Teen Steroid Use Drops, Creatine Popularity Soars

A Shift in Supplement Preferences

American teenagers are using anabolic steroids far less than they were 20 years ago, but creatine use has surged, according to a new study. Researchers at the University of Michigan analyzed data from over 370,000 teens.

Health news

Oral GLP‑1 Agent Elecoglipron Triggers Up to 12% Weight Loss in AdultsOceania Genomes Reveal Human Evolution SecretsChemo-Free Treatment Effective in Kids With Aggressive Blood CancerStress and Sleep Deprivation Alter Children's Brains

The study reveals a significant decline in steroid use among teens, from a peak in the late 1990s. Meanwhile, creatine use has risen sharply in recent years. The data was collected from a nationwide survey of 8th, 10th, and 12th graders.

Creatine is a popular supplement among athletes, used to boost muscle mass and enhance performance. The survey found that in 2017, around 2.5% of 12th graders reported using creatine, up from 1.7% in 2015. In contrast, steroid use has continued to decline, with only 0.6% of 12th graders reporting use in 2017.

The reasons behind the shift are not entirely clear, but experts speculate that increased awareness of steroid risks may be a factor. „Teens are more informed about the dangers of steroid use,”said a researcher. „Creatine, on the other hand, is often seen as a safer alternative.” Are Teens Making Informed Choices? While creatine is generally considered safe, long-term effects are not well understood. Some experts worry that teens may be using creatine without proper guidance. „There's a need for education on safe supplement use,”said an expert.

Frequently Asked Questions

The consequences of this trend remain to be seen. As creatine use continues to rise, it's essential to monitor its effects on teen health. With steroid use at historic lows, the focus is shifting to ensuring that teens make informed choices about supplements.

What is creatine used for? Creatine is a supplement used to boost muscle mass and enhance athletic performance. It's popular among athletes and bodybuilders.

Is creatine safe for teens? Teens should consult a doctor before using any supplement.

Why has steroid use declined among teens? Experts speculate that increased awareness of steroid risks may be a factor in the decline. Education and anti-steroid campaigns may have also played a role.