How Healthy is Your Protein Powder?
To say that protein powder is popular would be an understatement. The global protein supplements market is anticipated to reach a market size of $32.6 billion by 2027.
With so many people mindlessly consuming protein powder on a daily basis, you start to wonder if there are any downsides to it. And with the oversaturation of protein powders on the market, it’s harder to keep track of protein powders which are high quality and the ones that aren't.
A 2018 study conducted by “The Clean Label Project” found that many of the highest selling protein powders on the market had toxins and heavy metals in them, including cadmium and lead. Repeated consumption of these toxins can put an individual at risk for developing neurological disorders and disrupting their digestive and respiratory systems.
Many of these protein powders also contain high amounts of oils, sugars, probiotics, and amino acids. These added ingredients can contribute to weight gain, which may interfere with achieving your fitness goals.
With so many people mindlessly consuming protein powder on a daily basis, you start to wonder if there are any downsides to it. And with the oversaturation of protein powders on the market, it’s harder to keep track of protein powders which are high quality and the ones that aren't.
A 2018 study conducted by “The Clean Label Project” found that many of the highest selling protein powders on the market had toxins and heavy metals in them, including cadmium and lead. Repeated consumption of these toxins can put an individual at risk for developing neurological disorders and disrupting their digestive and respiratory systems.
Many of these protein powders also contain high amounts of oils, sugars, probiotics, and amino acids. These added ingredients can contribute to weight gain, which may interfere with achieving your fitness goals.
A few untold dangers of protein powder and supplements
- Nutrient Deficiencies : One might be so focussed on meeting their daily protein needs, they’d end up missing out on several other vital nutrients thus leading to nutritional deficiencies and end up taking even more supplements than they did before.
- Renal (Kidney) Problems : The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. A high intake of protein increases the “acidic” load on the kidneys leading to kidney stones and other complications. A long term, unsolicited use of protein powder and supplements may even lead to kidney failure.
- Gastrointestinal (Digestive) Problems : Protein supplements and powders are devoid of fibre, thus leading to stomach problems like constipation, diverticulitis (inflammation in the digestive tract), etc.
- Weight Gain : Protein powders, being high in added sugar, can add to the amount of calories being consumed on an everyday basis.This can lead to unhealthy weight gain and also spike the blood sugar levels.
- A Negative Impact on Your Bone Health : Too much protein can increase the risk of kidney stones, and decrease calcium retention, thus increasing the risk of bone fractures.
Ultimately, if a protein powder includes one of these as the main ingredient, it should be good quality protein powder and safe to consume.
In Conclusion
While protein powders do provide various benefits, they have multiple drawbacks too, which is why one should consult with an expert before adding them to their diet. Also, supplements can never replace/provide one with the benefits that real, whole foods can, when taken in a proper, proportioned manner. The key to maintaining accurate physical health will always be regular exercise and a balanced diet.
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