Q: I am having a debate with my Mom and I need your help to convince her that supplements are safe. She thinks because I’m 16 that I shouldn’t be taking them. Can you send me some information on their effects?

A: I know Mom’s can be rough sometimes! This time, I’m going to have to agree with her though man… at least for the most part. I’m not saying that all supplements are inappropriate, but certainly the steroidal precursors would be a bad idea at your age. And I’m not saying that because it’s “The right thing to say” like you might think. I say it because it is true. There is no reason for you to be trying to manipulate your hormone (testosterone) levels at your age, and if you do, you are certain to bring on some side effects that are less than desirable. However, I would say that a good MRP, a Multi Vitamin, and maybe even a short cycle of Creatine would be ok. One thing that you should remember – for sure – is that supplements are just that… supplements. They are meant to supplement your training and diet programs, not to replace them.