with dosage instructions of 2 x 0.25-0.5mg per week. This should be taken for the whole 10 weeks on Deca.
Estrogen Control
Nolvadex — 10-30mg/day
Liver Support
TUDCA – 500mg/day
Blood Pressure Control
Fish oil – 3g/day
PCT
hCG – 2000 IU administered every other day for 20 days
Clomid (Clomiphene) – 2 x 50mg for 30 days
A more aggressive PCT is adopted here, compared to the Dianabol-only cycle.
Dianabol and Testosterone Cycle
Note: This cycle is not for beginners.
Dianabol and Testosterone are similar compounds, with Dr. Ziegler being given the task of developing a new, superior steroid to Testosterone; so the American Olympic team could defeat the USSR (who were known to be taking Testosterone).
Dr Ziegler created Dbol, a compound more anabolic than Testosterone — and less androgenic. Thus, prostate issues were less of a concern, as well as hair loss and acne on Dbol.
Dianabol also proved more potent for building muscle, due to its higher anabolic rating.
However, Testosterone remains as a very powerful muscle-builder, adding almost equal amounts of lean muscle and strength as Dianabol. Thus, when these two steroids are stacked together, users can expect to build incredible amounts of size.
The addition of Testosterone will exacerbate low testosterone levels post-cycle, whilst increasing the risk of gynecomastia and water retention.
Thus, estrogen control and an aggressive PCT is essential post cycle, to ensure an optimal hormonal profile.
Blood pressure is also likely to rise significantly on this cycle, due to a large spike in LDL cholesterol levels. To combat this it is a good idea to limit sodium in your diet, whilst performing regular cardio (for optimal blood flow). Also fish oil supplementation is recommended (as usual).
Any ester of Testosterone can be used; however, the two most popular forms of Test are Cypionate and Enanthate. This is because these two esters are relatively cheap and do not require overly frequent injections.
Additional Supplements:
TUDCA – 500mg/day (liver)
Fish oil – 3g/day (blood pressure)
Nolvadex — 30mg/day (estrogen control)
HCG – 2000 IU administered every other day for 20 days; and Clomid – 2 x 50mg for 30 days (PCT).
Best Dianabol Stack
This stack is tailored for users wanting to build significant amounts of muscle and raw strength fast; without experiencing any harsh side effects.
The 4 legal steroid alternatives in this stack are:
1. D-Bal (dianabol)
2. Testo-Max (sustanon 250)
3. DecaDuro (deca durabolin)
4. Trenorol (trenbolone)
By combining these 4 compounds together, users can expect bigger and faster muscle growth vs taking D-Bal (dianabol) alone.
Dianabol and Anadrol Cycle
Warning: Only for advanced steroid-users.
Dianabol and Anadrol are two of the most powerful steroids you can take for gaining mass.
Strength gains will be mind-blowing when taking this potent duo.
Anadrol is an oral like Dianabol, thus no injections are needed.
So, what’s the catch?
The side effects are going to leave you feeling like death. Thus, we don’t recommend this cycle from a health standpoint, due to liver values going out of whack and blood pressure likely to reach record-breaking heights.
Unless you are in perfect health, stay away from this cycle.
Additional Supplements:
TUDCA – 500mg/day (liver)
Fish oil – 3g/day (blood pressure)
Nolvadex — 30mg/day (estrogen control)
HCG – 2000 IU administered every other day for 20 days; and clomid – 2 x 50mg for 30 days (PCT).
Summary
Running an effective Dianabol cycle is a science; combine it with the right steroids and you’ll experience incredible muscle/strength gains.
But if you stack it with the wrong steroids or take too high a dose, you may end up with liver damage or an enlarged heart.
The 3 best dianabol cycles are:
Dbol-Only
Dbol/Deca
Dbol/Test
There is no reason to take harsher combinations than this, as the gains may not be worth the side effects. However, everyone responds differently to steroids, so Dianabol may be a harsh compound for one person — but to a bodybuilder 50mg may feel like eating a candy bar.
Please use caution if you are going to utilize the cycles mentioned in this article, taking relevant supplements to protect your heart, liver and long-term testosterone function.
Anavar Cycle: How to Maximize Your Gains & FAQ
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is arguably the most popular steroid in the world, with large numbers of men and women cycling it. Some people love Anavar so much that they blast and cruise it, meaning they run it all year round like TRT (testosterone replacement therapy).
Many steroids are taken solely by men; however, Anavar is the exception — hence its nickname ‘the girl steroid’.
However, this isn’t to say Anavar is only for females, with many strongmen and powerlifters also utilizing this steroid, due to its positive effects on strength.
Anavar’s benefits are well-known — with it having the ability to increase lean muscle mass, whilst decreasing a person’s body fat percentage (at the same time).
Perhaps Anavar’s best trait is that it’s one of the safest steroids you can take.
It does not produce harsh side effects, hence how women and children have taken this steroid with great success in research trials (for medicinal purposes).
This guide is designed to help you run an effective Anavar cycle to maximize results; whilst reducing side effects (whether you’re a male/female, beginner, intermediate; or advanced steroid user).
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1. Anavar-Only Cycle
Taking Anavar by itself is an effective cycle, often used by beginners and intermediates during a cutting phase. An Anavar-only cycle will enhance fat burning, whilst adding some muscle mass when eating lower calories.
Women will typically only run Anavar-only cycles, whereas men who have taken steroids before are more likely to stack it with other compounds later on.
An Anavar-only cycle is one of the best protocols for beginners, because it’s a mild steroid and thus won’t cause dangerous side effects in first time users. Thus, it’s the perfect compound to use when introducing the body to steroids.
Sometimes people who are afraid of taking steroids (because of the toxic side effects), will simply run an Anavar cycle because of its mild nature.
Anavar-Only Cycle (for Beginners)
For Men
This is a typical Anavar-only cycle for beginners. This would be a mild and suitable cycle for a first time steroid-user. The follow-up cycle to this may begin with a dose of 20mg instead of 15mg and may be extended up to 8 weeks.
Typical results from an Anavar-only cycle
For Women
This Anavar cycle is suitable for women who are beginners. It’s very important to be cautious in regards to the dose and cycle length for women, to avoid masculinization effects occurring.
Anavar is one of the best steroids for women, preventing any virilization side effects (such as hair growth, clitoral enlargement and smaller breasts). However, these adverse effects (although uncommon) are still possible on Anavar, when incorrectly utilized.
By following this cautious cycle protocol, the risk for developing these side effects will be extremely low; due to the small dose and short cycle length. Also, virilization happens gradually over a period of time, thus a woman can simply discontinue her cycle if she experiences any of these symptoms.
Typical results from an Anavar-only cycle (female)
2. Anavar and Testosterone Cycle
Note: This cycle is only recommended for men, due to Testosterone causing virilization side effects in women.
If there’s a steroid besides Anavar that’s suitable for beginners to take — it would be Testosterone.
Testosterone is arguably the best steroid you can take, in terms of risk vs reward.
Testosterone will produce large increases in muscle mass and strength, with it being classed as a bulking steroid.
Testosterone does not produce significant strain to the heart, compared to other steroids; and it doesn’t stress the liver (with it being an injectable). These are the two most important attributes in regards to health.
In regards to side effects, testosterone suppression is likely to be more significant when stacking Anavar with testosterone. Also, cholesterol levels are likely to rise slightly higher, compared to taking either one by themselves. Androgenic side effects such as oily skin, acne and hair thinning (on the scalp) are also more likely with this duo.
The different types of injectable testosterone are:
Test suspension
Test cypionate
Test enanthate
Test acetate
Test propionate
Sustanon 250
These different types of Testosterone are all the same steroid, but with different esters, which can dictate how fast it’s absorbed and how long it stays in the body. The most popular forms of Testosterone are enanthate and cypionate, due to the price and ease of injection.
Anavar & Test Beginner Cycle
This cycle may be taken after an Anavar-only cycle.
This cycle will greatly enhance muscle building and strength gains, compared to taking Anavar alone.
These are conservative doses, and thus suitable for someone with little experience using anabolic steroids. However, such a cycle is not optimal for someone who’s never taken steroids before (in this case a stack shouldn’t be used).
Anavar & Test Intermediate Cycle
This is the perfect follow-up cycle, to the first Anavar and test cycle listed.
This cycle is designed for intermediates who’ve already taken Anavar and Testosterone a few times previously.
Taking higher doses than those specified in this cycle greatly increases the risk of side effects, without much more to show in the way of gains.
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Anavar & Andriol (Oral Test) Cycle
Not everyone is a fan of needles, thus below is an oral cycle of Anavar and Testosterone (Andriol).
Andriol is the brand name for oral testosterone, also known as Testosterone Undecanoate. For many, this is a more convenient method of administrating Testosterone compared to injections.
The downside to oral Testosterone is that it’s very expensive compared to injectable Testosterone. When you factor in the price of Anavar, this will make for a very expensive cycle (costing a few hundred dollars plus).
However, for those who want maximum gains (when taking orals), with as little risk as possible — this is it.
Many orals are very toxic on the liver; however, Anavar and Andriol are the exceptions. The kidneys help to metabolize Anavar, placing less stress on the liver; whilst long-term studies have shown Andriol to provide no hepatic strain. A 10-year study of men using Andriol showed no notable increase in ALT and AST readings (markers of hepatotoxicity).
Important: When taking Andriol (Test Undecanoate), make sure you take the tablets with a high-fat snack/meal. Aim for at least 19 grams of fat with each dose. Research has shown that the biological availability of oral testosterone is roughly 50% lower when taken on an empty stomach (1).
3. Anavar and Winstrol Cycle
For Men
This makes for the ultimate cutting cycle, where users can expect rapid fat loss and significant muscle gains.
Anavar and Winstrol have many similarities, with both creating a dry and ripped look. Both are also oral steroids, used for stripping fat when cutting. However, Winstrol is the more powerful of the two; and not suitable for beginners due to its toxicity. Thus, this cycle is only suitable for intermediate or advanced steroid users.
Users can expect Anavar’s mild side effects, plus significant liver strain, testosterone suppression and cardiovascular strain with the addition of Winstrol.
Due to the harshness of Winstrol, this cycle only lasts for 6 weeks; with advanced steroid users often extending this cycle to 8 weeks.
This type of cutting stack may be used by bodybuilders when prepping for a show, aggressively trying to reduce body fat whilst hanging onto hard-earned muscle.
For Women
Winstrol isn’t generally recommended for women, because of its high risk of causing masculinization.
Thus, to reduce the chances of women losing their femininity, a very small dose of Winstrol is listed in the above cycle.
Despite a smaller dose, Winstrol will still produce significant gains due to the sheer power of the steroid.
This cycle is not recommended for female beginners. Instead, it should only be utilized among women who have already undergone several steroid cycles; or at a minimum have taken Anavar before.
The risk of virilization increases when stacking Anavar and Winstrol together, thus it should only be done in certain circumstances i.e. prepping for a competition and the stakes are high. If women are simply trying to get in great shape — Anavar alone is sufficient.
4. Anavar and Clenbuterol Cycle
Clenbuterol is a beta2-antagonist (not a steroid), often used in medicine as an anti-asthma drug.
Clenbuterol is certainly a powerful addition to any cutting cycle, due to its potent effects on metabolism. Clenbuterol has profound effects on the central nervous system, causing the body to produce more adrenaline. Consequently, the body heats up and enters a state of thermogenesis; accelerating fat loss (at rest).
Clenbuterol has also been shown to have potent anabolic effects in animals; however, such effects are debatable in humans. Thus, an Anavar and Clenbuterol cycle will likely produce rapid fat loss, with moderate increases in lean muscle and strength.
Due to the stimulative effects of Clenbuterol, energy levels and motivation are also likely to go through the roof.
Clenbuterol, like Anavar, is available in tablet form.
Considering that clenbuterol is not a steroid, usual side effects such as gynecomastia, liver toxicity, acne, water retention, etc. are not an issue.
The main concern when taking clenbuterol is its effects on the heart, increasing a user’s heart rate significantly. Thus, it’s recommended to keep cycles short and to avoid taking Clen if your cardiovascular health is lacking.
Anavar & Clenbuterol Cycle For Men
As shown below, Clenbuterol is cycled in increments (by increasing the dose slowly every few days, until hitting a maximum dose). This is done for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, a person can gauge their sensitivity to Clen by starting on a low dose and building up slowly. Starting on a high dose too soon, may result in harsh side effects; such as shaking, insomnia and racing heart beat.
Secondly, people generally build up a tolerance to Clenbuterol very quickly; thus such an incremental dosing strategy can help users continue burning fat all the way through their cycle. This sample cycle lasts 4 weeks; no Clenbuterol cycle should extend beyond 6 weeks. After this time, the body’s temperature drops back down to its normal range, signifying a halt in thermogenesis (and thus fat loss).
The Anavar dose (20mg) lasts for 8 weeks. This dose is optimal for someone who’s already taken Anavar (or other steroids before).
Anavar & Clenbuterol Cycle For Women
Clenbuterol is a suitable drug for women, as it doesn’t produce virilization side effects.
Unlike with steroids, a woman’s dose on Clen is typically similar to a man’s. Women produce a fraction of the testosterone a man produces, thus a smaller dose of exogenous testosterone is needed to produce the same effects.
In Clenbuterol’s case, because it doesn’t affect testosterone (but instead the central nervous system), women often take an identical dose to men.
The Anavar dose below reflects a cautious dose for women, that would be suitable for beginners. A higher dose of Anavar may be taken for more experienced users — starting at 10mg per day .
Anavar Cycle FAQ
Do you need to run a PCT?
Anavar is a mild steroid, thus running a PCT (post cycle therapy) isn’t as essential — but optional.
Although testosterone levels will not shut down completely, they will become suppressed and take several weeks to recover back to optimal levels. Thus, by implementing a PCT you can speed up this process.
During this time of recovery, users may feel tired, have a low mood and weakened libido post-cycle. Such after-effects aren’t just related to men — but also women.
This is because steroids also have a powerful effect on women’s hormones, with their endogenous testosterone levels getting sapped. Although women have far less testosterone compared to men, it remains an important hormone in their body chemistry; with various women reporting a mild ‘crash’ post-cycle from Anavar.
An aggressive PCT is not required after an Anavar-only cycle. Men can take Nolvadex (Tamoxifen) or Clomid (Clomiphene), to help recover their testosterone production; which is more than sufficient.
Nolvadex should be dosed at 40mg per day for 45 days, with 2 x 20mg pills taken daily.
Clomid should be dosed at 100mg per day for 30 days, with 2 x 50mg pills taken daily.
Users should start their PCT approximately 57 hours after the last dose of Anavar. Why 57? Because this is the estimated time that Anavar will fully clear out of the body.
You can work out when a steroid leaves the body by the following equation: 5.5 x the half-life.
Anavar’s half-life is 9.4-10.4 hours.
Is a Liver Support Supplement Needed on Anavar?
Anavar does not pose a serious risk to the liver when taken in sensible doses/cycles. Thus, users often take Anavar without a liver support supplement.
However, for those wanting maximum protection, TUDCA may be taken; which has been shown to reduce oxidative stress to the internal organ. Research has shown that TUDCA can significantly lower ALT and AST liver values, which are both signs of liver strain/damage (2).
If Anavar is stacked with other hepatotoxic orals, such as Winstrol, Anadrol or Dianabol — a liver support supplement is essential.
Where Do People Buy Anavar?
Anavar is illegal to use for bodybuilding purposes, due to the Anabolic Steroids Control Act in 1990. Therefore, bodybuilders purchase Anavar via the black market if they want to cycle it.
Buying from the black market in real-life terms means to buy from a person who deals drugs, or a website that claims to sell Anavar.
However, buying from the black market is an illegal practice, and comes with several other disadvantages such as — Anavar being counterfeited, spiked with dangerous substances and under-dosed.
Thus, some bodybuilders are using legal Anavar alternatives, such as Anvarol, which mimics the same fat-burning and anabolic effects in the body as Anavar. However, Anvarol doesn’t cause any side effects, thus you won’t experience any testosterone suppression or raised cholesterol levels like you would with Anavar.
Anvarol is manufactured by Crazy Bulk, is FDA-approved and available to order online without a prescription. Another benefit with Anvarol is that it’s considerably cheaper than Anavar, with the latter being very costly to cycle.
We recommend Anvarol (legal Anavar), ensuring our readers stay within the confines of the law and make gains safely.
Philip Ricardo Jr. Looks to The Future
Philip Ricardo Jr. recognizes he has work to do.
Philip Ricardo Jr., a professional natural bodybuilder, had an outstanding performance in the 2021 Natural Olympia on the second weekend of November 2021. He left with a gold medal in Men’s Bodybuilding Grand Masters, and a bronze medal in Men’s Bodybuilding Open – Paul Krueger came out on top; however, Ricardo Jr. did walkaway with a Harley Davidson after winning the drawing, so he’s likely a happy camper.
Although Ricardo Jr. fell short of the gold medal in the 2021 Natural Olympia, he’s won on multiple occasions. He won back-to-back in 2007 and 2008 and again in 2015 and 2019.
Despite his incredible performances, he recognizes that the competition level has increased substantially since his earlier days in the sport. Here’s what he had to say on social media:
“Despite my placing (Gold in Grandmasters Bodybuilding & Bronze in Men’s Open) and winning the drawing for the Harley Davidson. (Thanks Douglas D Grant and the entire GainsInBulk Team) I recognize that I am definitely not the athlete I was years ago in this sport. The level of competition has increased leaps snd [sic] bounds and I feel fortunate to have done as well as I did. I have work to do if/when I ever compete again for sure.”
You can check out his full post below.
Training for Natural Olympia
Philip Rircardo Jr. put in work to prepare for the 2021 Natural Olympia, and in hopes of being victorious, he entered late into Mr. America 2021. Unfortunately, this competition shortened his preparation for the show. Still, it showed the length he’s willing to go to win – entering late into a competition does put the athlete at risk of being “off-peak” when performing. But, at the same time, it can catapult them into full preparation mode for the upcoming contest.
Below you can catch a video of Philip Ricardo Jr. training for the 2021 Natural Olympia.
How Philip Ricardo Jr. Got Into Bodybuilding
Philip Ricardo Jr. feels like he has a lot of work to do to compete at peak level in natural bodybuilding. Although this veteran has had an inspiring run so far in the past decades he’s been competing.
According to “Muscle and Strength,” Philip Ricardo Jr. got into natural bodybuilding when a co-worker secretly entered Ricardo Jr. into the 1992 Military Friendship Day Iwakuni Japan bodybuilding event. Admittedly, Ricardo Jr. lacked experienced and didn’t know how to pose, wore multicolored speedos, and didn’t shave his hair. Yet, despite being unaware of his admissions into the competition and his novice mistakes, he won that competition. The rest is history.
He’s considered to have one of the best natural physiques on the planet. To the point that his critics call him a “fake natural bodybuilder.” Ricardo Jr. takes the speculative remarks in stride and expresses that he sees them as a compliment in his latest GI exclusive interview.
Aside from competing at the highest level of natural bodybuilding, Philip Ricardo Jr. is a devout Christian, retired U.S. Marine, husband, and father. We can’t say for sure how his future will unfold. But we do know Philip Ricardo Jr. is an established veteran. And he’s earned many accolades in his natural bodybuilding career.
Generation Iron would like to congratulate Philip Ricardo Jr. on his performance at 2021 Natural Olympia and thank him for his service. We wish him the best of luck in what the future holds for him.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more news surrounding natural bodybuilding!
Yangsu Ren Crushes IPF World Record With 370kg Deadlift In Training
Yangsu Ren completes massive deadlift in training.
Yangsu Ren has earned the nickname the “Deadlift Panda” and certainly lived up to it recently. On Monday, Ren shared yet another massive deadlift and this one would have been good enough for a world record.
Ren took to Instagram to show off his recent lift. He completed a 370kg (815.7lb) deadlift using just a lifting belt and deadlift slippers. This raw lift is 7.5kg more than the current IPF raw deadlift world record of 362.5kg (799.1lb).
“Smooth 370kg/816lb deadlift today to test out the @notorious_lift sumo sole gen 2.5 deadlift slippers ? Overall they’re great deadlift shoes that fit all my preferences; minimal flat sole with lateral support. Aside from what I mentioned on Wednesday about them for conventional, my only strike against the new model is the narrower feeling toebox with the redesigned top and sidewall, making my toes feel more cramped compared to the previous gen 2’s. This complaint will probably go away as these break in more and loosen up, but out of the box my favorite is currently still the Gen 2’s. Will provide more feedback as they break in after more sessions ?”
John Haak currently holds the raw deadlift world record in the 83kg division. This was accomplished during the 2019 USPA The Tribute. While Ren’s deadlift is far beyond that of Haak’s world record, it cannot be recognized because it was not completed in a sanctioned event. This means that Ren could have some plans to set a new mark next time he competes.
This is not the first time that Yangsu Ren has tested the waters in this territory. In 2019, Ren completed a 338kg (745lb) and 369.7kg (815lb) lifts just one month apart. He was forced to take some time off that same year to recover from lumbar-induced sciatica. He returned to competition in 2020 and completed 379kg (835lb) deadlift.
Yangsu Ren last competed in 2018 at the USAPL Raw Nationals. He took home a seventh-place finish during this event. He did not compete in 2019 to recover from injury and it looks like he has made significant progress. This is what makes some believe that Ren could put up his biggest numbers once he returns to competition.
It is unknown when that time will be. Yangsu Ren has been sharing his lifts on social media and they are continuing to get bigger and bigger. When he takes on a competition next, it will be a must-watch event.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Best Ways To Reduce Hunger For Better Weight Loss
Kick those cravings and shed fat.
Picture this. You’re sitting at your desk, typing away or potentially chatting with a co-worker. But that rumble in your stomach is to much to bear. You get up and seek out a snack. But what’s in the drawer? Most likely not the food you need to see and continue to see those gains you want most. Cravings are unfortunate but finding the right ways to reduce hunger can only assist with all your desired goals especially when it comes to weight loss.
So, how do we go about this? Well, it takes a well-thought out routine and the proper approach to training and your diet. Typically those cravings come on because you didn’t eat enough, or maybe you didn’t eat the right food to keep you full. Empty calories and those foods we love to eat are sometimes not the best option when it comes to staying full and seeing all of those gains we love most. While we may enjoy them, they aren’t great at reducing hunger, in fact, they may actually just spur this on.
Let’s take a look at the best ways to reduce hunger so you can efficiently burn fat and not worry about unwanted cravings sneaking in. The right approach to training and nutrition can be an easy and effective way to see those results you want most without dealing with the low confidence of a body you don’t want.
Best Ways To Reduce Hunger
Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to reduce hunger to kill any of those unwanted and undesired cravings.
Protein & Fiber
Foods high in protein and fiber are bound to keep you full, while also giving your digestive system some assistance. The right foods working to keep us full are exactly what we need most to see real gains and those whole foods high in protein and fiber will taste great while offering the best nutritional benefits to reduce hunger (1,2).
Proper Hydration & Water Intake
Making sure you are hydrated and drinking enough water is exactly what you need to succeed and will aid in not only your health, but also keep you full. Drinking water throughout the day, but also before meals is an easy way to feel full so you don’t overeat at said meal and take in unwanted calories (3).
Smaller Portions
Eating those massive portions only a couple times in the day can lead to consuming to many calories. Of course, weight loss happens when more calories are burned than taken in so looking to eat smaller meals throughout the day will keep you eating, but in a healthy way, and reducing your desire to snack. Plus, this will keep your metabolism moving efficiently and constantly burning for fuel.
Try To Lower Stress
Stress can kickstart those cravings and we may start to “stress eat”. Maybe you’ve heard of this, but when your body feels stress or anxious, we start to eat to find that comfort. We have busy lives and schedules and working towards ways to be mindful, maybe through yoga, a relaxing stretching routine, or meditating, can help alleviate stress and ultimately lead to less snacking (4).
Work To Burn Fat
Working to burn fat may take time, but that’s okay. Following a diet and working in a great training routine won’t be the cure all solution to losing weight in an instant, but working with this overtime will prove to yield great results. Sleep and optimizing your health are great ways to recharge so you can better tackle those grueling workouts to burn fat and keep you more alert and willing to follow a good diet.
For training, high-intensity interval training and resistance training are great ways to burn fat and change fat to muscle (5). Not only will get you fit and aid in your bodybuilding or sport specific movements, but it will also tone and sculpt your desired physique so you see those gains you want most. As long as you stay moving and work to continue to burn calories, the right diet and strict attention to detail will prove to be the best for all your weight loss goals.
Great Supplements For Reducing Hunger & Burning Fat
An effective way to reduce hunger and see weight loss are with the right supplements. What supplements will do are add to your dietary and nutrition routine so you never lack those vital nutrients. A protein powder is a great supplement for growth and recovery, but also keeping you full. By pumping you with necessary protein, you work to reduce cravings to keep you as full as you can be, and in a healthy way. Also, meal replacements have the ability to fill you up by providing the right balance of macronutrients, along with other nutrients, so if you can’t get a whole food meal in your day, at least you will stay full to limit snacking (6).
For those fat loss goals, two supplements to consider are fat burners and CLA. These will work to kickstart your metabolism and get your body burning calories so you can work on that shredded aesthetic. With stimulant and stimulant-free options, these supplements work into whatever diet or lifestyle you follow and can greatly assist all of your fat loss goals. Plus, these will also work to reduce hunger to limit those unwanted cravings.
Wrap Up
Reducing hunger can be hard. Many of us love to eat. We enjoy food and want to take full advantage of cooking a delicious meal. But throughout the day we may find ourselves snacking and taking in those unwanted calories that we just can’t afford to take in. With these approaches to reducing hunger, you will also capitalize on weight loss to see those goal you want become reality. With an emphasis on proper training and nutrition, you can burn fat and kill any of those unwanted cravings and binges.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
Paddon-Jones, D.; et al. (2008). “Protein, weight management, and satiety”. (source)
Lattimer, J.; et al. (2010). “Effects of Dietary Fiber and Its Components on Metabolic Health”. (source)
Popkin, B.; et al. (2010). “Water, Hydration and Health”. (source)
Yau, Y.; et al. (2014). “Stress and Eating Behaviors”. (source)
Willis, L.; et al. (2012). “Effects of aerobic and/or resistance training on body mass and fat mass in overweight or obese adults”. (source)
Noakes, M.; et al. (2004). “Meal Replacements Are as Effective as Structured Weight-Loss Diets for Treating Obesity in Adults with Features of Metabolic Syndrome”. (source)
5 Best Steroids for Women (That Won’t Turn You Into a Man)
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
When someone mentions the word “steroids“, the average person pictures a 250lb male bodybuilder, resembling Arnold Schwarzenegger.
However, this isn’t the typical profile of a steroid user today.
In fact, increasing numbers of women are taking steroids to build muscle and burn fat.
This doesn’t just apply to female bodybuilders either, with research showing that 1.4% of girls in high school are also taking anabolic steroids (1).
Female steroid use is also rife in sports, with women looking to gain an edge over their rivals; being tempted by improved strength and endurance. Failed drugs tests have haunted female athletes in sports such as boxing, swimming, CrossFit and more.
Steroid Side Effects in Women
The best steroids for women are essentially the compounds that do not produce virilization effects.
Virilization is when masculine features start to form in a female. These typically are:
Increase in body hair
Enlargement of clitoris
Deep voice
Masculine-face
Smaller breasts
Some of these side effects may be reversed post-cycle when hormone levels regulate back to normal. However, a deepened voice may take longer to reverse (2), being several years, due to modifications of the vocal cords and larynx.
These effects are the result of unnaturally high testosterone levels, which can slowly turn a woman into a man. Many elite female bodybuilders are willing to experience such side effects in order to win a competition; however, the general female population wants to avoid these at all costs.
Common masculinization occurs in women when:
a) The wrong steroids are taken
b) High doses are utilized
c) Cycles are too long
In this article, we will discuss the best steroids for women, and ones they should avoid at all costs.
We do not endorse the use of anabolic steroids; however, we understand that many girls/women are using these substances and need correct guidance.
Note: The risk of women experiencing virilization symptoms is largely determined by an individual’s genetics. Some women can take the wrong steroids for long periods of time and be okay. Whereas other women may take small doses of mild compounds, yet still have issues.
However, if a woman stops her steroid cycle as soon as virilization symptoms occur, they will quickly diminish and be reversed. Such symptoms happen slowly over a period of time, thus it isn’t a case of waking up one morning and having grown a beard.
Best Steroids for Women
Anavar
Anavar (Oxandrolone) is nicknamed the ‘girl steroid’ for a reason. Women take it and are often very happy with the results.
Anavar’s popularity is the result of its mild properties, making it tolerable among men and women.
Females often take Anavar and experience no virilization effects. However, there are exceptions to every rule, as some women abuse Anavar, taking high doses for excessive periods of time; which can certainly lead to masculinization.
With moderate doses, Anavar produces significant muscle gains, whilst burning noticeable amounts of fat.
A 5 week Anavar cycle is likely to result in muscle gains of around 5kg, and fat loss also being around 5kg.
Women can successfully take 5-10mg of Anavar daily for 4-6 weeks. Anything above 10mg per day will greatly increase the risk of virilization. High doses (above 10mg) are unnecessary, as some women have even reported good results from taking tiny doses of 2.5mg per day (3).
Anavar Cycle for Women
This is a suitable cutting cycle for women who have never taken Anavar before. Future cycles may start at 10mg and extend to 6 weeks (maximum) if a woman responds well to oxandrolone.
Women may notice a subtle decrease in natural testosterone from taking Anavar, plus some negative shifts in cholesterol; however, such effects are only likely to be subtle.
Anavar Before and After Pictures
This woman took 10mg of Anavar per day for 5 weeks. She did not notice much in regards to side effects, other than more oily skin and a delayed menstrual cycle. These results are typical of a standard Anavar cycle, resulting in a leaner midsection and more muscle tone.
Legal Anavar Alternative
Anvarol is our #1 rated legal Anavar product. It replicates the fat-burning and muscle-building effects of Anavar, but without any unwanted side effects.
It is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
Anvarol is best suited for women that want to reduce their body fat percentage, whilst simultaneously increasing muscle tone and building lean muscle.
Primobolan
Primobolan is the mildest steroid on this list when considering the dose used by women – mg for mg.
It is favorable among women due to its low androgenic rating (44-57), thus causing a low risk of virilization.
Primobolan comes in oral or injectable form (Primobolan depot) and significantly enhances fat loss, due to its strong binding affinity to the androgen receptors; causing increased lipolysis (fat loss).
Women will also experience noticeable lean muscle gains, due to its positive effect on nitrogen retention and protein synthesis.
In men, Primobolan is generally used as a cutting steroid; however, women can also use it as a bulking compound, due to muscle gains being more pronounced in females.
A standard dose for women is 50-75mg per day, taken for 6-8 weeks. This will produce slow and steady muscle gains, whilst simultaneously stripping away fat.
Despite Primobolan being an oral steroid, like Anavar, it does not produce considerable hepatic strain; and thus liver values (marking stress), do not typically rise significantly.
One benefit to injecting Primobolan is that it may have a less negative impact on cholesterol levels. However, blood pressure is very unlikely to skyrocket on Primobolan (although women should constantly monitor it during a cycle).
Primobolan Cycle
If Primobolan is tolerated well during the first 4 weeks, doses of 75mg per day may be utilized for the following 2 weeks. Furthermore, in future cycles, 75mg may be taken; with cycles lasting 8 weeks instead of 6.
Anadrol
Anadrol (Oxymetholone) is an oral steroid and is one of the best bulking compounds on the market. There is a general consensus that Anadrol is not suitable for women, because it produces harsh side effects in men (some of which are androgenic).
However, research and real-life evidence suggest that Anadrol does not produce the same androgenic effects in women.
In fact, it remains as one of the only steroids in studies, where women can take mega doses of it and still not experience virilization. In one study, females were given up to 150mg per day for 30 weeks and none of them demonstrated any masculinization (4).
To put this 150mg dose into perspective, it is 6x the recommended dose of 25mg per day. It is also 3x the dose of a male bodybuilder, who can experience significant results on 50mg per day.
It’s also worth noting that the only side effects reported by the women on 150mg per day, were decreased libido and increased fatigue; undoubtedly being the result of lower endogenous testosterone production.
One theory why Anadrol is so well-tolerated by women is that although it produces large increases in testosterone, it also raises estrogen levels significantly. This testosterone to estrogen balance is seemingly important in avoiding a masculine appearance.
Furthermore, SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin) is a detrimental hormone to women when elevated, due to it freeing up more active testosterone. Anadrol however does not bind effectively to SHBG receptors, and thus levels do not rise significantly.
Bill Roberts (Ph.D.) also shares his experience:
“5mg of Anavar is roughly the equivalent of 25mg of Anadrol for risk of virilization”.
Bill’s expertise and experience (plus other research) suggest that Anadrol may actually be one of the best steroids for women; as 5mg of Anavar is a very small dose.
The misconception of Anadrol cycles being ‘unsuitable for women’, can be attributed to bodybuilding’s lack of practical knowledge regarding steroids’ effects in females. This is due to steroids being less commonly used among women, resulting in less retelling of personal experience in the fitness community.
Anadrol Cycle
Winstrol
Winstrol (Stanozolol) is generally not a good steroid for women. It has a high affinity to bind with SHBG, putting women at risk of virilization symptoms.
However, it is safe to use when taken in very low doses.
Winstrol is a powerful steroid for building muscle in women, thus small doses are still effective.
5mg per day is a safe dose for avoiding virilization. 10mg per day is pushing the limits and anything over 10mg per day is asking for trouble.
If women do use Winstrol, it is recommended to take 2 tablets a day, instead of 1. This will further decrease the risk of side effects, as users won’t be getting a sudden surge of exogenous testosterone in one go, with levels regularly spiking up and down.
By splitting up the doses, users will receive a steady dose that will remain constantly peaked in their bloodstream. Thus, a dose of 2 x 2.5mg per day would be a cautious, yet effective protocol.
On Winstrol, women can expect to get considerably leaner, due to its fat-burning properties; whilst increasing lean muscle mass. This won’t be huge increases in size but instead will produce a lean and strong look.
Winstrol Cycle
The above cycle has a prolonged duration of 8 weeks, which is acceptable given the low dose of Winstrol.
Legal Winstrol Alternative
Winsol is our #1 rated legal Winstrol product. It mimics the muscle-building and fat-burning effects of Winstrol, but without any unwanted side effects (such as virilization).
Like Anvarol, Winsol is FDA-approved and can be purchased online without a prescription.
Winsol is slightly stronger than Anvarol (Anavar) thus women can experience enhanced results, in terms of muscle-building and fat loss.
Сlenbuterol
Clenbuterol technically isn’t a steroid; however, it sometimes is mistakenly referred to as a cutting steroid, because of its powerful fat-burning effects.
It is actually a bronchodilator, used as a medication to treat those suffering from acute asthma, enabling improved oxygen flow throughout the body.
Clenbuterol is not exogenous testosterone and thus is unlikely to cause any significant muscle or strength gains in women. Equally, it won’t shut down women’s natural testosterone production, thus users won’t suffer decreases in libido.
However, there is evidence to suggest that clenbuterol has some anabolic properties, with its ability to increase skeletal muscle in animals (5). Some women claim that Clenbuterol does help them build muscle and increase strength, whereas others notice little (if any improvement).
Clen has a potent effect on the metabolism, due to stimulation of the central nervous system; shifting the body into a state of thermogenesis. This is when the body’s temperature rises, consequently causing the body to cool itself down via increased sweating. Just like with exercise, the heart rate speeds up significantly and a woman’s basal metabolic rate increases. This ‘heating up’ of the body has shown to be a very effective way to burn fat.
However, Clenbuterol should not be abused, with some users having been hospitalized after taking very high doses. One man’s heart rate rose to 254 beats per minute (6), after an accidental 10 fold overdose.
The average heart rate for an adult is 60-100 beats per minute (7), and thus such an elevated heart rate from high doses of Clenbuterol may lead to increased cardiac risk.
Clenbuterol can be taken in oral or syrup form. During a cycle, women will typically start taking 20-40mcg of Clenbuterol a day. Then every 3-4 days users increase their dose by 10-20mcg, for a cycle length of 4-6 weeks. This incremental increase in dosage is done until fat loss peaks, and side effects remain comfortable/tolerable.
Dosages can increase up to 120-160mcg per day; however, women should monitor how they feel and regularly check their blood pressure/heart rate to ensure it doesn’t become excessively elevated.
Clenbuterol’s stimulating effects may not be well tolerated by women sensitive to stimulants. Such people may become increasingly nervous, anxious or experience insomnia.
Clenbuterol is often stacked with cutting steroids for accelerated fat loss.
Clenbuterol Cycle
This is a typical cutting cycle utilized by female bikini models or bodybuilders wanting to burn fat.
Some women gradually lower the dose towards the end of a cycle and taper off; however, this isn’t necessary. It will be more beneficial for the heart to come off as soon as possible than taking lower doses. The only potential benefit of lowering the dose would be to avoid a crash in energy; however, this isn’t commonly reported in Clen-users.
Note: Doses should only continue rising if users are comfortable with the current dose.
Worst Steroids for Women
The worst steroids for women are actually most anabolic steroids. Women are very limited in regards to which steroids they can use (if they want to continue looking like a woman). This is because most steroids are not mild, and exhibit strong androgenic effects.
Therefore, popular compounds such as Testosterone, Dianabol, Trenbolone, etc. are all undesirable steroids for women. They might not produce long-term damaging effects to a woman health-wise, but they are likely to cause virilization, potentially affecting her long-term psychological well-being.
Legal Steroids For Women
Legal steroids are compounds designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids but are safe to take and FDA approved. Legal steroids, or steroid alternatives, are safe for women and pose no risk of virilization side effects.
Crazy Bulk are the leading retailer of legal steroids for women.
Here are their 3 best-selling products:
Anvarol (Anavar)
Clenbutrol (Clenbuterol)
Winsol (Winstrol)
You can also stack all three of these together for maximum fat loss and muscle gains.
Crazy Bulk offers generous deals, enabling women to save money, in comparison to buying expensive steroids like Primobolan and Anavar on the black market (which can cost hundreds of dollars per cycle).
Anvarol Before and After
Anvarol is the legal steroid alternative for Anavar.
Anvarol before and after
Do Women Need to Use a PCT?
If women experience low levels of libido or are suffering from low well-being, a PCT can be implemented.
Some believe that a PCT only applies to men because they have higher testosterone levels, however testosterone still remains a crucial hormone for women’s sexual and psychological function.
When women are cycling mild steroids such as Primobolan or Anavar, they may not experience any negative side effects. In which case they may skip running a PCT.
However, if they are taking more powerful compounds, such as Winstrol (especially in high doses), they may wish to take 25-50mg of DHEA per day, to recover their endogenous testosterone. A 4-week cycle of DHEA should be sufficient to recover testosterone levels; however, cycles can be safely extended beyond this point — with DHEA being used for several months in clinical research (8).
A PCT is not needed when taking legal steroids, or steroid alternatives, as they will not shut down women’s natural testosterone production.
Summary
Anavar and Primobolan are the most common steroids, used by women wanting to avoid virilization. They are very mild, yet still, produce significant results.
The only downside with these two steroids is that they are very expensive on the black market.
Anadrol, according to research, is seemingly very safe for women to take (even in higher doses) and considerably cheaper than Primobolan and Anavar.
Clenbuterol is possibly the best drug for women, who are more concerned with burning fat, than building muscle.
Note: Even when taking mild steroids, masculine side effects are possible in sensitive women; thus we recommend women try legal steroid alternatives first, which are safer compounds.
Top 5 Anadrol Cycles for Huge Gains
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Anadrol (oxymetholone) is a bulking steroid, taken by weight lifters wanting to build large amounts of muscle size (hypertrophy) and strength.
Anadrol’s anabolic power is unrivaled, with it even having the ability to add exceptional size to ectomorphs or ‘hard gainers.
The only steroid that can stand toe to toe with anadrol, in terms of weight gain, is DIANABOL.
As Anadrol is best utilized in the off-season, the following cycles in this article are tailored for bulking. Anadrol can also be used for cutting; however, because of potential water retention and bloat — it is a less common protocol.
Anadrol is a very harsh steroid, thus it should only be cycled by experienced steroid-users (unless beginners take small doses). Beginners preferably should opt for lighter compounds, such as testosterone during their first few cycles.
Top 5 Anadrol Cycles
These cycles will be in the order of weakest to strongest. Thus, as the list goes down, the side effects will become harsher. The very bottom cycles are only for seasoned steroid-users, who have already taken powerful cycles before.
1. Anadrol-Only Cycle
This is a mildly-dosed cycle, tailored for beginners.
If a users’ side effects are quite significant on 50mg per day, refrain from increasing the dose to 75mg on week 4 (continuing with 50mg/day).
100mg doses should be strictly avoided during a first Anadrol cycle.
Despite a lower dose being administered during this cycle, massive increases in size and strength will be experienced, due to the body not having used this compound before.
A beginner taking this cycle is likely to gain 30lbs.
Anadrol-Only Cycle (Advanced)
This Anadrol cycle is for experienced users only.
If someone has previously used Anadrol and their body’s adapted to this compound, they may want to cycle it again, but at a higher dose and a longer period of time (for increased gains).
This cycle is only for those who are in good health and have regular checkups with their doctor, prior to taking this cycle.
If someone currently has bad health and then takes this cycle, it will deteriorate further.
Legal Steroid Alternatives That Work
“There is evidence, if you could use these (steroid alternatives) they would be much better than using anabolic steroids”.
Several of the herbs and amino acids, mentioned by Dr. Thomas O’Connor, are present in Crazy Bulk’s legal steroid alternatives.
CB’s products are backed with clinical research and are safe for men and women to use. You can view their product range (and receive 20% off) by clicking the link below.
2. Anadrol and Deca Durabolin Cycle
Deca Durabolin is an effective injectable steroid that users can stack with Anadrol, increasing muscle hypertrophy and strength.
Deca Durabolin is not a toxic steroid like Anadrol, thus side effects won’t be a lot more severe than running Anadrol by itself. However, testosterone will be more suppressed post-cycle, thus a powerful PCT should be used.
These are fairly modest doses, therefore this cycle may be utilized after cycling Anadrol a couple of times by itself.
The main side effect to prepare for on Deca Durabolin is very low libido and erectile dysfunction, notoriously known as ‘Deca dick’. Deca can cause this effect due to its stimulating effect on prolactin levels.
To combat this and maintain optimal sexual function, men can take Dostinex, otherwise known as Caberglobine. This is a drug that doctors use to effectively treat hyperprolactinemia, a condition where the body produces too much prolactin. Dostinex increases sexual libido and erection quality relatively quickly (1).
Anadrol and Deca Cycle (Advanced)
With this Deca and Anadrol cycle, the user is utilizing higher doses. Thus, results will be increased and so will the severity of side effects.
3. Anadrol and Testosterone Cycle
Testosterone is another powerful bulking steroid that will significantly enhance muscle and strength gains when stacked with Anadrol. This duo is one of the best combinations for mass.
Testosterone is an injectable steroid and thus there won’t be any (significant) additional liver strain with the inclusion of Testosterone.
However, natural testosterone levels will become more suppressed post-cycle, in contrast to taking Anadrol alone. Furthermore, the risk for gynecomastia (gyno), high blood pressure, acne and hair loss will increase.
To combat the onset of gyno during a cycle, a SERM may be taken (such as Nolvadex), to reduce heightened estrogen levels in the breast tissue.
anti-aromatase drugs will not be effective in combating high estrogen levels during this cycle, because Anadrol (unlike Testosterone) does not aromatize. Instead, Anadrol targets the estrogen receptors directly.
4. Anadrol and Winstrol Cycle
This stack could be used as a bulking or cutting cycle.
Winstrol will increase lean muscle gains, whilst drying users out and enhancing fat burning.
This initially seems like a strange stack, because:
Winstrol is a cutting steroid
Winstrol dries the body out, whereas Anadrol often causes significant amounts of water retention
However, when Anadrol isn’t used in conjunction with a high-calorie diet (with lots of sodium), water retention is minimal. If calories and sodium are low, users often report no additional water retention at all; hence why various men’s physique competitors cycle Anadrol before a show, making their muscles appear as full as possible.
Therefore, if your diet accommodates Anadrol in a way that doesn’t cause any fluid retention (low calories/low sodium), the body can remain to look relatively dry; whilst packing on large amounts of muscle.
The only problem with this cycle is that it will be very harsh on the body.
Winstrol and Anadrol are oral steroids, with both of them being hepatotoxic. These are also very suppressive compounds in regards to testosterone, and will have a deleterious effect on the heart; with elevated LDL and reduced HDL cholesterol scores.
This is possibly one of the worst cycles for a bodybuilder when weighing up the pros vs cons. This is because Winstrol won’t make a tremendous difference; yet will exacerbate the side effects of Anadrol significantly.
However, it remains a common cycle among bodybuilders who favour orals vs injectables.
5. Anadrol and Dianabol Cycle
Two of the best bulking steroids on the planet combined in one single cycle.
This cycle will produce the most weight gain and size of any two steroids. This stack will blow users’ muscles up to the point, where they will probably be afraid to perform supersets during their workouts.
It is likely users will lose a noticeable amount of size post-cycle; however, most of this will be water weight, gained from these two wet steroids.
This is one of the worst cycles for your liver, with both of these steroids being orals (and thus c 17 alkylated compounds). Therefore if your liver is not in great condition, do not perform this cycle.
However, there is research to suggest that Anadrol’s effects on the liver are not as bad as the bodybuilding community suggests. Furthermore, the liver can take a battering and still recover easily, compared to other organs. The key with steroids and the liver is to not take lengthy cycles, giving enough rest for it to regenerate post-cycle.
For those interested in this cycle, they should supplement with TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid), with doses of 500mg per day, for up to 3 months, being very effective for inhibiting liver damage (2).
TUDCA should be taken during and after cycles to offer as much protection to the liver as possible. Also, alcohol should be strictly avoided.
Conservative dosages have been used in this sample cycle, with the risk of liver strain (and other side effects) in mind.
Regular cardio is highly recommended to minimize large increases in blood pressure. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly throughout this cycle, as large amounts of water retention and cholesterol shifts are inevitable.
6. Anadrol, Trenbolone and Testosterone Cycle
This trio of steroids stacked together will surely give users the best gains of their life; however, it will also produce very harsh side effects and thus should be used very sparingly (if at all).
Rich Piana stated this was the best cycle he had ever taken.
The main problems with this cycle are extreme testosterone suppression, very high elevations in blood pressure, the risk of gynecomastia and considerable hair thinning/loss on the scalp. There will also be some liver toxicity; however, with the presence of two injectable steroids (test and tren), it will be less hepatotoxic than the Dianabol/Anadrol cycle.
Anadrol and Trenbolone is another common and powerful steroid cycle, which can be taken together like Anadrol and test.
Female Anadrol Cycles
There is ample research to suggest that Anadrol is actually one of the best steroids for women — in regards to those who want to avoid virilization. However, many people believe the opposite to be true and that women should stay away from Anadrol.
In clinical research, when women take mega doses of Anadrol for extremely long periods of time, masculinization does not occur. In a study, doses of 100-150mg were taken for 30 weeks and no virilization effects were seen in any of the female subjects (3).
It is commonly believed that because Anadrol produces harsh side effects in men (some being androgenic), that it will also cause the same masculine effects in women. However, in practical settings, it does not.
The reason for this may be due to Anadrol simultaneously increasing estrogen levels, whilst failing to bind strongly to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). High SHBG levels in women are notorious for causing masculine side effects.
Women may cycle Anadrol alone, or in conjunction with Anavar, for further muscle gains (and fat loss).
Anavar is another female-friendly steroid, that is safe for minimizing the risk of virilization when taken in short cycles.
Anadrol-Only Cycle (Women)
This cycle contains cautious doses of Anadrol, despite research indicating higher doses could possibly be taken without any further risk of virilization.
However, these doses are sufficient for significant muscle and strength gains. This is also a very short cycle, in comparison to those conducted in studies.
Anavar & Anadrol Cycle (Women)
If women have taken Anavar or Anadrol alone in cycles before and would like to build even more muscle; they can stack both compounds together.
Conservative doses are used for each of these steroids, in a 6-week cycle. Anavar doesn’t want to be run for too long, as masculinization has been seen in women running long cycles.
How to Take Anadrol
Anadrol typically comes in 50mg pills. To keep optimal levels of oxymetholone in your bloodstream, it is advised to take 2 doses throughout the day (instead of one).
Therefore, if you are taking 100mg per day you can simply take 2 pills.
For a total dose of 50mg per day, you can use a pill cutter to split the pills in half.
For a total dose of 75mg per day, the best practice would be to take 3 x 25mg pills.
Important: Anadrol pills should be taken on an empty stomach. This is because the tablets are fat-soluble (like other anabolic steroids). Thus taking it with foods, containing dietary fat, will reduce Anadrol’s bio-availability.
There is evidence to suggest the opposite is true when taking Anadrol with grapefruit juice, which potentially may increase its bio-availability, due to the fruit inhibiting CYP3A4, an enzyme in the liver which significantly reduces the absorption of many drugs (including anabolic steroids).
Therefore, if you do take Anadrol with grapefruit juice, be wary of overdosing, as a result of increased absorption.
Post Cycle Therapy
A powerful PCT is required when taking Anadrol to help restore endogenous testosterone production as quickly as possible.
Well-being, sexual health and results tend to suffer post-cycle; however, a PCT will help to reverse these adverse effects.
There are three recommended medications to take for a PCT, these are:
Clomid
Nolvadex
hCG
All of these drugs will increase natural testosterone levels significantly.
If a user is shut down severely, it is recommended to take all three of these medications simultaneously. If someone has just taken Anadrol in moderate doses, they may only take one or two of these drugs.
Here is the most effective PCT protocol:
hCG every second day (for 20 days), taking 2000 IU
Nolvadex every day (for 45 days), taking 2 x 20mg doses
Clomid every day (for 30 days), taking 2 x 50mg doses
Anadrol Before and After
This transformation was from a bodybuilder who was previously natural (left) and then took Anadrol (right). He stacked Anadrol with Deca Durabolin and after several cycles, gained a significant amount of size and mass.
Such a combination has the ability to add up to 40lbs to the scales. This number is likely to increase further with the addition of other steroids.
Anadrol is not the best steroid for maintaining a tight and tiny waist, especially when bulking on higher calories; however if the goal is to pack on as much mass as possible – it can work wonders.
If you are at a high body fat percentage, it might be worth cutting first or taking other steroids over Anadrol; due to the excessive bulking and puffiness that Anadrol can cause.
The heart will also be more protected when a lean person takes Anadrol, compared to someone overweight.
Summary
Any of these Anadrol cycles will produce massive gains in muscular strength and size. Anadrol is one of the most powerful and toxic steroids you can take, why is why users need to be cautious whilst cycling it.
Beginners ideally should stay away from it, until they have first used testosterone.
Intermediates can take it in moderate doses, and experienced users may stack it with other powerful compounds (with caution).
5 powerful Anadrol stacks are:
Anadrol/Testosterone
Anadrol/Trenbolone
Anadrol/Winstrol
Anadrol/Deca Durabolin
Anadrol/Dianabol
However, any steroid stacked with Anadrol is going to produce better results, than taking it alone.
The stacks seen on this page are not the only compounds you can cycle with Oxymetholone. There are other effective compounds, such as Anavar, a commonly used cutting steroid, which can be combined with Anadrol. However, with it being an oral and having mild effects, it is less commonly used.
Post-cycle therapy should always be incorporated for mental and physical recovery.
Always consult a doctor before taking any steroids or medicines discussed in this article, and be sure to get regular health checkups.
