In the latest issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health, there is an important commentary by Kyle Ganson (University of Toronto) and Jason Nagata (University of California, San Francisco) titled "Adolescent and Young Adult Use of Muscle-Building Dietary Supplements: Guidance for Assessment and Harm Reduction Approaches to Mitigate Risks".
This commentary is particularly valuable for two reasons: 1) it serves as an critical reminder of the prevalent use of muscle-building supplements among adolescents and young adults, and 2) it outlines effective strategies for healthcare professionals to mitigate the associated risks.
Here are some key takeaways that I find particularly relevant for my own practice:
High Prevalence of Supplement Use: Muscle-building supplements, such as protein powders and creatine, are widely used among adolescents and young adults.
Body Image Pressures: The use of these supplements is often driven by societal pressures to achieve a muscular and lean body ideal.
Routine Assessment: Healthcare professionals should consider routinely inquiring about supplement use with all adolescent and young adult clients.
Harm-Reduction Approach: A harm-reduction strategy should include open communication, understanding the client's motivations, providing psychoeducation, offering ongoing monitoring and treatment, and mitigating any adverse effects.
Dietary Assessment: It's essential to evaluate the client's current dietary intake as part of this approach.
Body Image and Behavior Assessment: Given the link between supplement use and body image concerns, it's crucial to assess for other behaviors aimed at altering weight, shape, and performance.
Steroid Use Inquiry: Finally, assess for current or past anabolic androgenic steroid use, as there's a known connection between steroid use and muscle-building supplements.
