LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – A new Consumer Reports study found that some protein powders and shakes contain unsafe levels of lead.
The study tested 23 protein powders and shakes and found that more than two-thirds of the products contained more lead in a single serving than experts consider safe to consume daily.
Ashley Wilmeth, a registered dietitian nutritionist at Texas Tech, says protein supplements should not be the primary source of daily protein intake.
“I would say don’t make it maybe your sole source of nutrition when it comes to protein, yes rely on food first if you possibly can,” Wilmeth said. “But we live in a culture and society today where some of these quicker and fast convenient products are necessary for us to live the lifestyles we want to live.”
Health effects of lead consumption
Unsafe lead consumption can cause various health issues, according to Wilmeth. She says neurological side effects are the most common symptoms.
“I see a lot more of neurological side effects, so meaning things with the brain, maybe some fatigue or sluggishness,” Wilmeth said. “You can actually kind of get a blueish, grayish color to your skin kind of indicating we have that lead toxicity. There’s actually a line that can appear in the gums as some of the trademark symptoms, but usually it’s more of that neurological aspect.”
Food-based protein alternatives
Wilmeth encourages people seeking more daily protein to get it from food sources rather than supplements.
“A lot of people in this area we’re very ruled by beef. In fact, that’s a great source, you get a lot of B-vitamins,” Wilmeth said. “But for those of us kind of looking into the industry in terms of less animal muscle meat, maybe that Ovo-lacto style of vegetarian perhaps, like dairy and eggs, are great sources of protein.”
Despite the study findings, Wilmeth says protein powders and shakes remain safe to consume when used appropriately. She encourages consumers to research products and avoid making supplements their main protein source.
“Still very much they have their place. It’s not something we need to be creating food fear about,” Wilmeth said. “But it is what it is, a supplement, so we hope to have a good solid foundation of food first to start and build from.”
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