Experts advise against protein powder use for teenagers

Health experts advise that children and teenagers can obtain all necessary protein through a balanced diet of whole foods, making supplements like protein powder unnecessary for most young people.

Registered dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine notes that while protein shakes can benefit high-level athletes or those with specific allergies, they should not replace a healthy diet. She warns that the protein powder market is not as strictly regulated as medicines, meaning some products may contain high levels of added sugar, artificial ingredients, or hidden stimulants. Potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea.

Dr. Ramnik Mathur, a consultant paediatrician, emphasizes that replacing meals with shakes risks the loss of vital micronutrients like zinc, calcium, and magnesium. This concern is particularly relevant for teenage girls, who must ensure adequate intake of iron and calcium. The discussion comes amid a surge in ‘high protein’ marketing across social media and supermarkets, which can create social pressure among pre-teens to use supplements to achieve specific physical results.