Hiding in Plain Sight: Recent Study Unveils Harmful Chemicals in Most Popular Protein Shakes

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Protein powders are popular nowadays, especially among fitness enthusiasts. Many use these tasty drinks to hasten muscle growth. Protein powders have become a staple among those who want to live a healthier lifestyle. However, it turns out that these “healthy drinks” are not as healthy as one might think.

Why the study was conducted?

Protein powders are heavily marketed as “healthy drinks” or “healthier alternatives” to soda and Gatorade. But the truth is that they do not require FDA approval. For this reason protein powder producers don’t place the unhealthy content of their products on the label. This means that the toxic content of these “healthy drinks” can go undetected.

This is the reason why a non-profit organization called Clean Label Project conducted a study that would reveal the true content of the products that are being marketed as “healthy drinks.”

How the Study Was Done

The Clean Label Project team purchased more than 130 protein powder products from more than 50 different brands, based on the best-seller lists of Amazon and Nielsen. The team also purchased organic protein powders. They then worked with an analytical laboratory to review the contents of these products. The products were tested for over 100 toxins including bisphenol A or BPA, pesticides, contaminants, mycotoxins, and heavy metals.

The Results of the Study

According to Dr. Sean Callan, protein powder users are exposed to multiple toxic heavy metals. The study showed that around 75% of protein powders have a significant amount of lead. This heavy metal can have adverse effects on the brain and nervous system. It could also lead to kidney damage.

The study also showed that 55% of the tested products have significant amounts of BPA. This toxic chemical can lead to impotence and heart disease. It can also cause insulin resistance and possibly brain damage.

According to Dr. Callan, 33% of the tested powders are not safe enough for consumption. This means that these powders have exceeded the established safety limits for food products.

But what’s more shocking is that certified organic protein powders have twice as much heavy metal as the non-organic ones. In fact, the plant-based protein powders are the most toxic.

Here’s a list of the best protein powders according to the study, in no particular order:

1. Animal Muscle Food Frosted Cinnamon Bun Whey
2. Ancient Nutrition Cinnamon Apple Bone Broth Protein
3. Biochem Chocolate 100% Whey Protein
4. Biochem Vanilla 100% Whey Protein
5. Puori PW1 Vanilla Pure Whey

Here’s a list of the worst products according to the study, in no particular order:

1. Vega Plant Based Vanilla Protein Powder
2. 360Cut Whey Chocolate Powder
3. Quest Chocolate Milkshake Powder
4. Nature’s Best Vanilla Zero Carb Powder
5. Garden of Life Cacao Organic Meal

What This Study Means For You

In the wake of these eye-opening revelations about the contents of protein powders, many should be more conscious when choosing which of these products to purchase. This study was not performed to condemn the use of all protein powders but instead provide the consumer with ample knowledge to make their own decision. After all, it is highly likely that many consume these unhealthy ingredients as a part of our daily food intake. Due to their prevalence in many different products the results of this study are meant to make us aware of these ingredients in order to take steps to limit their consumption.

Reference

1. Clean Label Project – 2018 Protein Powder Testing