HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE AND AAS CYCLES LOWER THE DOSE FOR BETTER HEALTH

Q: I’ve been using 250 mg of testosterone enanthate (TE) weekly, along with 50 mg of nandrolone decanoate (ND), plus 4iu of growth hormone (GH). My blood pressure recently was 140/90; how can I lower it?

A : This is a moderate cycle and not HRT, as some may believe. It’s important to understand that all anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) can elevate aldosterone levels and sodium retention, which results in water retention. This is a fundamental mechanism that can lead to elevated systemic blood pressure. Therefore, you should consider reducing your doses by half.

Additionally, Growth Hormone (GH) is known to cause fluid retention, so it’s advisable to minimize your dose by half as well. Adding an aromatase inhibitor (AI) can help alleviate edema caused by aromatization and increased estrogen levels.

You may also want to quit stimulants like caffeine and include potassium-rich foods in your diet, such as bananas, potatoes, and oranges. Reducing your intake of table salt is also necessary.

If your blood pressure doesn’t drop to 120/80, you should consider medication. Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs), such as telmisartan or losartan, are commonly used among bodybuilders because they can lower erythrocytosis and remodel the heart, particularly addressing left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH).

Consulting a cardiologist is recommended; you might be advised to wear a 24-hour Holter monitor to track your blood pressure throughout the day. Additionally, check your blood pressure daily, first thing in the morning.