Harvard scientists issue 'toxic' warning over 'hidden dangers' of protein powders

Harvard scientists have issued a warning over the 'hidden dangers' of protein powders.

Now, protein powder is often considered to be a quick and easy way to hit your daily protein goal.

For gym-goers, in particular, you need to hit a specific amount of protein every day to help stimulate muscle growth. Without it, there would be no point in going to the gym.

Healthline reports that active people need to consume between '1.2 to two grams of protein per kilogram of body weight' to build muscle.

So as well as eating high-protein foods, like chicken, steak, fish, and eggs, protein powders are an ideal supplement which helps you reach your target.

Protein powder is very much part of the 'gym-bro' life (Getty Stock Images)

You just mix it in with a bit of water or milk, and you've got yourself a pretty tasty drink.

But while one scoop usually offers between 10 to 30 grams of protein, powders often contain additional ingredients like sugars, artificial flavourings and thickeners.

It comes after Harvard Health previously issued a bit of protein powder warning back in 2022

Kathy McManus, director of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital, said: "I don't recommend using protein powders except in a few instances, and only with supervision."

Back then, McManus claimed that we don't know the long-term effects of regular protein powder use because there is 'limited data'.

"People with dairy allergies or trouble digesting lactose [milk sugar] can experience gastrointestinal discomfort if they use a milk-based protein powder," she added.

A protein warning has been issued by the consumer health information division of Harvard Medical School (Getty Stock Images)

The Harvard publication then cited a report about toxins in protein powders, put together by researchers of non-profit group Clean Label Project.

134 products and 130 types of toxins were looked at and the study found that 'many protein powders contained heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury), bisphenol-A (BPA, which is used to make plastic), pesticides, or other contaminants with links to cancer and other health conditions'

"Some toxins were present in significant quantities. For example, one protein powder contained 25 times the allowed limit of BPA," Harvard Health added.

Instead of using protein supplements, McManus insists that 'there are many ways to get protein without turning to a powder'.

Non-animal-based protein options include lentils, chickpeas, tofu, nuts and edamame beans.

She did also note that chemical-free protein powders can still be useful for men and women of an older age, such as those who are recovering from cancer treatment, or instances where the body isn't healing properly.

Harvard Health said in their disclaimer that their content should never 'be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician'.

So speak to your GP if you have any concerns.