Middletown, DE
A 42-year-old female asked:
My son is 14 years old. he weighs 115lbs. he has been working out and wants to drink protein shakes. is this safe for him? if so, what amount?
3 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Thomas Nameyanswered
Rheumatology 50 years experience
100g of protein per : No benefits accrue beyond 2g per 2.2lbs of body weight, even in professional athletes. No harm if more is ingested, but protein nutritional supplements are expensive. I cannot give a better answer without knowing his weight and height!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Justin Richanswered
Pediatrics 20 years experience
Yes : Though there isn't much reliable research on whey (protein) powder in kids, it is generally accepted as safe. Because of this though, a proper daily amount is difficult to judge. Instead, i usually recommend using one's diet to add protein to the body: milk, lean meats, eggs, and peanut butter are good sources. Kudos for encouraging exercise!
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Mark Diamondanswered
Pediatrics 48 years experience
No: I disagree with my collegues.As pointed out, there is no evidence of any benefit and altho rare, there can be serious side effects such as heart trouble, hypertension, kidney problems, and strokes.And these do occur! why take a chance.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Thomas Namey commented
Rheumatology 50 years experience
Wrong! Show me the references. Not on kidney failure patient or liver patient, with which I agree. Send me them in a message, and I will\ send you the volumes of science supporting increased protein intake. What do you think the Inuit an Eskimo have lived on for 10,000s of thousands a year? Florida organge juice and bread? No, protein and fat alone!
Jul 6, 2013
Dr. Mark Diamond commented
Pediatrics 48 years experience
Provided original answer
This patient is a 14 year old growing child. I point out that there is no eveidence supporting the benefit of this stuff.The attitude of the need for "supplementation " is troubling. The risk factors, I will send to you.And the eskimo reference is silly implying no need for other factors such as vitamins,carbs etc
Jul 6, 2013
Last updated Apr 9, 2016
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