New guidelines for doctors address risks of muscle-building supplements in youth
Healthcare professionals now have comprehensive guidance to assess and mitigate potential harm from muscle-building dietary supplements used by adolescents and young adults, according to a recent publication in the Journal of Adolescent Health.
The newly published guidelines [1] aim to address the significant lack of professional guidance for healthcare providers in assessing and managing risks associated with muscle-building dietary supplements commonly used by young people, particularly males. These supplements, which include products such as whey protein and creatine monohydrate, are intended to enhance muscle mass, strength, and athletic performance.
Kyle T. Ganson, PhD, MSW, assistant professor and lead author of the guidance, emphasises the importance of this initiative: “Given the risks involved, we highly recommend that all health and mental health care professionals ask their adolescent and young adult clients about muscle-building supplement use.”
Comprehensive assessment strategies
The guidelines advocate for a thorough biopsychosocial assessment when muscle-building supplement use is reported. This includes evaluating the type, frequency, dose, and method of supplement use, as well as understanding the client’s motivations and knowledge about the supplements.
Ganson stresses the importance of a holistic approach: “It is critical to assess for other behaviours aimed at altering appearance, weight, shape, strength, and performance, as well as body image issues and the presence of any eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, or muscle dysmorphia.”
Harm reduction approach
A key aspect of the guidelines is the emphasis on harm reduction. This approach prioritises open communication, understanding motivations, and providing psychoeducation. The goal is to reduce negative effects associated with muscle-building supplement use while acknowledging that complete abstinence may not be realistic for all clients.
Addressing anabolic-androgenic steroid use
The guidelines also highlight the need to assess for potential or current use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), given the established connection between muscle-building supplement use and future AAS use. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to educate clients on the potential harms of AAS and provide strategies to reduce associated risks.
Ongoing monitoring and support
The authors emphasise the importance of continuous monitoring and support. “Identifying adverse effects on physical, psychological, and social health, and ongoing monitoring, should be part of routine practice,” Ganson notes.
These comprehensive guidelines represent a significant step forward in addressing the potential risks associated with muscle-building supplement use among young people. By providing healthcare professionals with detailed strategies for assessment and harm reduction, the authors hope to improve the overall health and well-being of adolescents and young adults engaging in these practices.
Reference:
- Ganson, K. T., et al. (2024). Adolescent and Young Adult Use of Muscle-Building Dietary Supplements: Guidance for Assessment and Harm Reduction Approaches to Mitigate Risks. Journal of Adolescent Health.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.05.027
