Use of creatine and protein powders linked to alcoholism later in life, study claims

‘The results from our study are concerning given the common use of legal performance-enhancing substances among young people, particularly boys and men,’ researcher says

Men who used legal performance-enhancing substances were more likely to experience alcohol use problems and risk behaviours (Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Quest)

Using performance-enhancing substances such as protein powders or creatine is linked to alcoholism in later life, a study suggests.

Young adults between the ages of 18-26 who used such substances were significantly more likely to report several problematic alcohol use and drinking-related risk behaviours seven years later, the researchers found.

The relationship was found to be particularly strong among men.