More teens are turning to protein supplements.
Nutritionists say protein shakes, bars, and powders are not always a bad thing, but they’re not a great substitution for the real thing.
University of Michigan C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital Co-Director Sarah Clark says a new poll from the hospital finds two in five parents say their teen consumed protein supplements in the past year.
“We see almost half of the parents of boys and about a third of the parents of teen girls reporting protein supplements and a little bit of a difference in why they’re using those protein supplements also,” Clark said.
Clark says boys use protein supplements to boost muscle growth. Girls use them to replace a meal.
Clark says parents should help teens choose healthy options, like those that contain fiber and with little or no added sugar.
