Health Experts Raise Concerns Over Rising Creatine Use Among U.S. Teens
Health experts in the U.S. are observing a notable increase in creatine use among teenagers, particularly males, who are taking the muscle-building supplement to enhance their appearance and fitness. Creatine is a naturally occurring compound that supports muscle growth and recovery and is readily available without a prescription in various retail outlets. While generally considered safe for adults at appropriate dosages, some pediatricians and health professionals are expressing concerns regarding its use by adolescents due to a lack of specific studies on its safety for this age group. Dr. Mohammed Hassan-Ali, a pediatrician, noted an increase in preteen and teenage patients using creatine, sometimes exceeding recommended amounts and neglecting proper hydration, leading to issues like dizziness and fainting. This trend is partly attributed to social media influences and unrealistic body image expectations, with some teens seeking 'shortcuts' for quick performance and appearance gains, potentially leading...