Wondering if you can drink on PCT! It’s a very common trait found in bodybuilders is asking “Can I drink while on PCT?” And you’re having trouble deciding between the yes and no argument.

So, Is drinking on PCT really safe?

No, drinking while you are on PCT is not safe at all. Alcohol nullifies the effect PCT has on your body. Since the goal of PCT is to increase testosterone levels while decreasing estrogen. You really don’t want to consume alcohol to lower testosterone levels to imitate the effects of estrogen.

However, this is only the start. The causes still need to be the subject of numerous discussions. And also regarding the alternatives for your drink. So don’t go anywhere. 

Let’s jump into the details! 

What Happens If You Drink Alcohol While On PCT?

After a cycle of anabolic steroids or prohormones has ended, post cycle therapy is typically administered. Steroids can disrupt the level of natural body hormones. So, PCT comes in and fixes that, raising the testosterone level. The PCT cycle usually lasts from 4-6 weeks. 

 As long as you are on PCT, you are in a critical phase. So, if you are on alcohol, in a sense, you are taking poison.

Sometimes people can get sick when cutting sometimes. Due to ignorance of their health, it happens frequently to persons who are on PCT. Drinking is going to bring negative impacts on your body. Let’s find out what those impacts can harm you while you are on PCT. 

Lowers Testosterone

The male body’s glands that create testosterone can be damaged by alcohol. It negatively impacts the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which produce testosterone. Low testosterone is the cause of increased body fat, decreased muscle mass, and increased fatigue. 

That’s why doctors highly recommend not to consume alcohol when you are on testosterone. Over 90% of males with serious liver diseases have low testosterone.

Your situation could get worse as a consequence of more health problems and decreased testosterone production.

The symptoms are most likely to appear while you are on the PCT cycle after steroids. These symptoms can be mild but will definitely affect you physically and mentally. Such as

• Decreased sense of well-being.
• Depressed mood.
• Difficulties with concentration and memory.
• Erectile dysfunction.
• Fatigue.
• Low sex drive.
• Moodiness and irritability.
• Loss of muscular strength.

Increases Estrogen

Alcohol not only lowers your testosterone level but also increases your estrogen levels. Consuming alcohol can raise blood estrogen levels. 

High estrogen levels can cause a series of serious problems. It includes issues like fat gains, slow loss of muscle, erectile dysfunction, and a lot more. And you pretty sure want to steer clear of those. 

Alcohol can alter a woman’s body’s metabolism of estrogen. Higher estrogen levels can lead to a higher risk of breast cancer.

Raises Cortisol Levels

Do you know that Cortisol AKA the stress hormone is the mortal enemy of bodybuilders? 

Usually, it manages how your body uses carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. But it can also increase sugars in your bloodstream. And it can make you gain weight and can cause problems like anxiety, and heart disease.

There have some common signs that indicate your cortisol levels are high. Like being exhausted all the time, having acne problems, and losing hair. It also causes bruising and slows your wound healing, weak bones, and muscle.

Are you looking for some amazing ways that help you to lose fat fast? Let me help you to find some effective ways to lose extra fat. 

So, the bottom line is if you drink alcohol while you are on PCT. If you gain fat and lose muscle. Your hard effort up to this point has been wasted, right?

But what about drinking when you’re out with your friends and having a good time? Yeah, I can feel the pain. Well, you can alternate your drink. 

Then why not let me grab you a shot of non-alcoholic drink options? 

What Drink Can Replace Alcohol?

I know, there are no alternatives to getting drunk. But you really should not be drinking while you’re on post cycle therapy. Then what’s the solution here? 

Well, you are simply out having fun with your friends. Then I might just have some perfect alternatives. While having fun with others or by yourself, it could enhance your sociability and enjoyment. 

Here I’ve listed a few drinks I’d recommend to you.

1. Booze-free Beer

Non-alcoholic beer is probably the best choice if you are just hanging out with your friends. These beers only have 0.4-0.5% alcohol, which is harmless. Even if you drink a ton of them you won’t get drunk.

Here is a list of non-alcoholic beers you can find in your local store:

• Kehrwieder “Ü.nn” – India pale ale – (0.4%) 
• Infinite Session “Pale” -American pale ale – (0.5%) 
• Vandestreek “Playground IPA” – India pale ale – (0.5%) 
• Big Drop “Galactic” – Milk stout – (0.5%) 
• Brewdog “Nanny State” – Pale ale – (0.5%) 
• Nirvana Brewery “Hoppy Pale Ale” – Pale ale (0.5%)

2. Mocktails

Mocktails can be a great substitute if you are craving a sophisticated drink. There are countless recipes you can find based on your taste preferences. It’s particularly healthy, delicious and the perfect drink if you want to chill.

Here are some mocktails I think you should try:

Virgin piña colada  

Great alcohol-free party drink, made with mock rum syrup, pineapple juice, and coconut milk. It is also can be a great drink to replace alcohol. 

Spicy Watermelon Mint Agua Fresca

A refreshing, perfect drink for summertime. You only need watermelons. With roughly chopped jalapeños, and a bit of lime juice to make this awesomeness. 

Orange Moscow Mule Mocktail

Usually made with vodka and ginger beer. But in the mocktail version, the vodka is replaced by orange juice. 

Triple Berry Sparklers

Take frozen blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries and drown them in coconut water. You may also use chocolate milk and lemonade.

Cranberry-Lime Mocktail

The handmade cranberry syrup and fresh lime juice in this mocktail give it a tangy flavor. It is slightly sweet and completely refreshing.

3. Alcohol-Free Sparkling Wine

Non-alcoholic sparkling wine is organic, vegan, and contains low sugar. Organically made from grown grapes in vineyards, sparkling wines are delightful to drink. Prepared traditionally but without alcohol to preserve the wine quality and enjoyable drinking experience.

4. Alcohol-Free Gin

If you used to be a heavy drinker, alcohol-free “gin” can be the perfect choice for you. It might not be compatible with everyone’s taste. But still, it’s a good option. 

Made with botanicals that have been steam-distilled and brewed juniper distillate. Like coriander, cardamom, dried lime from Persia, lemon peel from Sicily, and liquor ice.

5. Kombucha

Want a drink that not only tastes adult but is also good for you? Kombucha is what you need in that case. Fermented, the natural light sparkling drink is usually made using black. Alternatives include microorganisms and green tea.

Fitness enthusiasts love it since it’s sugar-free and extremely healthful.

FAQs

Is it OK to drink while muscle building?

No. If you want to build some serious muscles, you should avoid drinking. As your body needs to consume dietary protein. Drinking alcohol slows or interferes with some signaling pathways that tell the body to grow muscle. So, drinking is not going to help you build muscle at all.

Can you drink beer and still build muscle?

No, it can’t help you to build muscles. As alcohol consumption decreases the testosterone level in your body. Therefore, it won’t aid in the faster development of your muscles.

Do elite athletes drink alcohol?

Yes. They enjoy a moderate amount of alcohol. It’s very common to drink among athletes. In respect of celebration, they used to consume alcohol. Without concerning its effect on performance and health. However, physical impacts may have negative effects on health issues and athletic performance.

What Percentage Of Athletes Drink Alcohol?

Studies have found that 80% of amateur athletes reported using alcohol in past. It may vary from time to time. But amateurs are very frequently used to drinking alcohol. Research shows that they enjoy drinks a lot more than non-athletes. 

End Note

So, now you know why actually people do not prefer drinking on PCT. I truly hope that I may help in your decision-making.

Say to yourself now why you’re giving up drinking temporarily. You don’t want to ruin the goal, that’s for sure right before you finish it. 

Let’s end the day right now. Post your inquiries in the comments section below if you have any. Till next time be gentle with yourself. 

Good luck!