
Would You Take Steroids? Your Answers Are In...
A few days ago, I asked:
“Would you take testosterone replacement therapy? Maybe if the health risks aren’t there? Even if they are? Should testosterone be legal without a prescription?”
And people weren’t shy about their answers. Some of my favorites:
“Yes. Yes. And yes.”
I’ll assume a fourth yes was meant to be weaved in there somewhere.
“Yes, I would.”
Sweet!
“Hi Doug,
“The simple answer to your question is: I would you take testosterone replacement therapy if the health risks aren’t there. But if the risks are there, I still would consider taking testosterone if I would have knowledge and full understanding of those risks. I would like to know what the science says about the health risks. In my opinion, testosterone should be legal without a prescription.”
Thanks for writing in. And next time I see Doug, I’ll mention you mistook me for him. Hearing that will be the highlight of Doug’s day for sure…
“I have been taking a pharmacy-compounded testosterone cream for over 10 years with no adverse side effects. When I started, my testosterone level was almost zero.”
I’m not a doctor, but zero sounds pretty low. And no adverse side effects seems like an acceptable amount.
“Yes and yes if benefits outweigh risks. Life is not without risk.”
Indeed. If one thinks of his or her body as a vessel, than William G.T. Shedd’s quote seems especially appropriate: “A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.”
There were plenty more comments, and a few were negative. But the ratio was roughly 20-1 in favor of better living through chemistry…
… as long as it’s the right chemistry. And as safe as possible.
So come Monday, I’ll reveal some surprising facts about one of the biggest safety concerns of all when it comes to testosterone replacement therapy: prostate cancer. You’re definitely going to want to tune in for this one.
In the meantime, I’ll close with this comment:
“I would consider supplementing testosterone if there weren’t any side effects. But generally, there are two conditions in our bodies, neurological and biochemical. If our testosterone levels are dropping, isn’t there a natural way to change the biochemistry to help produce higher levels of production?”
Yes! At the risk of boring you, I have to harp on it again:
Resistance training. Specifically, intense weight training will get the ole “low T” rising to the occasion. According to a study out of the Human Performance Laboratory at the University of Connecticut, “Protocols high in volume, moderate to high in intensity, using short rest intervals and stressing a large muscle mass, tend to produce the greatest acute hormonal elevations…” like testosterone.
In other words, lift those weights, work hard, don’t lollygag, and do exercises in which you use your bigger leg, chest, and back muscles.
Have fun at the gym,
Nate Rifkin
Underground Health Researcher

Written By Nate Rifkin
Nate Rifkin is an obsessed health and mind-power researcher and author. To hear more from Nate, sign up to receive Living Well Daily for free, here.
View More Free Articles
Can't Shake Negative Thoughts? Check Your GUT First
Everyone struggles sometimes to stay positive or see the bright side of things. It’s part of being human. You might think those negative thoughts start in your brain—but it’s more complicated than that. A simple change to your daily habit can help dial down those negative feelings. New research suggests that this simple strategy could...
Repair Your Gut Barrier With the “Sunshine Cure”
Happy Fourth of July! As you celebrate with sunshine, good food, and great company, don’t forget—those summer rays aren’t just lifting your spirits… they’re also working behind the scenes to protect your gut and boost your health. Your gut health is more important than most people realize. It directly affects your overall well-being—from immunity to...
The 5 Health Numbers Your Doctor Wishes You'd Track
Have you ever been told you should “advocate” for yourself when it comes to your healthcare and wondered what that really means? It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a powerful concept that empowers you to take charge of your own health journey. In fact, it could save your life. Being your own best health advocate starts...
Do THIS Every 20 Minutes to STOP Digital Eye Strain
Our eyes are under assault—they are the true victims of our current digital age. And it’s because we are constantly glued to screens… phones, tablets, computers, TVs—you name it. Unfortunately, that screen time is taking a serious toll. Digital eye strain affects millions worldwide. In fact, up to 50 percent of computer users could develop...
Mailbag: The Calcium Mistake That's Hardening Your Arteries
“What type of calcium is best to take with bisphosphonates for osteoporosis? I know some varieties can build up in arteries. Thanks for the help.” —Bone Builder Hi Builder, When a patient asks me about calcium, I ask them a peculiar question in return… “Ever wonder how elephants and giraffes build and maintain their massive...
Doctor-Approved Method to Ditch Blood Pressure Meds
In a world where drug solutions dominate healthcare, it’s refreshing to discover that best remedies sometimes don’t involve a single pill. A groundbreaking study shows simple relaxation techniques could be your secret weapon against one of America’s deadliest health conditions. Best of all? It’s free, easy to start right away—and your results are bound to...
Trouble Hearing? Your Heart Could Be at Risk
With research exploding and data pouring in, scientists are uncovering some weird (and surprisingly helpful) health connections. Today’s odd couple? Hearing loss and heart failure. Turns out your ears and your ticker are more connected than you ever imagined. A major study published in the journal Heart looked at over 164,000 people for nearly a...
Stay Up Late? It Could Destroy Your Mental Health
If you dread mornings but come alive at night, there’s concerning new research you need to know about. A recent study found that “night owls” are at higher risk for depression. But before you rush to set your alarm to get up with the sun tomorrow, there’s more to the story… Chronotypes are essentially your...
Go from Flabby to Fit with this Common Vitamin
If you’re like many of us, you woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and realized you’re no spring chicken anymore. Even worse—when you weren’t paying attention—it seems you somehow misplaced the muscles of your youth and have gone from fit to flabby. Aging has a way of humbling us like that. But scientists...
Seasonal Allergy “Off Switch” Discovered in the GUT
“Doc, why am I suddenly suffering from seasonal allergies when I’ve never had them before?” It’s a question I get all the time—and my answer might surprise you. Stop looking up at the trees—and start looking down at your gut… Your sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and runny nose might have more to do with what’s...