What does endocrinology have to do with
exercise and sport?

Many people immediately think of doping when they think of hormones and sport. And indeed, most substances used in doping are hormones or their derivatives.

Hormones intervene in almost all metabolic processes in the organism and are therefore involved in many mutually communicating control circuits. In the event of a hormone deficiency due to illness, the administration of hormones is important, often vital. However, if hormones are administered in quantities that the organism does not need, side effects always occur. Doping should be strictly rejected, not only because of the distortion of performance associated with doping, but especially because of the side effects on the body that are always associated with doping!

On the other hand exercise especially at higher intensities, has a very significant influence on metabolism and hormones. Who should come closer to understanding the complex interrelationships than an endocrinologist whose “family circumstances” (his daughter is a sports scientist) have brought him into close contact with the subject.