Protein bars, shakes and pre-workout mixes are often used to maximize results at the gym. The supplements are also associated with muscle dysmorphia, a study shows.

In a 2022 study, 36% of young males reported using protein powders and shakes, while 10% said they used other muscle-building substances such as creatine and growth hormones. In addition, 2.2% of young adult males reported using steroids.

A Canadian study, published Wednesday in the journal PLOS Mental Health, finds that young people who consume multiple muscle-building products are more likely to show symptoms of

A new study is linking the use of six muscle-building supplements to symptoms of body dysmorphia in teens. The study author found that substances like whey protein powder, creatine products and other supplements were often taken by teens trying to gain muscle.