A new survey of Canadian pediatric specialists has raised red flags about adolescents using workout substances — from protein powders to steroids — with some cases serious enough to require medical attention.
Out of 857 pediatric specialists surveyed, 17 per cent said they had treated adolescents in the past year for health problems linked to dietary supplements or performance-enhancing drugs. In total, 55 patients were reported, most of them boys aged 13 to 15, though nearly a third were as young as 10 to 12.
Researchers say substances such as whey protein, creatine and pre-workout mixes, along with illegal anabolic steroids, are being used more frequently by adolescents looking to build muscle or boost sports performance.
Dr. Kyle Ganson, co-lead researcher and assistant professor at the University of Toronto, said pediatricians reported kidney and gastrointestinal issues among their patients. While most recovered, about 20 cases involved lasting health problems or uncertain outcomes.
The study also revealed a gap in knowledge: more than half of pediatric specialists admitted they don’t routinely screen for supplement use, and over a quarter said they have no knowledge of such substances.
Ganson stressed the need for parents and health-care providers to understand the products young people are exposed to — often promoted by social media influencers or peers — and to help ensure safe use when possible.
“Health-care providers need to be able to talk about these supplements and really know about them — how they’re marketed and why kids are drawn to them,” he said. He added that while protein powders and creatine may be managed safely, any consideration of steroids or other drugs requires immediate intervention to prevent serious harm.
The survey was conducted through the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program of the Canadian Paediatric Society.