Youth and Supplements: Miracle or Trend?

#DietarySupplements  #ChildNutrition  #TeenHealth  #Probiotics  #VitaminsAndMinerals

Dietary supplements are increasingly consumed by children and adolescents. Their primary purpose is to meet specific needs related to growth, immune system support, or improved physical performance. They are also used to compensate for nutritional deficiencies caused by unbalanced diets or dietary restrictions.

However, their use is not without limitations. When not supervised by healthcare professionals, these products can lead to overdoses, side effects such as gastrointestinal disorders or allergic reactions, and interactions with other medical treatments. Moreover, their growing popularity may result in excessive or inappropriate use, influenced by misconceptions or unverified recommendations.

This study examines the use of dietary supplements among young people, exploring their motivations, specific uses, and the perceptions of both parents and adolescents. It also highlights the main associated risks and provides recommendations for safe and effective use.  

Dietary Supplements: How Are They Used by Young People?

This analysis is based on studies conducted between 2000 and 2023, exploring dietary supplement use among young people. Motivations vary by age.

Research shows that in children, supplements are primarily used to strengthen immunity and support growth, with a strong preference for multivitamins, iron, and calcium. Adolescents favor proteins, amino acids, and energy drinks, often to increase muscle mass or achieve an "ideal body." These choices reflect specific physiological needs but are also influenced by cultural and social factors.

Studies also reveal that more than half of children consuming supplements do so without medical prescription. This decision is often influenced by parents, friends, or advertising. The most commonly used supplements include vitamins and minerals. While essential for addressing certain deficiencies, excessive consumption can lead to toxicity (e.g., vitamin D or iron). Proteins and amino acids, particularly popular among adolescent athletes, may provide muscle benefits. However, unsupervised use can cause nutritional imbalances. Probiotics, known for their role in treating diarrhea and boosting immunity, require specific strains to ensure effectiveness. Melatonin, often taken for sleep disorders, still lacks sufficient evidence regarding its long-term effects.  

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Boost or Risk: Should Dietary Supplements Be Regulated?

Dietary supplements help bridge nutritional gaps and support growth. In children, they strengthen immunity and development. In adolescents, they are often consumed to enhance athletic performance or physical appearance. However, their consumption, frequently influenced by advertising, often occurs without medical supervision. This increases the risks of overdoses, side effects, and interactions with other treatments, especially given the lack of regulation in their manufacturing and distribution.

This study explored the motivations and consumption habits of dietary supplements among children and adolescents. It also assessed their potential benefits, risks, and the importance of a supervised approach to ensure their effectiveness while minimizing dangers.

Dietary supplements can provide significant benefits in specific situations, such as proven deficiencies or increased nutritional needs due to growth or physical activity. However, their widespread and often poorly supervised use exposes young people to unnecessary risks. Medical supervision and family education on their use are essential to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

Given the heterogeneous nature of available studies, comparisons and conclusions remain challenging. Furthermore, the long-term effects of dietary supplements and their interactions with other treatments remain poorly documented. Additional research is needed to define optimal dosages, identify at-risk groups, and develop appropriate guidelines. Educational campaigns and stricter control over production and distribution could ensure safer and more effective use among young people.  

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