If you have a teenager at home who's starting to work out, you've probably already heard about supplements. They're everywhere on TikTok, YouTube, Instagram… and the line between truth and misinformation is thin.
My goal here is to set the record straight with simple and clear facts.
In Canada, supplements are heavily regulated.
Before even discussing the products, it's important to understand this:
Every supplement legally sold in the country must have a Health Canada NPN number.
This number guarantees that:
The product is tested
The ingredients are compliant.
The dosages are safe.
The quality is checked before each product is put on the market
That's also why I partner with Shop Santé : everything that enters the store is validated, compliant and approved.
Dietary protein vs. true supplement
Important: a protein powder without a therapeutic claim is considered a food.
So yes, a teenager can consume it (like Greek yogurt or protein milk) especially if they lack protein during the day.
Supplements that are actually useful for young people
Here, we're talking about health , not performance.
Omega-3
Positive influence on:
Cognitive development
Mood
The concentration
Brain health
This is not an “adult” supplement, it is an essential nutrient for everyone .
Vitamin D
In Quebec, the majority of people, including young people, lack it.
Essential for immunity, energy and mood.
And once again:
An overweight person needs a higher dosage, because vitamin D is fat-soluble.
Creatine for teenagers: yes, but not right away
That's the question that comes up most often.
Yes, creatine is safe… but that doesn’t mean it’s necessary.
A teenager:
Progresses very quickly naturally
Hormones through the roof
Responds very well to training
So my answer is simple:
Wait until you reach a real plateau before introducing creatine.
There's no need to take it if your body is already progressing rapidly on its own.
Key takeaways
Supplementation is not dangerous.
Disinformation , however, can be.
By purchasing NPN-approved products from a reliable retailer like Shop Santé , you ensure your children have safe, supervised, and above all, relevant products for their needs!
Félix Daigle, Shop Santé Ambassador
