Do teenagers need protein supplements?

Many teenagers today have been using protein supplements in the form of powders and shakes. Health experts have given their views on this issue.

Recently, researchers from the CS Mott Children's Hospital at the University of Michigan Health (USA) surveyed nearly 1,000 adults with children aged 13-17 nationwide to find out their protein consumption habits. The results showed that 41% of parents said their children had used protein supplements in the past year. Supplements included protein bars (29%), shakes (23%) and protein powders (15%). Of these, about a quarter admitted that their children - mostly boys - used protein supplements almost every day, according to Health .

Athletes may take protein supplements for muscle recovery needs.

The Reason Behind the Protein “Explosion”

Overall, teens believe protein is closely linked to appearance, performance, and overall health. But the survey found that the reasons teens turn to protein tend to be gender-related.

For example, about 55% of parents of boys said their children used supplements to build muscle or improve athletic performance. Only 18% of parents of girls said they used supplements for the same purpose. On the other hand, 34% of parents of girls said their children used supplements to replace meals when they were too busy, to lose weight, or to help their diet be healthier. Meanwhile, only 18% of parents of boys cited the same reason.

“Protein supplements have become increasingly popular, especially over the past three decades,” Dana Ellis Hunnes, PhD, a senior clinical nutritionist at UCLA Health, told Health . “In the early 2000s, there were some protein supplements that were primarily used by athletes, but now they’re everywhere.”

Another influence is social media platforms like TikTok, where fitness and nutrition influencers sometimes encourage viewers to consume protein far beyond the recommended amount.

“A small number of parents say social media is the reason their kids want to consume more protein. In reality, that number is probably higher,” said Sarah J. Clark, MD, co-director of the CS Mott Children’s Health Survey.

Natural protein from daily foods, especially chicken, is sufficient for the nutritional needs of adolescents.

Excess protein… is not beneficial!

Protein is a macronutrient - or something we need in large amounts - that helps build muscle and bone, and supports immune function, cell repair, and more.

Although specific daily protein needs depend on factors such as height, weight, and activity level, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adolescents ages 11 to 14 consume 0.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day. This requirement decreases as adolescents get older.

However, supplements aren't always the best choice, even though they're often known to be nutritious. Protein bars can have sugar levels comparable to those of a candy bar, says Clark; some protein supplements may also contain herbal ingredients, caffeine, or other stimulants.

Teens can easily meet their daily protein needs through their regular diet. Foods such as meat (especially chicken), low-fat milk, yogurt, and peanut butter are all good sources of protein, and provide a variety of vitamins and minerals.

“For most teens, there is no good reason to take supplements just to get more protein. Getting more protein than your body can use will not do you any good. It won’t make you faster, stronger, or better at sports, it will just turn into fat,” explains Clark.

However, expert Clark also admits that supplements can be useful for some people, such as those who are underweight or overly active.

“Protein supplements may be appropriate for teens who regularly participate in vigorous physical activity, such as high school swimmers who train frequently, soccer players who lift weights multiple times per week, or triathletes,” says Clark. “For these teens, adding protein powder to smoothies or milk can help with muscle recovery.”

Overall, there’s no rule that says teens should avoid protein supplements, but it’s best to consult with a health care professional to determine whether they’re necessary. But it’s important to remember that “you can achieve many of your health goals with quality foods,” Clark says.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thanh-thieu-nien-co-can-dung-thuc-pham-bo-sung-protein-185241031202423073.htm