Hidden Dangers of Protein Powders

Are you one of those fitness freaks who constantly gulp protein shakes to keep it going?? Protein powders may seem to make your life easier, but there are serious consequences. Well… Quit the shortcuts! Get yourself used to wholesome meals and enjoy the long-term health benefits. 

Have a look at some of the things that these powders could do to your body.

Protein powders are famous among fitness and many other sports enthusiasts. Simply because adding a scoop of Protein powder seems the easiest way to boost some energy to pump some muscles. But do you know the hidden dangers of these Protein powders?

Intaking the necessary ounces of natural proteins has become a difficult task with our busy life schedules. As a result, various brands and flavors of Protein powders have been introduced to the market. Here are some of the hidden dangers and other facts you should know.

Protein Powders: Are they natural?

The simplest answer is no. The Proteins that come in the form of powders may come from Soybeans, rice, potatoes, eggs, or milk. But they also include artificial ingredients. Added sugars, thickeners, artificial flavors, vitamins, and minerals can be harmful to the human body up to a great extent. 

The powders for muscle building contain more protein whereas the powders for weight loss contain fewer proteins.

The latest risk revealed

The health officials recommend using protein powders only in few instances and under supervision.

Research results on toxins in Protein powders revealed 134 products of 130 types of toxins. Many Protein powders contain heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium. Some even contain materials used to make plastics 25 times beyond the recommended limit. Other cancerous contaminants and pesticides too are added in significant volumes.

So how is this possible? How does protein powder contain so many contaminants? The researchers have elaborated on the toxins in soils. The toxins are absorbed by the plants used as ingredients to make protein powders.

This does not mean all Protein powders are bad for health and contaminated. 

Numerous other risks may come too, 

• Protein powders are dietary supplements. There is no exact way we could be sure of the manufacturers' claim of what it contains.

• There is very little data on possible side effects. And no information on how much is too much.

Side effects when consumed in high dosages 

• Constant stomach pains, headaches, and fatigue can be caused by consuming high dosages.

•     Digestive distress. Using milk-based protein powders can cause digestive problems for those who have dairy allergies. 

•     Some Protein powders contain excessive sugar. So, a scoop can make a glass of milk provide over 1200 calories. This can cause unhealthy levels of blood sugar and weight gain. The American Heart Association's recommendation for added sugar is 24 grams for women and 36 grams for men per day.

•      Excessive dosages can lower blood pressure. This can appear as good news for people with high blood pressure. However, there are chances this can lower the blood pressure down to dangerous levels.

•      Too much protein can strain the Kidneys. Simply, when too much protein is consumed, the production quantity of Urea also escalates. This may cause the Kidneys extra pressure.

•       A diet of only Protein with no carbs will lead the body to have high blood acidity levels. This may affect liver functions. Additional Protein intake without exercise can cause liver inflammation or liver disorders.

•        Dehydration. High dosages of Protein powder can make your body dehydrate. 

How to go the natural way

According to the recommended amount of proteins per day, you can follow the below simple diet,

•          An egg for breakfast. An egg provides 6 grams of protein to start your day.

•          A Plain Yoghurt for lunch. About 6 ounces of this will add 18 grams of Protein.

•          Nuts for the evening snack. Another 4 to 7grams of Protein.

•          2 ounces of cooked chicken for dinner along with a glass of milk. An easy 14 grams for your Protein intake. 

When to use Protein Powders

Under certain medical conditions, you can look for the use of Chemical-free Protein powders. This too is recommended to be taken under medical supervision.

•    An Impaired appetite or difficulty in eating due to old age or as a result of cancer treatments.

•     A wound delaying healing. Your body needs protein to repair the broken cells or build new ones.

•     A condition such as burns, that needs additional Proteins and calory intake.

However, it is always good and safe to gain your Protein share with whole foods. Low-fat dairy products, Cheese, yogurt, milk, eggs, and meat are not hard to find. There are many other products you can turn to in search of Proteins. 

Besides, the Protein powders don’t come cheap. So, if you can afford it you might as well think about putting some effort to prepare some wholesome meals.