Table of Contents
Protein bars, shakes and powders are becoming increasingly popular among adults, but many teens may be jumping on the bandwagon too.
Two in five parents say their teen has consumed protein supplements in the past year, according to the University of Michigan Health CS Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health. The trend was more common among teenage boys, who were also more likely to take protein supplements every day or most days, parents reported.
“Protein is part of a healthy diet, but it can be difficult for parents to determine if their child is getting the right amount,” says Sarah Clark, co-director of Mott Poll, MPH.
“Our survey shows that many teens use protein supplements, especially protein powders, to improve their athletic performance and build muscle.”
Use of protein supplements for muscle growth, sports
Parents of boys were more likely to say their teen consumed protein supplements to promote muscle growth and for athletic training, while girls seemed more likely to use them to replace a meal when they were busy or to help with a balanced diet.
About one in ten parents also reported that their teen used protein supplements to help with weight loss, which is more common among parents of teenage girls.
Before parents and teens turn to protein supplements, it’s helpful to think about what they want to achieve, Clark notes. In many cases, teens can get enough protein by eating a balanced diet. Consultation with the teen’s doctor or a nutritionist can provide insight into whether protein supplements may be helpful and, if so, advice on which products best suit the teen’s goals.
“Despite what some teens (and their parents or coaches) think, eating more protein than your body needs will not result in bigger or faster muscle growth,” she said. “Instead, it is helpful to consume the recommended amount of protein throughout the day, with each meal and snack.”
Choose wisely
When busy teens have little time to eat, well-meaning parents can replace a meal with what they think is a healthy alternative. However, parents should not assume that products labeled as high in protein are healthy options.
“Many protein shakes and bars contain excessive amounts of added sugar and caffeine that are unhealthy for teens,” Clark said. “Parents should help teens read the labels of protein supplements and choose healthy options, such as those that contain fiber, with little or no added sugar.”
“Relying on protein shakes and bars may not provide the necessary vitamins, minerals and fiber that teens need; they are not intended to replace balanced meals.”
Check whether teenagers are getting enough protein
Many parents think their teenagers’ protein intake is inadequate, with almost one in five saying their teenager is not getting enough, according to the nationally representative report, which included responses from 989 parents of teenagers aged 13 to 17 surveyed in August questioned.
“Protein is an essential part of our diet because it helps build muscle, regulate hormones and support immune health,” Clark said.
The optimal amount of protein for each individual will vary depending on age, gender, weight and level of physical activity, says Clark, and it can be challenging for parents to judge whether their teen is getting the right amount.
Parents should consider a strategy of offering at least one source of protein at every meal and encourage teens to try a variety of protein-rich foods, including eggs, nuts, fish, lean meats, lentils and dairy products, she says.
“Teens can generally get enough protein through a well-balanced diet,” Clark said. “There may be situations where teens don’t eat many foods with protein. In these cases, parents can sometimes consider protein shakes or protein bars as part of a plan to increase their teens’ protein intake.”
Modeling a balanced diet
Adults’ attitudes and behaviors toward protein supplements can also affect children.
High-protein, low-carb diets are popular with many adults, and more than half of parents also think a high-protein diet is healthy for their teens. However, high-protein diets are generally not recommended for them as they risk missing out on other essential nutrients, including carbohydrates.
One in three parents also said they use protein supplements themselves; these parents were more likely to report that their teen also used them.
Parents should take the same approach to themselves as they do to their teen, Clark says. In general, it is better to get enough protein through a well-balanced diet, and if protein supplements are being considered, they should choose products that also contain fiber and other nutrients, without added sugar or caffeine.
Quote: National Survey: Many Teens Use Protein Supplements for Muscle Growth and Sports Performance (2024, October 21) Retrieved October 21, 2024 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-10-national-poll-teens-protein-supplements. html
This document is copyrighted. Except for fair dealing purposes for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without written permission. The content is provided for informational purposes only.