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The Use Of Steroids And Its Effects On The Endocrine And Reproductive System

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It seems as though throughout the years, the usage of steroids has always been to enhance your performance, whether that be for a sport or body mass and muscle strength in general. I find this chapter in Psychology interesting, because It goes hand and hand with Anatomy, which I am currently learning. I would like to further explore the basics on where our body produces natural steroids, the effects on the endocrine and reproductive system due to steroid use, and lastly, the damage steroid use can have on your mentality. The adrenal glands, located above the kidneys, are where natural hormones and steroids that the body uses are secreted and regulated. These hormones and steroids come from either the adrenal cortex, or the adrenal medulla. Hormones from the cortex start at the pituitary gland where ACTH or adrenocorticotrophic hormone is secreted. “ The adrenal cortex secretes hormones known as corticosteroids, or cortical steroids.”( Rather, Spencer) There are three zones of the adrenal cortex, the zona glomerulosa, fasciulata, and reticularis. Each of these zones produce specific steroid hormones. Two main types of steroids among many others are Cortisol and Aldosterone. Cortisol is referred to as the stress hormone as it is involved in the response to stress and anxiety. Aldosterone increases reabsorption and retention of sodium and water in the kidneys. This process involves secretion of potassium and is stimulated by low blood sodium, this increases blood volume and

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