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The Edutopia Poll
by Laila Weir
Girls aren't the only casualties of our national obsession with beauty. Research and media reports increasingly show that boys also suffer from body-image pressures. The resulting issues can take various forms: Though the National Eating Disorders Association reports that around 10 percent of anorexics are male, more boys may be trying to gain weight -- sometimes in unsafe ways. A Harvard Medical School study found that one in eight boys take supplements to build muscle, ranging from more innocuous protein powder to downright-dangerous steroids. And just as with the opposite sex, many more males suffer from unhappiness with their bodies that could lead to problems. A survey found 41 percent of men dissatisfied with their weight, and research indicates that male body-image concerns are on the rise. Are schools tackling this trend? We'd like to hear your thoughts.
Can't stress enough - Say no to steroids
Being a physical trainer for adults, I am often asked if steroids are safe and can be taken to build muscle. I think schools need to educate our future generation that there are no shortcuts to success. If you are conscious about your body, that's good as long as its used in a positive way. Participating in running or working out with weights (talk to a physical trainer or your gym teacher before using weights) is a better way to build muscle than take steroids. Schools should also educate children on long term effects of steroids on testosterone levels.