Protein Shakes, Six-Packs, and the Self-Optimizing Teen

Hi, everyone! The other day I posted a photo on Instagram of our fridge, which basically held nothing but high-protein yogurts and containers of quark (the German fresh cheese). Our kids belong to the Self-Optimization Generation, and I think we just have to say it that way. What strikes me most is that it affects every gender!

Remember how we girls used to try diets, pinch our thighs, and buy creams for our faces or against cellulite? Can you think of even one boy you knew back then for whom any of that was a thing?   

The Self-Optimization Generation

Wasn't it more that boys played sports because they enjoyed sports, while girls did it too, but also to keep a good figure? I know, I know: that sounds like stereotypes and a sledgehammer, and I really did have a circle of friends where this wasn't the main topic. But if you watch the documentary about BRAVO, the German teen magazine, from back then, you'll find a lot more beauty tips for women than for men.

That's different today! From what I can tell, the beauty craze has spread across all genders. And to stay in shape and keep a good figure, boys now flock to gyms and outdoor boot camps in droves. Whether we like it that everyone is suddenly chasing the same ideal is a question we'll leave alone for now. But it's an interesting observation, right?!

Protein, My Love

“Mom, can you buy me this protein powder and that fitness gel and some nutrition syrup too (‘yummy, saves calories’)?!” Um. Never heard of it. What exactly is that, and why do you need it?! Have you noticed that you can hardly buy cottage cheese or a granola bar anymore without HIGH PROTEIN printed on it?! What is going on?

All those Instagram filters don't seem to be enough anymore. The next generation wants to REALLY look good, in real life too. Defined biceps, a nice six-pack, hello there. And the women, please, right along with them. “What, you can't do pull-ups?!” “Well, then get over to that bar and praaaactice.”

Deluxe Gym Rats

How nice that the old jungle gyms in backyards and on playgrounds are now being turned into outdoor gyms. Wherever today's teens go, they bulk up! And you know what?! That even has some health benefits. Hey, alcohol isn't exactly a protein powerhouse, alcohol is a cell toxin, so with all that training they'd rather skip it altogether.. it's true. The statistics back that up.

The new generation drinks a lot less than we did back then! That's a delicious side effect! It's just that with all those health shakes and powders, I think: Whoa, has anyone actually read the ingredient list? Couldn't you get plenty of muscle mass from a good helping of pasta (“Mom, you have to cook more than two pounds now, that's not enough anymore with soccer and fitness”)?!

Everybody Gorgeous! Women and Men Alike

Of course not, because the Optimization Generation also has to pull its weight for the economy and the GDP. Now that the target audience has doubled, since men are watching their figures too, hey, why not milk the cow (not a real one, the oat or soy or pea cow…. Because yes, wow, there's even pea milk for your coffee, did you know that? Do you drink vegetables in your hot drinks?)

Let's put it this way: as long as teens aren't lining up to get Botox injected into their backsides, and are actually training and getting moving, we won't complain. I'm still convinced that anyone who eats fruit, vegetables, and carbs can build muscle without all the extra supplements, women and men alike. Even if hardly anyone in my family believes me…. What's it like at your house?