Millions warned as well-liked muscle-building powder might be filled with ‘heavy metals’
Gym-goers are warned as studies reveal popular protein powders can be packed with hidden toxic chemicals, heavy metals and even pesticides, sparking a major investigation
Scientists discovered that certain US protein powders were contaminated with heavy metals(Image: Getty)
Gym-goers have been hit with a warning after research revealed that popular protein powders could be loaded with “toxic chemicals” and heavy metals. Fitness fanatics across the globe swear by the muscle-building shakes to easily hit their daily nutrition goals.
Experts say you need between 1.2 and two grams of protein per kilogram of body weight to maximize gains in the gym. But your post-workout shake could be doing more harm than good, according to a report highlighted by Harvard University experts.
A study by the Clean Label Project screened 134 best-selling US products for 130 types of toxins – and the results were scary.
Scientists discovered that many of the powders were contaminated with heavy metals like arsenic and lead, Bisphenol-A (a chemical used to make plastic) and pesticides
In several cases, the hazardous substances were found in large quantities, making the powders highly unsafe for consumption.
Harvard Medical School instructor Dr. Mallika Marshall warned that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) “leaves it up to manufacturers to evaluate the safety and labelling of products.”
It means fitness fans have absolutely no idea if what is printed on the tub is actually what they are putting into their bodies.
The Harvard health warning also noted that protein powder “may contain added sugar, calories, or even toxic chemicals.”
Aside from the chemical danger, milk-based powders can trigger severe digestive distress for anyone with lactose issues, while other brands are quietly loaded with heaps of hidden sugar.
The findings have now sparked a major legal investigation by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is aiming to standardise the wild-west supplement market.
Launching a massive probe into supplement manufacturers, Paxton said: “Protein is a vital macronutrient for human health, and Texans deserve clean protein powders without having to worry whether the products contain heavy metals or other harmful chemicals.
“Far too many corporations have snuck harmful ingredients in their products, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help make America healthy again.”
