{
  "id": 16494621,
  "title": "Protein shakes for teenagers: Good or bad idea?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/25/protein-shakes-for-teenagers-good-or-bad-idea",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-25T16:12:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "DW English (Top Stories)",
    "slug": "dw-english-top-stories",
    "url": "https://www.dw.com/en/protein-shakes-for-teenagers-good-or-bad-idea/a-79751929?maca=en-rss-en-top-1022-xml-mrss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Protein shakes, found in various forms like powdered drinks, snack bars, puddings, and breads, have become popular among teenagers. A 2024 University of Michigan survey revealed that nearly half of the 1,000 parents questioned stated their children aged 13 to 17 had consumed protein products in the past year. Boys were more likely to consume these products, often for sports or muscle-building, while girls used them to balance their diet or lose weight. Germany's fitness protein product market saw a 25% increase in retail revenue between 2024 and 2025. Proteins are essential for metabolism, tissue repair, and immune function. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) recommends an 0.8-gram protein intake per kilogram of body weight for healthy adults, increasing to 0.9 for teenagers and 1 gram for those over 65. Children aged one to four should have 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight. However, overconsumption of protein, particularly animal-based, can lead to kidney strain, early puberty, and weight gain in adolescents. Proteins are beneficial for athletes needing to maintain or build muscle, suggesting 1.2-2 grams per kilogram of body weight, depending on training intensity. Plant proteins, while containing fewer essential amino acids, provide additional fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Despite their convenience and potential benefits, protein powders and bars often contain additives and may lead to acne or excessive hunger suppression. Experts advise that athletes should optimize their diet instead of relying on supplements, as the body does not necessarily need protein-enriched food supplements for high physical strain.",
  "summary": "Protein products are marketed as a way of building muscle and losing weight — and they're very popular with young people. They also claim to promote healthy growth in children. Is this true? How much protein is healthy?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": "https://urgent.news/ill/16494621.png",
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}