When you're on the move, in between meals, or before or after a workout, protein powders may provide you a quick and easy boost of nourishment. However, not every protein powder is made equally. In fact, some may have questionable substances such thickeners, artificial flavors, and additional sugars that pose hidden health hazards. And to make matters worse, a 2018 Clean Label Project analysis revealed that some of the most popular protein products had dangerous amounts of BPA, cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury.
As a dietary supplement, protein powder is regulated by the producers rather than the FDA, who are responsible for the goods' safety and labeling.According to Rachel Fine, RD, "Since the supplement market is mainly unregulated, it's crucial to pick reputable products with third-party testing criteria for safety."Here are five protein powders to steer clear of the next time you shop at the grocery store or place an online purchase.
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1 French Vanilla Wafer, Vegan Protein Powder by Natreve
The "moo-less" protein powder from Natreve has no specific health risks because it is non-GMO, gluten-free, devoid of added sugar, and free of artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. It is also a well-balanced protein.
However, if, like the majority of Natreve's customers, you particularly purchase this protein because it is vegan, it's important to be aware that a product recall has occurred since it was found to contain unreported milk. Containers from two lots include milk-based substances that aren't listed on the label due to a manufacturing production mistake.
Consuming this protein powder might result in a life-threatening allergic response in persons who are allergic to milk or have a significant sensitivity to it. Additionally, people who are lactose intolerant may still have some unpleasant digestive side effects.
2 Bulletproof Collagen Protein
A specific kind of protein called collagen acts as the basis for all the connective tissues in your body. Collagen protein powders have gained popularity in recent years, offering a wide range of amazing potential advantages, from increasing muscle growth to promoting bone health. However, Kristin Draayer, RD, does not suggest it.
She says there is no solid data to back up the assertions that collagen protein is helpful for the health of the hair, skin, and joints. "Collagen is broken down into amino acids during digestion and absorption before being taken into the circulation. The body then employs these amino acids to create the necessary proteins. The amino acids' ability to reorganize into collagen cannot be relied upon. In actuality, the likelihood that they won't is higher."
In addition, Draayer claims that collagen is a poor protein for developing muscle because it lacks all nine necessary amino acids, notably leucine, which is needed for the process.
However, the worries don't end there. The analysis of the clean label project
3 BSN Syntha-6 Protein Powder
Corn syrup and sucralose, an artificial sweetener, are a one-two punch in this protein powder, according to Bill Bradley, RD, CEO of Mediterranean Living.
Corn syrup can cause diabetes and obesity, while sucralose and other artificial sweeteners are terrible for your digestive system, according to Bradley.
Acesulfame-potassium, another artificial sweetener, is also included in the components, which is another reason to stay away from this product. While the FDA has determined that this component is safe in moderation, studies have indicated that excessive use may raise the risk of cancer and metabolic syndrome, as well as alter brain function.
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