Being fit and consuming various types of crash diets has become a lifestyle choice for many individuals. The key players involved in this fitness industry, such as bodybuilders, have been facing issues related to sudden heart failure and are not able to pinpoint the root causes behind such tragic events. While bodybuilding helps to maintain discipline and improves physical strength, it can sometimes lead to unintended consequences if the body has been overworked over time. 

Here are the main contributors that increase susceptibility for cardiac arrest. 

• Increased usage of steroids without proper medical intervention can develop symptoms of high blood   pressure.
             
                                      
• Getting involved in intense workouts without taking breaks in between exercises can cause body burnout and dehydration and affect heart health. 
  
• Being neglectful about minor health issues such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and constant sweating can trigger unavoidable long-term complications. 
• Many bodybuilders might be suffering from structural heart problems such as irregular heart rhythms and muscle tightness without their awareness. 

Recent Cases of Cardiac Arrest in Bodybuilders 

• A gym trainer and bodybuilder who was 25 years old died as he had a regular intake of steroids and other health supplements during the preparation for national-level competitions. 
• Another bodybuilder died due to cardiac arrest as he was involved in intense physical activity. 
• A fitness instructor and bodybuilder who was 31 years old died of a heart attack as he was suffering from acute illness and was a former substance user. 

Safety measures that can be adopted by bodybuilders 

• Bodybuilders should undergo regular health checkups, especially related to cardiovascular issues, such as echocardiograms for examining heart structure, checking blood pressure levels, and taking tests for cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 
  
• They should consume food that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber content with reduced caffeine consumption or pre-workout supplements.
• Consuming steroids under medical supervision with regular mentoring, being involved in post-cycle therapy for restoring hormonal imbalance, and staying hydrated between multiple workout sessions. 
  
• Bodybuilders should make a proper daily schedule for organized training with short breaks in between to prevent overtraining syndrome. 
  
  
• Participating in meditation, breathing exercises, and hobbies can help to reduce cortisol levels that are associated with stress hormones. 
• Bodybuilders should be aware of their family health history to check for genetic predispositions and include aerobic exercise in their routine for lowering the risks of arrhythmias and plaque buildup. 

Conclusion 

Bodybuilding is considered valuable for maintaining discipline and becoming physically active. It can also be harmful for one’s health if proper precautions have not been followed, such as structured training routines, balanced nutrition, constant medical attention, and incorporating different exercises in training sessions. Bodybuilders can perform well in a competitive environment by making positive changes in their daily lives and seeking medical expertise from qualified professionals like Dr. Ritesh Acharya and Dr. Deepak Kumar Parhi.