Maximizing Gains: The Role of HCG in Bodybuilding

[MuscleMecca Crew]

HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is often used by men and women with problems having children. Women use it to increase their chances of fertility, while it aids the production of sperm in men. You may have noticed it in pregnancy tests because it is a hormone in women’s urine and blood that determines whether they are pregnant. The injections are also used for different conditions, like obesity and cancer.

However, HCG injections have also gained popularity in the bodybuilding industry. Because of its obesity treatment, its fat-losing effect became beneficial for bodybuilders in their cutting phase. It became popular during the peak of the bodybuilding industry to promote muscle growth and weight loss.

This article will help you with your expectations of its benefits, risks, and side effects, as well as its legality in the bodybuilding industry. Read through if you are considering using HCG injections in your fitness journey.

The Science Behind HCG​

The primary function of HCG is to stimulate testosterone production by up to 60%. It mimics the functions of luteinizing hormones, which help the Leydig cells in men produce more testosterone. In medical use, it helps create more sperm to increase the chances of fertility. But in bodybuilding, it provides the effects of high testosterone and enhances performance.

Compared to anabolic steroids, it mainly focuses on testosterone production rather than promoting muscle growth and enhanced athletic performance. Some bodybuilders use HCG and anabolic steroids to balance testosterone production and muscle growth.

HCG in Bodybuilding​

Why Bodybuilders Use HCG​

HCG is an essential supplement to support your anabolic steroids. These are used during the cutting phase or in post-cycle therapy. Anabolic steroids alone will suppress testosterone levels.

Once the testosterone levels become low due to the continuous use of anabolic steroids, the HCG injections will aid in increasing the testosterone levels. Though not required, it is the fastest way to recover from the anabolic steroid cycle. HCG injections help reverse its effects, improving muscle growth and overall well-being.

These are administered by injecting them into the fats of the stomach or thighs. However, a medical professional should be in charge of HCG use during the anabolic steroid cycle and the post-cycle period. Incorrect dosages and processes may still have adverse side effects. Despite the risks, it is still considered safer than using anabolic steroids alone.

Potential Benefits of HCG in Bodybuilding​

Many of its users have proven its results in weight loss and muscle building. Bodybuilders consider HCG an effective tool for getting a leaner and more muscular physique. Its effect on testosterone levels helps minimize muscle loss by preventing muscle breakdown.

When combined with a low-calorie diet, a bodybuilder can burn off unwanted fat during the cutting phase. Additionally, it increases metabolism while suppressing hunger.

HCG is not an alternative to anabolic steroids, but it makes their use safer by decreasing the side effects of anabolic steroids. Aside from losing fat and improving muscle mass, it also reduces the likelihood of gaining man boobs and promotes muscle recovery.

HCG and Performance Enhancement​

HCG will not directly enhance your strength and endurance in bodybuilding. Instead, it will provide different effects, such as pain management and stimulation of testosterone. The increased level of testosterone will improve your strength and endurance. On the other hand, its benefits in pain treatment can help you get back into training after an intense one.

This drug does not possess the same benefits in enhancing performance as anabolic steroids, since these were not developed mainly for bodybuilding. If you want to improve your performance, use PEDs, get proper nutrition, and improve your overall lifestyle choices.

Research and Studies​

It is proven to help with infertility problems, but only a few studies have been conducted on bodybuilding. However, medical and bodybuilding professionals always recommend including HCG in anabolic steroids. It can be during the steroid cycle or while on post-cycle therapy.

In a clinical trial study published by the National Library of Medicine, three months of HCG treatment helped increase weight, create a leaner body mass, and reduce body fat in men ages 40 and 60. However, it did not cause any increase in shoulder and knee strength, as well as physical activities. It was concluded that it affects muscle building but does not contribute to muscle strength for physical activities.

Another study stated that HCG does not affect women when it comes to bodybuilding and only helps with fertility. Because it provides higher testosterone production, men use these benefits as a reason for doping.

Risks and Side Effects​

Anything you use for your body may have side effects, especially when you misuse it. Misusing includes wrong doses, prolonged use, and use for different reasons. Before taking the doses, you should consider their possible effects since it may cause long-term problems for your health.

Short-Term Side Effects​

Generally, HCG is safe to use for medical treatments. However, since it is used regularly in bodybuilding, athletes may experience short-term side effects like allergic reactions, swelling of the injection site, and skin issues. Excessive use may also cause hormonal imbalances instead of maintaining balance.

Your skin may experience rashes, itching, and swelling, especially on the injection site. Though these are sometimes normal and may subside in a few hours, you must inform your doctor. These short-term side effects can be bothersome and may hinder you from focusing while working out. If you aren’t sure about the allergic reaction to HCG, seek professional advice first.

Long-Term Side Effects​

Like anabolic steroids, excessive and prolonged use of HCG may also have adverse and long-term side effects. These effects can’t be seen initially, but they may impose serious health risks in the long run, even if you have stopped using HCG.

Some severe side effects of HCG misuse are anaphylaxis due to allergic reactions, blood clots, and psychological changes. People with a family history of blood clots should be careful of using HCG since these may lead to heart attack and pulmonary embolism. Sudden changes in speech and chest pains should be immediately reported to health care professionals since these are the symptoms of having a stroke.

Supporting Your HCG Use​

Proper diet and nutrition can help support and maximize the effects of HCG in your bodybuilding journey. You need to follow a strict bodybuilding diet to ensure you have the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to give you energy and aid in muscle recovery. You may switch to natural bodybuilding to avoid any potential side effects.

Aside from proper diet and nutrition, a health professional should also monitor your health. They will administer the correct dose and know the appropriate HCG and bacteriostatic water mixture. The proper dosage will be based on your health and condition and how your body reacts to the drug.

Legal and Ethical Considerations​

Like anabolic steroids, HCG is legal when used to treat medical conditions. However, anti-doping laws might still apply if you use it for performance-enhancing purposes. Some bodybuilding organizations allow the use of HCG because it is essential in post-cycle therapy. Still, many consider this a violation of sports ethics–fair play and hard work.

If you are an aspiring bodybuilder and plan to join competitions, you need to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations. Each organization is different and has various substances banned on its lists.

Conclusion​

HCG is a big help in steroid cycles since it aids in minimizing the side effects of anabolic steroids. It can maintain the testosterone levels in your body to give you better muscle growth and reduced recovery time. Prioritizing your overall health when using HCG is crucial, especially with other substances for performance enhancement. Consider the possibilities of the short-term and long-term side effects, or its benefits outweigh the risks.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Can I inject HCG on my own?​

Yes, but it requires knowledge and training before it is done at home. You need to ensure the proper mixture and correct amount of medication before injection.

Does HCG work like an anabolic steroid?​

No. Anabolic steroids work in performance enhancement and directly improve muscle mass, strength, and endurance but can suppress the level of testosterone in the body. On the other hand, HCG supports using anabolic steroids by increasing testosterone production.

Is there any administration aside from injections?​

HCG for bodybuilding is only available via injection. However, there are oral drops or tablets when used for treating medical conditions.

Is HCG expensive?​

It depends on the pharmacy where you will purchase the HCG. On average, HCG shots costs around $200 and may be more expensive when injected by medical personnel.

How much HCG should I use during a steroid cycle?​

Many bodybuilders inject 500 to 1,000 IU of HCG twice or thrice a week during the last four weeks of a steroid cycle.