Why bodybuilders face higher cardiac risks

I strongly agree with the age-old dictum: “Foolish is the doctor who despises the knowledge of the ancients.” We must always delve into the past to ferret out knowledge gained by our predecessors and combine it with modern technology to produce the best results.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt condolences on the passing of a Punjabi actor and bodybuilder, who left us just days ago at the age of 42. This is an age when a person is typically at the peak of their physical prowess.

Modern sport, particularly bodybuilding, demands immense skill, strength and stamina in equal measure. Unlike strength-based sports such as powerlifting, bodybuilding is primarily aesthetic, with a focus on muscular hypertrophy and physical appearance.

Unfortunately, in pursuit of a competitive edge, many bodybuilders resort to the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), which are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone, testosterone. These substances, often used without medical supervision, can dramatically enhance muscle mass and performance, but at a steep cost. Misuse of these steroids has been linked to serious health risks, including damage to the heart and kidneys. Without a prescription, their use is illegal and medically dangerous. Studies have shown that bodybuilders are at five times greater risk of heart attack compared to the general population, although multiple contributing factors are involved.

One such factor is extreme dehydration, a strategy sometimes employed by athletes in international competitions to qualify for a specific weight category. This makes blood thicker and leads towards a heart attack due to the formation of a clot. Moreover, intense bursts of exercise can put enormous strain on the cardiovascular system, especially in the presence of underlying risk factors.

I recall performing bypass surgery on a former Mr Punjab who developed heart disease. Based on such experiences, I strongly recommend regular cardiac check-ups, a gradual and supervised exercise plan under the guidance of a qualified coach, a prudent low-fat diet free from deep-fried foods and the avoidance of artificial supplements.

Healthy habits adopted today are the foundation of a healthy heart tomorrow.