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Pre-gym supplement use and body image concerns -

In some adolescents and young adults, protein shakes, pre-workout mixes, and other supplements may be connected to a body image disorder, according to new research.

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Linking supplements to muscle dysmorphia -

According to the lead study author, Dr. Kyle Ganson, assistant professor in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at the University of Toronto, there are six types of dietary supplements intended for muscle building that were associated with symptoms of muscle dysmorphia.

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Common supplements used for muscle building -

Included were two commonly used supplements; whey protein powder and creatine.

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Stronger association with weight and mass gainers -

The study was published in the PLOS Mental Health journal and showed an association that was especially strong between supplements for gaining weight or mass with symptoms like excessive gym time or obsessing over food intake.

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Young adults and supplement use -

The study team analyzed data from 2,731 participants who were between 16 and 30 years old, who took part in the Canadian Study of Adolescent Health Behaviors. This study "focuses on gathering information about disordered eating, muscle-building habits, body image, and social health."

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Assessing symptoms of muscle dysmorphia -

According to the study, the Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder Inventory was used to assess participants' reports of their supplement used compared to their symptoms of muscle dysmorphia.

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Observational nature of the study -

Since the study is only observational, it's challenging to say whether supplement use increases symptoms of muscle dysmorphia or if those individuals who already have muscle dysmorphia are more likely to take supplements.

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Public awareness about supplement risks -

The study found that, though younger people might not be taking harmful anabolic steroids, they might use other substances to treat muscle dysmorphia.

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Misconceptions about supplement safety -

Some people think that supplements are inherently safe, however, that's not always true.

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Understanding muscle dysmorphia -

A subset of body dysmorphic disorder, muscle dysmorphia is when a person is preoccupied with an imagined defect in their appearance or body.

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Psychological impact of muscle dysmorphia -

If someone is experiencing muscle dysmorphia, then they often will have challenges in their social lives and can even fall victim to emotional distress.

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Distorted body perception and emotional distress -

Unfortunately, even if someone with muscle dysmorphia reaches their ideal image, the distress may remain. There is a difference between what they see in the mirror versus what you see when you look at them.

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Warning signs of muscle dysmorphia -

Some additional warning signs include having a rigid workout schedule, emotional distress, and challenges completing expectations like schoolwork.

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Social withdrawal and body exposure avoidance -

Someone with muscle dysmorphia might avoid body exposure that is considered "socially normal" such as taking your shirt off when at the beach. Social gatherings might be skipped due to their feelings surrounding their appearance.

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Prevalence of supplement and steroid use -

A June 2022 study said that "2.2% of young adult males report using steroids, 36.3% report using protein powders and shakes, while 10.1% said they use other muscle-building substances such as creatine and growth hormone."

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Lack of regulation in the supplement industry -

The study co-author, Dr. Jason Nagata, said that "most supplements are readily available with little to no regulation."

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Hidden dangers in mislabeled supplements -

Also according to Dr. Jason Nagata, the FDA (The Food and Drug Administration) monitors health impacts and inspects manufacturing facilities but overall, lacks the authority to approve dietary supplements before they're released to the public.

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Legal supplements as a gateway to steroids -

Sometimes, muscle-building supplements, even legal ones, can be considered a gateway drug to steroids. It was previously found that young adults who used substances for muscle-building were actually three times more likely to engage in anabolic steroid use in seven years.

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Long-term risk of anabolic steroid use -

Supplements that are used before a workout often contain several cups of coffee worth of caffeine. Some people will "dry scoop" and consume the powder dry without first mixing it with water.

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Pre-workout supplements and caffeine content -

The powder is meant to be first diluted in water so this "dry scooping" can be extremely dangerous as it hits you with a high and potent dose of the product.

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Dangers of social media on muscle dysmorphia -

It's essential as a parent to teach your child to constantly challenge the information and ideals they encounter through social media. Teens especially are going through rapid changes to their bodies and will often compare themselves to others.

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Exposure -

Social media can expose younger children and teens to the seemingly positive impacts of muscle-building supplements. It can teach your child to compare themselves to a certain unattainable standard. 

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Are boys more impacted? -

Social media exposure to gym routines, weight lifting, and supplements and steroid use may be higher for boys who are often expected to become "big and strong."

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Idealized body images and social comparison -

Today, men's bodies are put on display more than ever, especially on social media via influencers. These can become a focal point of what a "perfect" body is.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy for muscle dysmorphia -

Cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT might help those individuals with muscle dysmorphia to examine their thought patterns and reframe different perceptions.

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Medications for treating underlying conditions -

On some occasions, medications, namely those used for anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, might be needed to help with muscle dysmorphia. Be sure to consult a doctor or medical professional first.

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Role of families and coaches in early detection -

Families, healthcare professionals, and even people like sports coaches and teachers need to help keep an eye out for muscle dysmorphia warning signs children might display.

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Importance of recognizing the disorder -

This disorder can be extremely challenging, especially for teenagers. If you think your child might be experiencing symptoms, consider consulting a doctor or therapist to explore further.

Sources: (CNN Health)

See also: Research highlights impressive health benefits of liver leaves 

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