I'm 12 and I want to try protein powder - should I?
A health journalist explores the growing trend of pre-teens and teenagers using protein powder supplements. Experts and parents are debating whether these products are necessary or safe for young people who are already eating a balanced diet.
Why it matters
The rise of high-protein marketing targeting younger demographics highlights concerns about nutritional health and the influence of social media on adolescent body image.
Image caption, Louis, Otis and Ben all have differing opinions on whether teens should use protein powder
Twelve-year-old Ben is desperate to try protein powder but there's one hurdle: me, his mum.
"I've asked about 20 times and you just keep saying no!", he says, claiming it would make him "fitter and bigger" and that his male friends use it.
In recent years, there's been an explosion of products marketed as "high protein", including milk, yoghurt, breads, cereals, bars and powders.
Social media is flooded with adverts for various supplements, including protein powder.
As a health journalist, I'm sceptical and think at Ben's age he must be getting enough protein through his diet.
So, do experts think it's safe for pre-teens and teenagers or is a big, juicy steak just as good?
Image caption, In recent years, there has been an explosion of products marketed as "high protein"...
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in