The Connection Between Male Teens, Eating Disorders, And Supplements

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A research study finds approximately 18 percent of male teens "have extreme concerns about their weight and physique." This increases the risk that they will engage in risky behaviors to achieve the "perfect body."

Experts explain physicians may not notice eating disorders in males because male physique goals differ from those of young women. In the past, the emphasis on eating disorders focused on young women, so parents may not realize they should be concerned about "eating disorders and an excessive focus on weight and shape in their sons." 

Researchers found over nine percent of male respondents reported having major concerns about their muscularity. Almost 2.5 percent of them said they "used supplements, anabolic steroids or human growth hormone to get their desired physique."

The study also showed young men who used products to improve their physique were more likely to be involved in drugs and frequent binge drinking. "Study: Eating Disorders In Male Teens Are More Common," CBS Atlanta (Nov. 6, 2013).

According to a report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1.2 percent of eighth graders in the U.S. have used steroids; 1.3 percent of tenth graders, and 1.8 percent of twelfth graders have also used steroids.

According to one report, human growth hormone (HGH) "appears to be becoming the preferred performance-enhancer among South Florida teens." They prefer the hormone to steroids perhaps "because it is believed to help them recover from injuries and have fewer noticeable side effects."

Another report explained that "[c]reatine and other dietary supplements are gaining popularity." This may be because of manufacturers' claims that supplements "can build muscles and improve strength and stamina, without the side effects of steroids." However, these dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, or held to the same strict standards, as drugs are.

Parents and caring adults need to know the negative side effects to help detect if their sons are using steroids, human growth hormone, or dietary supplements.  

To protect a young person’s health, honest and open conversations can help parents understand the pressures their sons face, and the boys can learn the facts surrounding the risks associated with using these drugs. In addition, this is an opportunity to discuss how society’s beliefs regarding masculinity can lead to a young man’s unrealistic expectations and possibly dangerous activities to achieve the “perfect” physique.

If you suspect your child is abusing body-enhancing substances, a good place to seek advice is your child’s healthcare provider.

There are many dangerous side effects of steroids, HGH, and supplements. The following list is not exhaustive:

• Baldness
• Breast development
• Painful erections
• Testicle shrinking and loss of function
• Reduced sperm count or infertility
• Increased prostate cancer risk
• Acne
• Jaundice
• Fluid retention
• Stunted growth
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Mood swings; hostility and aggressive behavior
• Muscle, nerve, or joint pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Numbness and tingling of skin
• Abnormal hair growth
• Acromegaly (a person's face and/or hands grow abnormally large)
• Development of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer
• Weight gain
• Muscle cramps, strains, and pulls
• Diarrhea; stomach upset
• Dizziness
• High blood pressure
• Liver dysfunction
• Kidney damage

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