Is it safe for my 16 year old son to use a weight gain drink from GNC?

Answer by  dhp (129)

There are many ways to gain weight healthy and naturally without the assistance of drinks. I'm assuming he's doing this as part of an athletic regimen (which many 16 year old boys try), in which case, it's a good idea to consult a doctor or nutritionist. But natural gain for athletic reasons can be achieved through a high-protein diet.

Answer by  sue123 (375)

If your teenage son is unable to put on weight by eating a high calorie content diet alone there is no reason that he couldn't bump up his weight by adding a few weight gain beverages.

Answer by  EMTSquad51 (25)

There are many different types of weight gain drinks sold at GNC. What I would recommend doing is research the many different types, what they contain, and most importantly what your son will have to do while taking the drink. Most weight-gaining drinks/milkshakes are only a supplement and have certain requirements for doing physical exercise.

Answer by  beck (1099)

Definitely check the ingredients on the weight gain drink. Be very careful of high protein drinks that can actually cause kidney damage. Advise your son to just eat healthy food and get exercise and this will add muscle mass. Weight gain supplements and drinks can be dangerous to other organs.

Answer by  chlentz (98)

First of all before trying any types of supplements i.e. weight gain or weight loss, one needs to see their doctor to get an opinion. Also make sure to research the weight gain drink to see if there are any side effects to younger adults before taking.

Answer by  Brett (7986)

Is it safe in the sense that your son won't die or have any serious health or side affects from it. Yes. However, at 16, your son hasn't probably been done growing, so you should ask yourself why he is using a supplement to help him grow, when nature will still help him.

Answer by  Vernon (21)

I would consult a doctor before beginning any weight loss or gain program. They will be knowledgeable enough to decide if weight gain drink or other dietary modification is necessary.

Answer by  elt17 (15)

Yes, GNC typically has safe and healthy products that they match you with depending on what you are trying to do. If your son is an athlete then this is very common because many athletes need to bulk up, and GNC provides a healthy way for them to do that.

Answer by  Alex (23)

That depends on the type of weight gaining drink. There are some that are created with soy protein and some that use chemicals. Soy is a wonderful plant and several vegetarians use these drinks to replace protein they should be getting from meat. The other kind requires a little bit of research, because different chemicals will react with different people.

Answer by  mcr666 (362)

Weight gain drinks are generally not safe for minors. Wether or not this is safe can depend on your son's weight, activity, and diet, among other factors. It is best to consult with a doctor to be on the safe side.

Answer by  amtcura66 (1340)

No, it is not safe. He should not want to gain weight because it is going to be hell trying to lose the weight.

Answer by  winkler294896 (45)

There is no risk for your sixteen year old son, as long as the drink is all natural. Anything at GNC is basically good for anyone of any age, depending on the product, but he should be fine if he drinks a weight gain drink.

Answer by  aearthdragon (471)

It might and it might not. The FDA which controls our food and medicine does not control dietary supplements. This causes them to react in hindsight. To ensure your son's safety read the ingrediants understand what they are and then decide if it is worth the risk.