Bodybuilders Warned About Kidney Damage

Kidney damage is proving to be a sometimes fatal weakness for many in the world of competitive bodybuilding. Long-term steroid use is believed to be the main cause, but doctors also blame a training regimen that can wreak havoc on the body. The increased muscle mass of bodybuilders can put the same strain on the kidneys as obesity, forcing some to retire in their 30s with permanent kidney damage.

A recent study focusing on bodybuilders linked long-term steroid use to kidney damage for the first time. Researchers believe the current cases may be just the tip of the iceberg as bodybuilders bulk up bigger than ever before. "Each decade you have a guy that comes along that sets new standards and you say, 'OK, now I’m going to have to take it to the next level,'” a professional bodybuilder tells the New York Times. (More kidney stories.)