A recent study from the University of Toronto has revealed critical insights into the use of muscle-building supplements (such as whey protein and creatine) among adolescents and young adults in Canada. The research, published today, provides a comprehensive analysis of the prevalence, influences, and associated risks of muscle-building supplement use, highlighting important implications for healthcare, public health, and policy-making professionals. Analyzing data 912 participants from the Canadian Study of Adolescent Health Behaviors, a national study focused on the mental, social, and behavioral health of individuals16 to 30 years old, the study found that close to 60% of the respondents reported using protein bars and just over half reported using whey protein powders or protein shakes which were the most commonly used muscle-building supplement.
Boys and men reported higher usage rates compared to girls, women, and transgender/gender expansive (TGE) participants. The boys and men in our study reported using an average of three muscle-building supplements in the past 12 months. This figure truly exemplifies the pervasiveness of boys and men attempting to adhere to the muscular body ideal.
" Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, lead author on the study Nearly half of the participants cited social media influencers as the primary influence on their supplement use, while fitness communities and friends also played significant roles. Over two-thirds of the participants reported seeking i.
