Just got the new issue of Consumer Reports.  They tested some ready mix powder proteins and found that many contained good amounts of heavy metals.  Wanted to get the forum’s input on the risks of powdered proteins.
thanks,

Report can be read here.

I have long wondered whether it is a good idea to consume as much protein powder as I do.  Generally, I use two servings per day of Optimum Nutrition 100% Natural Whey protein, and, aside from the fear of heavy metal contamination, it is flavored with Stevia.  While Stevia and other artificial sweeteners have been used by many people for many years, I still wonder at their long-term safety.

Big deal. I feel the article blows up the risk like x 1,000
alot of things in life are risks - I think this is actually one of the smaller ones

oh, theres a bunch of bro-science in there too:

“Not so, says Kathleen Laquale, a licensed nutritionist and certified athletic trainer. “The body can only break down 5 to 9 grams of protein per hour, and any excess that is not burned for energy is converted to fat or excreted, so it’s a ridiculous waste to be recommending so much more than you really need,” she says. “
nuff said.

Mumford - 02 June 2010 10:34 PM

Big deal. I feel the article blows up the risk like x 1,000
alot of things in life are risks - I think this is actually one of the smaller ones

oh, theres a bunch of bro-science in there too:

“Not so, says Kathleen Laquale, a licensed nutritionist and certified athletic trainer. “The body can only break down 5 to 9 grams of protein per hour, and any excess that is not burned for energy is converted to fat or excreted, so it’s a ridiculous waste to be recommending so much more than you really need,” she says. “
nuff said.

I completely agree about the nutritionist’s statement.  Where did she get that figure?

While the amounts may not be that large, it surprises me that those substances would be present in protein powders at all.  This report is really just the latest in a string of reports showing undesirable and/or toxic substances in various different supplements.

I wouldn’t take this report as a call to stop using supplements, but it seems obvious that the industry isn’t regulating itself and could use some sort of oversight.

Juarez - 03 June 2010 11:57 PM

Mumford - 02 June 2010 10:34 PM

I wouldn’t take this report as a call to stop using supplements, but it seems obvious that the industry isn’t regulating itself and could use some sort of oversight.

^this

http://www.informed-choice.org/content/tested-products-1

This is an independent testing lab which tests products for banned substances. I think optimum nutrition was one of the products.

Just got this in mail.

FOR MORE INFORMATION IN RESPONSE TO THE CONSUMER REPORTS ARTICLE, PLEASE READ BELOW
http://www.cytosport.com/news/press

To Our CytoSport Muscle Milk Customers,

A recent Consumer Reports story raised questions about the trace levels of cadmium and lead found in popular protein shakes including CytoSport Muscle Milk Chocolate and Vanilla Créme powdered shakes. We want to assure you that there is no safety risk from the responsible use of CytoSport Muscle Milk protein shakes.

Consumer Reports testing was based on consumption of three shakes per day and the testing applied proposed U.S Pharmacopeia standards - not current, accepted or approved guidelines. Our recommended up to two servings of Muscle Milk daily, as stated on the label, is well below the current accepted standards and below the proposed U.S. Pharmacopeia limits.

Trace levels of these elements are naturally found in the environment and in many foods we eat daily (such as shellfish, potatoes, rice, and leafy greens). We conduct extensive testing to ensure the quality of our products. Each time the shakes have been tested for elements, such as cadmium and lead, the results are below the limit of all current, well-established safety standards.

You can continue to use Muscle Milk shakes with confidence. To calculate your estimated daily protein needs, please use the protein calculator by clicking on the image below (pop-up window). If you have questions about how much protein is appropriate for your needs, you should talk to your doctor or a licensed nutritionist.

CONTACT:
Bobbie White
707-747-3355
STATEMENT BY GREG PICKETT
FOUNDER CYTOSPORT™, INC.

We all have a better chance of getting hit by a bus than overdosing on PRO powder IMO.

Jim@TBF - 06 August 2010 12:28 AM

We all have a better chance of getting hit by a bus than overdosing on PRO powder IMO.

lololol

It’s like the joke:

A 50yr. old man goes to the Dr. and says, I do not drink, smoke or run with wild women, can you tell me how I can live to be 100? The Dr. replies, why in the world would you want to live till 100 then?

Be safe, but enjoy life!