I'm 12 and want to try protein powder
A health journalist explores the growing trend of pre-teens and teenagers using protein powder supplements. The article balances the perspectives of young users, concerned parents, and the nutritional reality that a balanced diet is usually sufficient for adolescents.
Why it matters
As protein-fortified products become ubiquitous, parents and health experts are increasingly concerned about the necessity and safety of supplements for developing bodies.
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"...
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