Ergogenic substances and drive for muscularity among gym users at different risk levels for muscle dysmorphia

Abstract

Many studies have investigated the association between ergogenic substance use and symptoms of eating disorders, but not with the muscle dysmorphia risk level. In this research, the practice of exercise, the use of anabolic steroids and nutrition supplements, among gym users at different risk levels for muscle dysmorphia, as well as the reasons for use were analyzed. The association between the use of supplements and steroids and the drive for muscularity was also investigated. Participated 158 men gym users (age range: 16-58 years), who completed three questionnaires: 1) Substance use, 2) Drive for Muscularity Scale and 3) Muscle Appearance Satisfaction Scale. The results indicated that 12.0% of the gym users had a high risk of muscle dysmorphia, of these, 52.6 % use steroids and 89.5 % dietary supplements. These substances are consumed mainly for cosmetic and physical appearance reasons. The most commonly used steroids are testosterone, boldenone, stanozolol, trenbolone, and nandrolone decanoate. The most popular supplements consumed are proteins, amino acids, glutamine, creatine and L-carnitine. The use of steroids and supplements is associated positively and significantly with age, BMI, some characteristics of exercise, and attitudes and behaviors inherent in the drive for muscularity. The importance of promoting measures that alert users to the consequences of the use and abuse of these substances, to contribute to risk-reduction of muscle dysmorphia is discussed.