The gym mirror rarely tells the whole story. Behind toned bodies and impressive lifts, a quieter problem is emerging - abnormal liver tests in young, seemingly healthy gym-goers chasing quick results. As shortcuts to a "perfect physique" become more common, so do the hidden risks to liver health. Here's what's really going on beneath the surface.
We spoke to Dr Venkatesh Reddy Raya, Consultant - Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Therapeutic Endoscopist, Arete Hospitals, who explained whether gym supplements and unsafe infections can damage the liver.
When Fitness Hides a Hidden Risk
A situation that liver specialists are seeing more often now involves young men who spend regular time in the gym, appear physically fit, and have no major medical history - yet their liver tests suddenly come back abnormal.
"Quite a few are trying to gain muscle quickly before a competition, vacation, wedding, or simply to achieve a certain physique. Somewhere along the way, supplements, injections, or performance-enhancing products become part of the routine. What many do not realise is that the liver ends up handling everything that enters the body, including substances marketed as fitness support," noted Dr Raya.
The Myth of "Safe Because It's Sold Openly"
"One common misunderstanding is that products sold openly in gyms or online must be safe. That is not always the case. Some powders, capsules, or injectable products may contain ingredients that are not fully disclosed on the label. Occasionally, steroids or hormone-related compounds are mixed into products without users even realising it," explained Dr Raya.