The University of Toronto’s recent study, a comprehensive exploration of the prevalence, influences, and associated risks of muscle-building supplements among adolescents and young adults in Canada, has just been published. This research, with significant implications for healthcare, public health, and policy professionals, sheds light on the widespread use of these supplements.
Based on data from 912 participants in the Canadian Study of Adolescent Health Behaviors, the study focused on individuals aged 16 to 30. Nearly 60% reported using protein bars; just over half used whey protein powders or shakes, the most popular supplements. Usage rates were higher among boys and men compared to girls, women, and transgender/gender expansive individuals.
Lead author Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, highlighted that boys and men in the study used an average of three muscle-building supplements in the past year, illustrating a widespread pursuit of the muscular body ideal.
Nearly half of the participants’ primary influencers were social media influencers, while fitness communities and friends also played significant roles. Over two-thirds sought information online, with gender differences in information sources; girls and women tended to consult healthcare professionals, whereas boys and men relied more on online forums like Reddit and YouTube.
Ganson emphasised the importance of healthcare and policy professionals understanding where young people obtain information on muscle-building supplements. Given weak regulations in Canada and minimal content restrictions on social media platforms, this could influence perceptions of safety and effectiveness.
Only 9.8% of participants considered their supplement use problematic, though transgender/gender expansive individuals perceived higher levels of concern compared to cisgender participants. The study also found that nearly two-thirds of users experienced symptoms such as fatigue, digestive issues, and cardiovascular problems, yet a significant majority did not seek medical help.
While the study did not confirm causation between supplement use and symptoms, it highlighted health concerns that young people should be aware of. Ganson stressed the need for healthcare providers to be informed about muscle-building supplements and to routinely discuss their use with adolescents and young adults, mainly focusing on harm reduction and risk awareness.
The findings underscored the necessity for public health initiatives to educate about the potential dangers of muscle-building supplements, especially among transgender/gender expansive and sexual minority individuals who reported higher symptom rates. To mitigate potential harms, the authors recommended stronger regulations on selling and advertising these supplements, particularly on social media platforms.”
More information: Kyle T. Ganson et al, Describing use of muscle-building supplements among adolescents and young adults in Canada, Performance Enhancement & Health. DOI: 10.1016/j.peh.2024.100284
Journal information: Performance Enhancement & Health Provided by University of Toronto
