I’m 14 years old and now in third form. I excel at academics and take part in many activities, but that’s not the problem. The problem is that I’m very small in comparison to my peers. Because of my height and weight (or lack thereof), I am often teased and belittled. I have always struggled with my body and would love to find a way to ‘bulk up’. I’ve tried eating more, but I only got fat; then attempted working out, but I don’t have much time for the gym, (not that my mother likes the idea of such intense work-outs). And I’m still very tiny. I’m at my last resort and started taking supplements and vitamins that I got from a friend (I didn’t question where he got them). I’ve been taking them for about three weeks, but I’m a bit afraid to continue taking them. What do you think?

— Insecure

Dear Insecure,

Our first bit of advice to you is to stop taking the supplements and vitamins you got from your friend! Although they may seem like a ‘quick fix’ to get the body you want, it can have many adverse effects on your natural course of development and cause the onset of serious conditions later in life.

Secondly, we think you need to give yourself a little time to grow. Although you are 14 and are wondering why you aren’t ‘on par’ with your peers, maybe it’s that you are a late bloomer and will experience your growth spurt a little later than others. It’s also important that you take into consideration your genetics. Remember that if your family is generally short/small, then it is less likely that you will be tall/big.

It seems though that you need to take some time and think about you. Remember that you’re unique and that we each develop at different times. Try to be as confident as possible and don’t let what others have to say tear you down. Try talking to your parents, a counsellor or another responsible adult or peer who will help you to build your confidence.

If you want to build muscle in a healthy way, join a sports team, eat muscle building foods and get your doctor to recommend the best supplements and vitamins for you.