From the Research
Naturally occurring steroids are organic compounds produced by living organisms, primarily in the adrenal glands, gonads, and placenta in humans and animals, with cholesterol serving as the precursor molecule for all steroid hormones in the body. These compounds have a characteristic structure of four interconnected carbon rings and play crucial roles in regulating various physiological processes. Examples include cortisol, which helps manage stress and inflammation; aldosterone, which regulates salt and water balance; and sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which control reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics 1.
Key Characteristics of Naturally Occurring Steroids
- They are produced by living organisms, primarily in the adrenal glands, gonads, and placenta in humans and animals
- They have a characteristic structure of four interconnected carbon rings
- They play crucial roles in regulating various physiological processes, such as stress response, inflammation, salt and water balance, and reproductive functions
- Cholesterol serves as the precursor molecule for all steroid hormones in the body, which is then converted into various steroid hormones through a series of enzyme-catalyzed reactions 2
Examples of Naturally Occurring Steroids
- Cortisol: helps manage stress and inflammation
- Aldosterone: regulates salt and water balance
- Testosterone: controls reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics in males
- Estrogen: controls reproductive functions and secondary sexual characteristics in females
- Phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol, which are produced by plants and have similar functions to cholesterol in animals 3
Differences from Synthetic Anabolic Steroids
- Naturally occurring steroids are produced by the body and have essential functions in regulating various physiological processes
- Synthetic anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are manufactured to mimic the effects of testosterone but often cause serious side effects when misused, such as liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and mental health problems 4