Most bodybuilders follow very low-fat diets. Analysis of their total blood cholesterol usually shows levels of 150 or less. Medical experts say that at this level of cholesterol, atherosclerosis doesn t occur. The high-fruit content of bodybuilders diets is rich in potassium, which stimulates sodium excretion, and has a protective effect on arteries particularly in the brain. A lower level of bodyfat usually comes with lower cholesterol levels and reduced blood pressure.
Bodybuilders use aerobics to keep bodyfat levels low.
Aerobics also strengthen the heart, and may increase cardiac reserve, which protects against fatal heart attacks. A major aspect in all this is that most rational bodybuilders never stay on steroids all-year round. They use them for short periods, or cycles, often before major competitions. Those bodybuilders foolish enough to stay on steroids all the time are subject to the possible dangerous effects of steroids on heart disease as mentioned above. Bodybuilders who don t follow commonly accepted preventive measures against heart disease are at high risk when they use steroids.