Use of protein, creatine supplements could be linked to body issues, new study shows

A new study shows young Canadians are using performance-enhancing drugs and substances to increase muscle mass and athleticism, which can cause adverse mental and physical health effects.

The use of legal performance-enhancing drugs and substances is having adverse mental and sometimes physical health effects on young people in Canada, a new study shows.

Some concerning side effects on young people include mental health issues like eating disorders and physical side effects like hospitalization, the study published in the National Library of Medicine in December 2022 reads.

In some instances, the legal appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs (APEDs) have been contaminated with stimulants or are mislabelled, the study reads, which can cause further adverse effects.

The study is one of the first of its kind in Canada to document how prevalent the use of muscle-building or weight-loss supplements and substances are among youth. Using previous research from the United States, this study was able to draw connections between the increased use of legal supplements and the impacts younger Canadians could experience.

Knowing the risks associated with APEDs and the lack of awareness, one expert is advocating to Health Canada for stricter regulations.

APEDs are defined as any drug or substance used to "improve not only athletic appearance and performance but also cognitive and sexual performance."

In a 12-month period, a majority of young Canadians reported using substances such as caffeine, protein bars, whey protein powder and creatine monohydrate.