Excessive Workout Supplement Use: An Emerging Eating Disorder in Men?

[The Solution]

Excessive Workout Supplement Use: An Emerging Eating Disorder in Men?

Excessive Workout Supplement Use: An Emerging Eating Disorder in Men?

“These products have become an almost ubiquitous fixture in the pantries of young men across the country and can seemingly be purchased anywhere and everywhere — from grocery stores to college book stores,” said Richard Achiro, PhD, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, Los Angeles, who presented the research. “The marketing efforts, which are tailored to addressing underlying insecurities associated with masculinity, position these products perfectly as a ‘solution’ by which to fill a void felt by so many men in our culture.”

“Body-conscious men who are driven by psychological factors to attain a level of physical or masculine ‘perfection’ are prone to use these supplements and drugs in a manner that is excessive and which was demonstrated in this study to be a variant of disordered eating,” said Achiro. “As legal supplements become increasingly prevalent around the globe, it is all the more important to assess and treat the psychological causes and effects of excessive use of these drugs and supplements.”

 

[southern211]

Dam sounds pretty accurate

 

[kboxer7]

Excessive Workout Supplement Use: An Emerging Eating Disorder in Men?


“These products have become an almost ubiquitous fixture in the pantries of young men across the country and can seemingly be purchased anywhere and everywhere — from grocery stores to college book stores,” said Richard Achiro, PhD, California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, Los Angeles, who presented the research. “The marketing efforts, which are tailored to addressing underlying insecurities associated with masculinity, position these products perfectly as a ‘solution’ by which to fill a void felt by so many men in our culture.”

“Body-conscious men who are driven by psychological factors to attain a level of physical or masculine ‘perfection’ are prone to use these supplements and drugs in a manner that is excessive and which was demonstrated in this study to be a variant of disordered eating,” said Achiro. “As legal supplements become increasingly prevalent around the globe, it is all the more important to assess and treat the psychological causes and effects of excessive use of these drugs and supplements.”

Does make one think.

There is, dare I say, as much pressure for men to look like cover models as there is for women. It's just not discussed very often, and as men, there is this mindset that we are supposed to be "above" the same psychological distresses that women face with regards to the issue of body image.

 

[MidwestBeast]

It's only a problem if it doesn't work lol

But yeah, I can say I definitely have body image issues and have ever since I was a chubby kid around age 11 and up. But, I acknowledge it and try my best to work through it in a healthy fashion. I don't need supplements, but if they help me, then who cares? If you're not paying your rent instead and buying creatine, we have a problem. But yeah, not too surprising.

 

[nicksox15]

There is definitely pressure on men as portrayed by media. Look at most magazine covers, leading movie stars, etc. Most of the men are crazy ripped, perfect hairlines, etc. I don't think men have it as bad as women as we're not judged as harshly for our looks but it's there for sure

 

[AntM1564]

There is definitely pressure on men as portrayed by media. Look at most magazine covers, leading movie stars, etc. Most of the men are crazy ripped, perfect hairlines, etc. I don't think men have it as bad as women as we're not judged as harshly for our looks but it's there for sure

When I was student teaching a sociology class, this was part of our unit. I wanted the class to see that society does not only impact how women should look, but increasingly, how men should look and act. If you look at magazine ads, most of the men have medium length hair, dark hair, stubble, in shape, great jawline, etc.

 

[Quads_of_Stee]

Seems about right. If I stack X and Y together I get the results of both at once!

 

[john.patterson]

Great read. I completely agree what's said in this article. Its not as blatant and in your face as pressure on women, but its definitely a growing problem

 

[T-Bone]

Ha ha!. Great article/study. Sounds like the majority of AM members!.....I see things a bit differently than most. Most of the men portrayed are more feminine than masculine. My impression of bodybuilding is more of a fashion show for men. I mean men getting the entire body shaved, tanned and oiled up before going up on a stage to "pose" for people.....Sorry but that's just about as feminine as it gets. That just doesn't interest me in the least bit. Don't want to be part of that.

I know in these PC days that might "offend" some people so I guess I'll be PC and say no offense to anyone here who competes. If that's your thing, go for it. I know it takes a ton of hard work and dedicated eating and training to achieve that look bodybuilders want. You're all good guys/gals. This is just a difference of opinion.

 

[AntM1564]

Seems about right. If I stack X and Y together I get the results of both at once!

The more you stack the better the gains At least seems to be the logic of most people.

 

[ma70]

Agreed. I think I've fallen prey to excess supplement use. I've been trying to cut back recently

 

[celc5]

Subbed. Good discussion.

 

[T-Bone]

"The Solution" is now the official news reporter for Anabolicminds.com.

 

[mattikus]

Lol this article is somewhat accurate. How about all those "pics of my supp stash" threads? Some pics have more supplements than my local vitamin shoppe. And then the 'stacks' some people take are extreme overkill. People are definitely using supplements in place of a quality diet. Can't lie, in my younger days I went a little overboard myself.

 

[TheIronAsylum]

honestly saw this coming from a mile away

 

[T-Bone]

Lol this article is somewhat accurate. How about all those "pics of my supp stash" threads? Some pics have more supplements than my local vitamin shoppe. And then the 'stacks' some people take are extreme overkill. People are definitely using supplements in place of a quality diet. Can't lie, in my younger days I went a little overboard myself.

Somewhat?. Nah, completely accurate. This thread isn't getting much love...I'm guessing it's because the truth often hurts.

 

[ericool007]

"and 3 percent had been hospitalized for kidney or liver problems that were related to the use of supplements"

can someone explain to me what 3 percent of participants had to be taking and how they were dosing it to cause them to be hospitalized.
i feel like you either have a pre-existing condition or are just retarded if you manage to hospitalize yourself over stuff you can buy in a gnc lol

 

[T-Bone]

"and 3 percent had been hospitalized for kidney or liver problems that were related to the use of supplements"

can someone explain to me what 3 percent of participants had to be taking and how they were dosing it to cause them to be hospitalized.
i feel like you either have a pre-existing condition or are just retarded if you manage to hospitalize yourself over stuff you can buy in a gnc lol

That's a bit shallow. You really think just because it's a "supplement" it's safe?. Come on now!. Maybe you just haven't been around the supplement industry long enough to understand, or just haven't been following the supplement industry long enough.

 

[ericool007]

That's a bit shallow. You really think just because it's a "supplement" it's safe?. Come on now!. Maybe you just haven't been around the supplement industry long enough to understand, or just haven't been following the supplement industry long enough.

maybe it is, i just think about the many many times i went overboard stacking PH's upon PH's upon RC's upon dozens of pills and powders and never had any issues I guess im just being a bit naive.

 

[Jiigzz]

Don't all people have an "obsession" or "unhealthy" relationship - to some extent - on the things they dedicate their life toward? I for one have 5 snowboards, like 10 jackets, 5 pairs of snow pants etc. all the bits and bobs. Could go without most of it, but I gain joy from it.

I know its not quite the same, but for some people working out is more than just "going to the gym", its something they dedicate so much energy toward that using things that accompany that is just part of the life.

 

[john.patterson]

Don't all people have an "obsession" or "unhealthy" relationship - to some extent - on the things they dedicate their life toward? I for one have 5 snowboards, like 10 jackets, 5 pairs of snow pants etc. all the bits and bobs. Could go without most of it, but I gain joy from it.

I know its not quite the same, but for some people working out is more than just "going to the gym", its something they dedicate so much energy toward that using things that accompany that is just part of the life.

I agree that everyone has an obsession of their own that is most likely unhealthy. I think an obsession like working out or being healthy and supplementing wisely is a great choice for an obsession, but the line gets crossed when the obsession of the gym and eating right is transferred to self image. I think this is the main problem that is being referenced here.

Its not so much the dedication and energy put toward the interest of health and fitness, but its the way this particular interest can skew self image and create feelings of guilt and inadequacy when comparing oneself to another, especially athletes and pictures seen in magazines. When people feel they are falling short they try to compensate by overusing supplements to get them better faster results. Some may disagree with me, but that's my opinion. I see the problem being a self image, lack of acceptance problem more so than a problem with supplements and excessive time in the gym.

 

[AntM1564]

Don't all people have an "obsession" or "unhealthy" relationship - to some extent - on the things they dedicate their life toward? I for one have 5 snowboards, like 10 jackets, 5 pairs of snow pants etc. all the bits and bobs. Could go without most of it, but I gain joy from it.

I know its not quite the same, but for some people working out is more than just "going to the gym", its something they dedicate so much energy toward that using things that accompany that is just part of the life.

I agree with this. A few different hobbies or interest come to mind.

Some people who play video games. There are some out there that need every system that is out and need to get the new systems as soon as it comes out. These people will often hold onto the older systems too. Keeping all of the games is excessive too, or even buying the newest game when the person knows they may not have the time to play it. If they were to wait a week, they could buy it pre-owned for $20 cheaper. I think a really good example with video games is sports games, and I'm speaking from experience. I would buy the new Madden every year it came out and I would go to the midnight launch. What was different? Usually nothing but newer rosters. I would spend good money on new rosters.

Another thing I can think of is golf. I enjoy playing golf, but I'm fine with my $300 complete set of clubs. One of my buddies, who is just a every other weekend golfer and is no good, has to get the newer name brand clubs as soon as they come out thinking they are going to help him. Even if they were to improve his score, is it worth purchasing new clubs several times a year in a state in which we can only play gold for 6 months give or take? Not only that, but he only goes out twice a month, sometimes more, sometimes less. It isn't like he is getting a bunch of use out of these clubs either. However, it makes him happy.

Everyone has an "unhealthy" relationship with something. It may not be that unhealthy in reality, but it usually seems that way to people who are not into that same interest or hobby. I'd rather have an "unhealthy" relationship with most hobbies or interests than have a relationship with drugs, tobacco, or alcohol.

 

[T-Bone]

Don't all people have an "obsession" or "unhealthy" relationship - to some extent - on the things they dedicate their life toward? I for one have 5 snowboards, like 10 jackets, 5 pairs of snow pants etc. all the bits and bobs. Could go without most of it, but I gain joy from it.

I know its not quite the same, but for some people working out is more than just "going to the gym", its something they dedicate so much energy toward that using things that accompany that is just part of the life.

Sure to some extent. However when people go posting their "stash" and it looks like a freakin drugstore, that is when you have to admit you have some type of problem. It's almost the same thing as a drug problem....Heck, people even use the term "stash" to describe all the supplements they have. People with an addiction will often make up excuses for it, and I've seen similarity's here on AM. One thing that bothers me a lot is when people call certain "Supplements", "Staples". A staple can't be a supplement by definition, as a staple is a need and a supplement is a want. A supplement is something that is an extra. When you take 12 different "staple" supplements, it's as if your making up excuses to use these supplements and turning them from a "want" to a "need".

 

[ma70]

Sure to some extent. However when people go posting their "stash" and it looks like a freakin drugstore, that is when you have to admit you have some type of problem. It's almost the same thing as a drug problem....Heck, people even use the term "stash" to describe all the supplements they have. People with an addiction will often make up excuses for it, and I've seen similarity's here on AM. One thing that bothers me a lot is when people call certain "Supplements", "Staples". A staple can't be a supplement by definition, as a staple is a need and a supplement is a want. A supplement is something that is an extra. When you take 12 different "staple" supplements, it's as if your making up excuses to use these supplements and turning them from a "want" to a "need".

Totally agree. It's actually why I decided to sell a huge chunk of my "stash".

 

[baxtecal]

That's why we do fitness.. To better ourselves and our look but buying supplements are addicting..

 

[bkprice]

I heard if you take to many supps you get shaky leg syndrome. I'm sure they will develop a pill to treat the obsession of taking pills very soon. How about them studying the pharmaceutical commercials that play all day that tell everyone they are sick. What is that kind of marketing going to the general population as a whole.

 

[baxtecal]

I heard if you take to many supps you get shaky leg syndrome. I'm sure they will develop a pill to treat the obsession of taking pills very soon. How about them studying the pharmaceutical commercials that play all day that tell everyone they are sick. What is that kind of marketing going to the general population as a whole.

I highly doubt that pill will be available, big pharma will take out anyone that stops them from taking money

 

[Aleksandar37]

I heard if you take to many supps you get shaky leg syndrome. I'm sure they will develop a pill to treat the obsession of taking pills very soon. How about them studying the pharmaceutical commercials that play all day that tell everyone they are sick. What is that kind of marketing going to the general population as a whole.

What kind of "supps?" Kind of a general term

 

[kboxer7]

Somewhat?. Nah, completely accurate. This thread isn't getting much love...I'm guessing it's because the truth often hurts.

Hey, stop knocking my stash : )

I'm stockpiled in case of emergency.

 

[T-Bone]

What kind of "supps?" Kind of a general term

I'm pretty sure Burger King was joking around.

 

[Aleksandar37]

I'm pretty sure Burger King was joking around.

I can never tell on here lol. So many people are quick to jump on the anti-pharma train while ingesting stuff made in people's basements.

 

[Driven2lift]

This sounds right lol
Seen enough people spending more on supps than groceries

 

[AntM1564]

This sounds right lol
Seen enough people spending more on supps than groceries

Hopefully you haven't been in the how much do ou spend monthly threads lol

 

[Jiigzz]

I can never tell on here lol. So many people are quick to jump on the anti-pharma train while ingesting stuff made in people's basements.

Uhmm extracted or synthesized stuff is always better and safer than pharma made stuff.

I mean, NMDA is much safer than anything big pharma can offer

 

[Aleksandar37]

Uhmm extracted stuff is always better and safer than pharma made stuff.

I mean, NMDA is much safer than anything big pharma can offer

I edited my response like 20 times. NMDA is...nope, won't do it lol

 

[Jiigzz]

I edited my response like 20 times. NMDA is...nope, won't do it lol

Hahahah you and me both lol

 

[CJNator]

I was thinking if I had a problem with the love of supplements that I have the other day, oh well lol.

 

[B5150]

I edited my response like 20 times. NMDA is...nope, won't do it lol

Hahahah you and me both lol

Well played to both of you!

 

[Piston Honda]

But the same people who post in this thread have 100 lbs of protein and a 12 month supply of a supplement; do they have an eating disorder too?

 

[Aleksandar37]

We all have our thing. I don't smoke crack or use hookers, so I figure I'm doing OK.

 

[Jiigzz]

We all have our thing. I don't smoke crack or use hookers, so I figure I'm doing OK.

Legit lol

 

[nerdslift2]

I've got a buddy who will text me whatever stack he took for this or that workout "bro I just dropped two scoops anarchy, two scoops high volume, a scoop ergonine, clear muscle, phospha muscle, peak atp.... most amazing pump I've ever had"
Just try adding that up in your head for a minute...

 

[jamesm11]

We all have our thing. I don't smoke crack or use hookers, so I figure I'm doing OK.

This. As long as it's not affecting your monthly finances then who cares. Is it foolish in most people's eyes? Yes, but there's worse vices to have like excessive gambling drugs, drinking, escorts, etc. I wish supps were my obsession, itd be much cheaper than nice shoes.

I'd rather we be obsessed with fitness and body image than the current fat-slob embracing movement and telling everyone that obesity is good.

 

[Aleksandar37]

I've got a buddy who will text me whatever stack he took for this or that workout "bro I just dropped two scoops anarchy, two scoops high volume, a scoop ergonine, clear muscle, phospha muscle, peak atp.... most amazing pump I've ever had"
Just try adding that up in your head for a minute...

Yeah, I know people like this as well. Even then though, it's their money to spend, but I try and get them to take 5 minutes and think about why they are taking a stack. With forums like this (and google) easily available, there is absolutely no reason to blindly take anything.

 

[T-Bone]

Yeah, I know people like this as well. Even then though, it's their money to spend, but I try and get them to take 5 minutes and think about why they are taking a stack. With forums like this (and google) easily available, there is absolutely no reason to blindly take anything.

Just look where your posting this!. Come on!. Seriously?.

 

[Aleksandar37]

Just look where your posting this!. Come on!. Seriously?.

I know, but I try and keep hope. Even if it's not searching and just asking for help, that is progress. Sure, there are still people that post asking for a critique on a stack that they've already been running for 3 months and then get mad at me for telling them that it doesn't make sense, but I still have hope!

 

[nerdslift2]

Yeah, I know people like this as well. Even then though, it's their money to spend, but I try and get them to take 5 minutes and think about why they are taking a stack. With forums like this (and google) easily available, there is absolutely no reason to blindly take anything.

I think we've all had those times when we have a nice muscle builder stack, even a ph or pct stack what have you, with the goal of using them to build muscle or strength... my problem is, how much effing money you throwing down so you can get a mind blowing pump just from walking into the gym?? This is all for a pre workout! Have I done a scoop high volume with a pre workout? Hell yes. But im way more concerned about having an effective workout than having a mind blowing pump after spending 15 bucks to go workout (that goes away in an hour)

 

[T-Bone]

These comparisons don't make much sense to me. Sometimes in life you have to take things at face value instead of making up excuses for your behavior by comparing it to something else that you consider to be "worse". When you get pulled over by law enforcement do you make excuses or comparisons, saying things like, "At least I'm not a drug dealer."....It's the same with mostly 20 somethings making comparisons between cigarettes & alcohol and pro-hormones/designer steroids..."The government bans these things which are for our health!...Meanwhile people are using cigarettes and alcohol!".


The first step is admitting you actually have a problem. When you make comparisons or excuses for what you are doing it's just denial.

 

[CincyKiller45]

These comparisons don't make much sense to me. Sometimes in life you have to take things at face value instead of making up excuses for your behavior by comparing it to something else that you consider to be "worse". When you get pulled over by law enforcement do you make excuses or comparisons, saying things like, "At least I'm not a drug dealer."....It's the same with mostly 20 somethings making comparisons between cigarettes & alcohol and pro-hormones/designer steroids..."The government bans these things which are for our health!...Meanwhile people are using cigarettes and alcohol!".


The first step is admitting you actually have a problem. When you make comparisons or excuses for what you are doing it's just denial.

Exactly.

If a crackhead is your benchmark, that's a problem in and of itself. Lol

 

[Aleksandar37]

It was a joke as I don't do drugs at all, including steroids or PHs. I was just saying that everybody has their thing if they take the time to reflect enough, but anything can become an issue or unhealthy if it begins to affect others or has a negative impact on your life. If somebody wants to spend their hard-earned money though, they should be able to without others putting them down...but for some people, THAT is their thing.