Young adults who use muscle-building supplements more likely to have body image issues

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2025-02-20 06:00

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International scientists say young adults who use muscle-building supplements are more likely to have symptoms of muscle dysphoria, a form of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) that makes people obsess over their muscularity and leanness. The team investigated health data on 2,731 young Canadians looking for links between the use of six types of muscle-building supplements - amino acids/branched-chain amino acids, creatine monohydrate, pre-workout drinks or powders, protein bars, weight/mass gainers, and whey protein shakes or powders - and symptoms of muscle dysphoria. They found use of all six muscle-building supplements, and using a greater number of supplements, were linked with having more symptoms of muscle dysmorphia, and a higher likelihood of meeting the clinical cut-off for muscle dysmorphia. The link was similarly strong in male and female participants, the authors say, although they note that supplement use is more common among men and boys.