What are anabolic steroids primarily known to do?

Anabolic steroids are primarily known to build tissue, particularly muscle tissue. They are synthetic derivatives of testosterone that promote an increase in muscle size and strength by enhancing protein synthesis within cells. This muscle-building effect makes them appealing to athletes and bodybuilders who aim to improve their performance and physique.

The mechanism involves increasing nitrogen retention in the muscles, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. By facilitating more efficient recovery after intense workouts and allowing for increased training intensity, anabolic steroids contribute significantly to muscle hypertrophy and overall body composition improvements, making them a controversial substance in sports and fitness environments.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the primary effects of anabolic steroids. Increasing body fat or slowing down growth are not associated with their intended purpose or mechanism of action, and while they may affect endurance in various contexts, anabolic steroids are generally not recognized for reducing muscle endurance. Instead, they’re typically credited with increasing strength and performance in many athletes.