Steroid side effects and use Steroid side effects and use Steroids are lipids, which means they are natural products from living organisms which are insoluble in water yet soluble in organic solvents. In humans, steroids are hormones secreted chiefly by the adrenal glands but also by the testicles and ovaries. These hormones help to control metabolism, development of sexual characteristics, immune function, fluid balance within the body and stress tolerance. The sex hormones and corticosteroids are derived from one of the most common steroids, cholesterol.
Cholesterol makes up an important part of cell membrane.
However, an excess of serum cholesterol is a contributor to harmful deposits within the arteries. Bile acids, a steroid found in mammals, emulsifies fat during digestion, while the corticosteroids maintain fluid balance within the body. Sterols are the most abundant steroids and are treated with organic solvents to isolate them from their natural sources. Anabolic steroids, which mimic the effects of the male hormones, are used illegally by some athletes to obtain greater muscle mass and to increase strength. Derived from the hormone testosterone, anabolic steroids induce the body to gain weight and muscle mass but carry serious side effects if overly used.