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How to Protect Liver While on Steroids [Updated 2024]

by Nader Qudimat
Updated December 21, 2023

In this article, I'm going to show you the best liver protection supplements during steroid cycles.

I've spent countless hours researching, analyzing, and comparing various supplements, their ingredients, and their effects on liver health.

I've also delved into scientific studies and consulted with health experts to ensure the information I provide is accurate and reliable.

So if you're looking for a comprehensive guide to liver protection supplements, you've come to the right place.

Whether you're a bodybuilder, an athlete, or just someone who's concerned about liver health during steroid cycles, this article is for you.

I'll cover everything from the importance of liver health during steroid cycles, and key ingredients to look for in liver protection supplements, to the top liver protection supplements on the market.

By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of how to protect your liver during steroid cycles and which supplements can help you do so.

So, are you ready to dive in and learn how to keep your liver healthy during steroid cycles? Let's get started...

RECOMMENDED
Defend by Huge Nutrition

Defend is a complete formula for organ defense which will optimize healthy functions through different angles.

Containing 120 capsules per bottle, this is one of the most comprehensive on-cycle supplements you can get today.

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AFFORDABLE
Gear Support by Blackstone Labs

When it comes to gear use, Blackstone Labs knows how to maximize the protection.

With 45 servings per serving, this is one of the cheaper options for cycle protection.

It contains the basics and covers what your body needs to keep safe from harsh anabolics.

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Here's the truth...

Steroids come with a baggage of side effects.

They can be a ticking time bomb, especially if you're not prepared with Post Cycle Therapy (PCT).

Synthetic steroids, while effective, are notorious for their toxicity and potential harm to your hormones and organs.

They're often the go-to choice for athletes and bodybuilders looking to enhance muscle growth and performance.

But with great results come great risks.

Your organs, particularly your liver, bear the brunt of the damage when you're on anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS).

But don't worry, there's a silver lining.

You can mitigate the toxicity and shield your liver during steroid cycles.

In this article, we'll show you how to safeguard your liver and organs, why it's crucial, and which products pack the most punch in terms of effectiveness.

Let's get started!

Best Liver Protection for Steroid Cycles

BEST PROTECTION 

Defend by Huge Nutrition

$59.99
on ...com
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INGREDIENTS:
Detoxifies organs and protects them
Enhances organ health
Provides strongest protection for the liver
 None

We have seen all kinds of liver protection supplements but there are none that come close to Defend by Huge Nutrition.

This is a liver protection supplement that contains 7 potent ingredients at the full clinical dosages. 

We have never seen any product that comes close to this formula, let alone the dosages.

Here are the ingredients used in Defend:

  • 1000mg Milk Thistle Extract
  • 600mg N-Acetyl-Cysteine
  • 500mg Peppermint Leaf Powder
  • 250mg TUDCA 
  • 200mg Red Clover
  • 150mg Hawthorn Berry Extract
  • 250mg Saw Palmetto Extract

Looking at these ingredients and dosages alone already makes Defend look like one of the best choices for liver protection. 

It not only has 7 potent ingredients but they are all clinically dosed with research backed benefits. 

Starting with a full gram of milk thistle extract, this ingredient can enhance liver function and strengthen gallbladder health. 

Milk thistle is packed with silymarin, a strong liver detox agent that can reduce oxidative stress. [1

Defend contains a standardized 80% of silymarin here. 

If this was just 1g of milk thistle without the other ingredients, this would outperform most liver protection supplements. 

Milk thistle can also increase protein and DNA synthesis in the liver, and is considered to be one of the best protection ingredients that can enhance and repair the liver. [2

The next ingredient is N-Acetyl-Cysteine, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against oxidative stress that is brought by free radicals. [345]

It's a potent liver protectant and it's been proven to be one of the best compounds for enhancing liver health. [67

To help aid digestion, reduce bloating and gas, Defend has peppermint leaf powder.

Peppermint leaf can help relieve pain and relax the digestive system. This is important for bodybuilders and steroid users who tend to eat a lot of food, which can cause digestive stress. 

Tudca is a bile salt found in the body that comes with strong benefits for organ health especially for the liver. 

Research shows that tudca can improve liver health without side effects. [8

Next up is red clover, an essential ingredient for steroid users. 

It can reduce blood pressure, something steroid users usually struggle with. [9

Hawthorn is traditionally used to help enhance heart health. It's been shown to improve the health of the heart and the research proves this, although it's been used for centuries. [1011

Saw palmetto is important for steroid cycles because it's one of the best ingredients to include for prostate health. 

Steroid cycles are known to possibly cause enlarged prostates so saw palmette can help support prostate health. [12

Clearly, Defend is a well rounded liver protection supplement that is a must for steroid users. 

It contains everything that can prevent the common side effects that steroid cycles often come with. 

From enhancing digestion, improving blood pressure to protecting the liver and more. 

Use discount code FITFREK.

We have seen all kinds of liver protection supplements but there are none that come close to Defend by Huge Nutrition.

This is a liver protection supplement that contains 7 potent ingredients at the full clinical dosages. 

We have never seen any product that comes close to this formula, let alone the dosages.

Here are the ingredients used in Defend:

  • 1000mg Milk Thistle Extract
  • 600mg N-Acetyl-Cysteine
  • 500mg Peppermint Leaf Powder
  • 250mg TUDCA 
  • 200mg Red Clover
  • 150mg Hawthorn Berry Extract
  • 250mg Saw Palmetto Extract

Looking at these ingredients and dosages alone already makes Defend look like one of the best choices for liver protection. 

It not only has 7 potent ingredients but they are all clinically dosed with research backed benefits. 

Starting with a full gram of milk thistle extract, this ingredient can enhance liver function and strengthen gallbladder health. 

Milk thistle is packed with silymarin, a strong liver detox agent that can reduce oxidative stress. [1

Defend contains a standardized 80% of silymarin here. 

If this was just 1g of milk thistle without the other ingredients, this would outperform most liver protection supplements. 

Milk thistle can also increase protein and DNA synthesis in the liver, and is considered to be one of the best protection ingredients that can enhance and repair the liver. [2

The next ingredient is N-Acetyl-Cysteine, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against oxidative stress that is brought by free radicals. [345]

It's a potent liver protectant and it's been proven to be one of the best compounds for enhancing liver health. [67

To help aid digestion, reduce bloating and gas, Defend has peppermint leaf powder.

Peppermint leaf can help relieve pain and relax the digestive system. This is important for bodybuilders and steroid users who tend to eat a lot of food, which can cause digestive stress. 

Tudca is a bile salt found in the body that comes with strong benefits for organ health especially for the liver. 

Research shows that tudca can improve liver health without side effects. [8

Next up is red clover, an essential ingredient for steroid users. 

It can reduce blood pressure, something steroid users usually struggle with. [9

Hawthorn is traditionally used to help enhance heart health. It's been shown to improve the health of the heart and the research proves this, although it's been used for centuries. [1011

Saw palmetto is important for steroid cycles because it's one of the best ingredients to include for prostate health. 

Steroid cycles are known to possibly cause enlarged prostates so saw palmette can help support prostate health. [12

Clearly, Defend is a well rounded liver protection supplement that is a must for steroid users. 

It contains everything that can prevent the common side effects that steroid cycles often come with. 

From enhancing digestion, improving blood pressure to protecting the liver and more. 

Use discount code FITFREK.

CHECK IT OUT
AFFORDABLE

Gear Support by Blackstone Labs

$59.99
on ...com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:

400mg N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC), 300mg Hawthorne, 200mg Saw Palmetto, 100mg Red Clover, 75mg Celery Extract, 75mg Grape Seed Extract

When it comes to potent supplements, Blackstone Labs has been known to release some of the best. 

They know a thing or two about steroid protection and with Gear Support, this is one of the best for the price. 

It's a simple formula 6 ingredient formula with 45 servings, which should last you a solid month. 

Using gear means you need to use protective ingredients to help offset the harsh effects.

Starting off with 400mg NAC, this is commonly used for liver health. 

Next is 300mg Hawthorne Flower and Leaf Extract,  a helpful ingredient for lowering blood pressure. 

To protect your prostate health, Saw Palmetto here is included at a 200mg dose. 

And of course to combat high cholesterol issues that come with gear, there is 100mg of Red Clover, along with 75mg Celery Extract. 

The last ingredient is Grape Seed Extract, dosed at 75mg, which is included to help enhance cardiovascular health. 

For liver protection, these ingredients will be helpful as there's NAC, an ingredient that's used to treat liver issues. 

It's considered to be a solid gear support supplement, although it's basic, it does the job without causing side effects. 

Some of the ingredients are dosed low, but that likely what allows the price to be low on this one. 

Gear Support is still a solid pick for the price.

Provides a solid base of protection
Protects liver health
Cheapest option
 None
CHECK IT OUT
LIVER PROTECTION

CHEMICAL TudGenesis™ (TUDCA) by Chaos and Pain

$59.99
on ...com
CHECK IT OUT 
INGREDIENTS:

250mg TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic acid)

Whether you're on gear or not, supplements made for liver protection are vital for anyone who cares about their metabolic health. 

Taking supplements to support your liver is incredibly useful even if you're a natural athlete. 

The reason for this is because strenuous exercise can take a toll on the liver even if you're healthy

Chaos and Pain is one of the trusted companies for supplements and here they have TUDCA dosed at 250mg per serving.

Like a lot of health beneficial ingredients, TUDCA has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to help treat liver disorders.

Aside from a number of health benefits, TUDCA is especially helpful for the liver. 

Ursodeoxycholic acid, or TUDCA, is conjugated with taurine, an amino acid. 

It's commonly used to treat cholestasis, which happens when your liver accumulates toxins.

When this happens, fat digestions can slow down and it can damage the liver severely. 

In a number of studies, 250mg of TUDCA is safe but yet as effective as PBC (a treatment using primary biliary cholangitis).

TUDCA is a fascinating compound that always has new studies proving it's effectiveness for liver health. 

Use discount code FITFREK.

Provides a solid base of protection
Protects liver health
Cheapest option
 None
CHECK IT OUT

Liver Protection For Steroid Cycles

Today, we're diving into a topic that's crucial for anyone considering a steroid cycle: liver protection.

Steroids can offer impressive gains, but they also come with a cost - potential liver damage.

But don't worry, we've got your back (and your liver). We're going to explore the best liver protection supplements you can use during steroid cycles to keep your liver healthy and happy.

Importance of Liver Health during Steroid Cycles

First things first, let's talk about why liver health is so important during a steroid cycle.

Your liver is a vital organ that performs hundreds of essential functions, including detoxifying harmful substances in your body.

When you're on a steroid cycle, your liver works overtime to process the steroids, which can lead to toxicity and damage.

That's where liver protection supplements come in.

The liver is often referred to as the body's chemical factory.

This is because it is responsible for the synthesis of proteins and other essential compounds that are then transported to muscles and other parts of the body.

When an individual is on a steroid cycle, the liver's role becomes even more critical.

Steroids are synthetic substances similar to the male sex hormone testosterone.

They can positively affect human bodies by improving physical performance, increasing muscle growth, and enhancing bone strength.

However, they can also lead to specific health problems, including liver toxicity or damage [1, 2, 3]

Liver toxicity may occur both directly and indirectly. Direct toxicity can result from the toxic effect of some steroids, while indirect toxicity can occur as steroids may lead to the over synthesis of particular substances, causing an overload on the organ and a burnout effect [3].

The liver, despite its relative resistance and capacity for regeneration, can suffer damage that can be irreversible. These damages can lead to the death of many cells and result in conditions such as cirrhosis and cancer [2].

Therefore, it's essential to take precautions to ensure this very important organ remains as "intact as possible" during a steroid cycle [2].

One of the ways to protect the liver is by avoiding the use of alkylated steroids or 17 alpha-alkylated-androgenic steroids (AAS). These steroids have been connected to hepatotoxicity because they inhibit the excretory function of the liver and prevent the breakdown of toxins in the liver [3].

Non-alkylated steroids, on the other hand, show little association between their usage and liver side effects. Their formula contains agents that are more soluble in lipids, leading to a slower release of the steroid into circulation, resulting in less harm to the liver [3].

Another strategy is to choose a short steroid cycle over a long one. The longer the cycle, the more harm it can cause to the liver. If a longer cycle is necessary, it's recommended to prefer injectable steroids to oral ones [3].

Taking breaks from steroid use is also crucial.

The liver is excellent at regeneration, but it requires frequent breaks from the overload caused due to continuous use of steroids [3].

Lastly, the use of hepatoprotective supplements can help restore and repair your liver during and after steroid usage. These supplements promote liver function and health, protect liver cells from damage, detoxify the liver, and improve blood flow from the organ [3].

Maintaining liver health during a steroid cycle is important to say the least.

By taking the necessary precautions and measures, one can ensure the liver remains healthy and functional, allowing the individual to continue their steroid cycle safely.

The Role of Liver Protection Supplements in Steroid Cycles

Liver protection supplements are designed to support liver health and combat the hepatotoxic effects of steroids.

Theycontain ingredients that promote liver detoxification, reduce inflammation, and support the regeneration of liver cells.

Using these supplements during your steroid cycle can help keep your liver functioning optimally and reduce the risk of damage.

Key Ingredients to Look for in Liver Protection Supplements

When choosing a liver protection supplement, there are a few key ingredients you should look for:

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a plant that has been used for centuries to treat liver problems. It contains a compound called silymarin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect the liver from toxins and help repair liver cells.

TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid)

TUDCA is a bile acid that is naturally produced in the liver. It has been shown to protect liver cells from damage and promote the healing of the liver.

NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

NAC is an antioxidant that can help reduce oxidative stress in the liver, which is often increased during a steroid cycle. It can also help to detoxify the liver.

Hawthorn Berry

Hawthorn berry is a plant that is known for its ability to support heart health, but it can also be beneficial for the liver. It has antioxidant properties and can help to protect the liver from damage.

Top Liver Protection Supplements for Steroid Cycles

Now that we know what to look for, let's take a look at some of the top liver protection supplements for steroid cycles:

  1. Defend by Huge Supplements
  2. Advanced Cycle Support by Iron Labs
  3. Blockade Cycle Support by Assault Labs
  4. 5% Nutrition Liver & Organ Defender

Defend by Huge Supplements

Defend is a top-rated liver support supplement that contains all the key ingredients we mentioned earlier.

It's designed to provide comprehensive liver support during your steroid cycle, helping to protect your liver and promote its healthy function.

Advanced Cycle Support by Iron Labs

Advanced Cycle Support is another great option for liver protection during a steroid cycle. It contains a blend of ingredients designed to support liver health, although it doesn't contain TUDCA, which is a powerful liver protector.

Blockade Cycle Support by Assault Labs

Blockade is a comprehensive cycle support supplement that includes liver support ingredients as well as other components to support overall health during a steroid cycle. It includes TUDCA and milk thistle for liver protection, along with other ingredients for heart and prostate health.

5% Nutrition Liver & Organ Defender

This supplement from 5% Nutrition is designed to support not just the liver, but also the heart, kidneys, prostate, and skin. It includes a hefty dose of TUDCA, along with other liver-supporting ingredients like NAC and milk thistle.

How to Use Liver Protection Supplements Effectively

To get the most out of your liver protection supplements, it's important to use them correctly.

Most of these supplements should be taken daily, even on non-workout days.

It's also crucial to follow the recommended dosage on the product label.

Remember, more isn't always better, especially when it comes to supplements.

The Risks of Not Using Liver Protection Supplements During Steroid Cycles

Skipping liver protection during your steroid cycle is a risk you don't want to take.

Without proper liver support, you're leaving your liver vulnerable to potential damage from the steroids.

This can lead to serious health issues down the line, including liver disease and liver failure.

Ingredients to Protect the Liver

If you're on a oral cycle, then you need to get maximum protection. 

TUDCA and NAC will be a must as they both offer optimal protection for your liver. 

For general health, you should take vitamin D (at least 5000iu), fish oil, and green tea extract. 

The best protection you can get is taking these on a daily basis during a cycle:

  • NAC (for the liver)
  • CoQ10 (to minimize and protect the damage from bad blood lipids)
  • Cranberry (for kidney protection, especially if you're using TREN)
  • Super Enzymes (a must for digestion health as gear can cause issues)

For everyday use, we recommend these ingredients:

  • Curcumin (reduces inflammation)
  • Fish oil (inflammation again and blood lipid health
  • Magnesium (for stress and sleep)
  • Zinc and copper (for sleep and health)
  • Vitamin D (for health and deficiency issues)
  • Ashwagandha (for cortisol and blood lipids)

This one ingredient is very useful when it comes to liver protection and that's TUDCA.

Taking at least 250mg will support liver health but the downside is that it can be expensive. 

However this has been proven to be healthy and can help reduce toxic metabolite formation.

And it's completely safe to take and is better than TUDCA.

Other key ingredients include:

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle is one of the most commonly used plants for liver disease. Its active ingredient, silymarin, has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology found that silymarin can be beneficial in treating alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis B and C, and liver disease caused by toxins.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been found to protect the liver from damage and can help in the treatment of liver diseases. A study in the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry found that curcumin can modulate the progression of liver diseases.

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

Artichoke has been used for centuries as a liver tonic. It contains cynarin, which promotes the production of bile, a substance needed to digest fats and absorb nutrients. A study in the Journal of Dietary Supplements found that artichoke leaf extract can protect the liver from oxidative stress.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is a potent liver cleanser. It stimulates the liver to detoxify toxins. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that dandelion extract can protect the liver from hepatotoxicity.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicine used for liver protection. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Schisandra extract can protect the liver from damage.

Supplements to Avoid

Just as there are good supplements that we recommend, there are also some that you should avoid. 

One of them being is N2Guard.

N2Guard has a massive profile of ingredients, but the problem is that most of them are underdosed and it's expensive. 

You're better off buying TUDCA on it's own, and a multivitamin.

How To Use Liver Protection Supplements

The first day that you start your anabolic cycle is the first day you should be taking your liver protection supplement.

You can even start taking liver protection supplements before your anabolic cycles to ensure your organs are operating optimally.

Take your liver protection supplement from the beginning of the cycle until the end.

You can continue taking the liver protection supplement even during your post cycle and off cycles.

This will help optimize your organ health and will keep things running smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are your FAQ's answered...

What is the best time to take liver protection supplements?

The best time to take liver protection supplements is usually with a meal to enhance absorption.

However, always follow the instructions on the product label.

How can a liver protection supplement help during steroid cycles?

A liver protection supplement can help protect the liver from the hepatotoxic effects of steroids, support liver detoxification, reduce inflammation, and promote the regeneration of liver cells.

Are there any side effects of liver protection supplements?

Most liver protection supplements are well-tolerated when taken as directed.

However, some people may experience side effects like stomach upset, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Can liver protection supplements cause side effects?

While most liver protection supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, they can cause side effects in some people.

These may include digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, or stomach upset. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to certain ingredients.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

How long should I take liver protection supplements?

The duration of taking liver protection supplements can vary depending on the individual, the type of supplement, and the reason for taking it.

For those using it during a steroid cycle, it's typically recommended to use the supplement for the duration of the cycle.

However, always follow the instructions on the product label or consult with a healthcare professional.

Can I take liver protection supplements even if I'm not on a steroid cycle?

Yes, liver protection supplements can be beneficial even if you're not on a steroid cycle.

They can support overall liver health, help detoxify the liver, and protect it from other potential toxins. However, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Protect Your Health

Steroids can increase the risk for many issues and the liver often takes the most abuse during cycles.

This is why we recommend taking a supplement that contains research-backed ingredients at full dosages.

The best supplement for this is Defend by Huge Nutrition.

We challenge you to find something that matches its profile.

Almost everything else we found has had half the doses or ingredients, or both.

Bottom Line

Liver protection is an important aspect of any steroid cycle.

With the right liver protection supplement, you can help safeguard your liver health and ensure that you're able to continue pursuing your fitness goals safely.

Remember, your health is your wealth - don't compromise it for short-term gains.

Stay safe, stay healthy, and keep lifting!

Please note that while I try to provide accurate and up-to-date information, this article should not replace professional medical advice.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen or steroid cycle.

by Nader Qudimat

Forged by iron and cold steel, I'm Nader, a mid-30s natural bodybuilder. Once a 100lb skinny guy, I've transformed into a 200lb muscular athlete with over 15 years of lifting experience. Today, I leverage my transformation and extensive experience to guide countless individuals on their fitness journeys.

Click here to check out my 12 year transformation: Natural 12 Year Transformation

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