Are Protein Drinks Safe?

Two years ago, I started following the Body for Life workout routine and eating plan. I bought all the books, studied them, and began my routine. It proved to be an effective way to shed the pounds and build lean muscle.

I have since changed my workout routine to include only bodyweight exercises combined with HIIT and cardio, but I stayed with the eating plan because it seemed to work for me.

Being an active, on the go mother, I found it hard to adhere to the eating plan. Body for Life endorsed Myoplex protein shakes, powders, and protein bars, so I picked up a four pack of the drinks. Surprisingly, they tasted really good and helped me stay on track when food wasn't accessible.

Several weeks ago the news reported harmful levels of toxic metal had been found in protein shakes and could potentially be dangerous.

It is reported that the toxic metals arsenic, cadmium, and lead were found in 15 drinks tested. Suppliers claim that the drinks are still safe to consume and pose no health risks, even if three servings are taken.

But experts claim otherwise.

Consumer Reports says the products Myoplex and Muscle Milk are of higher concern because three servings of these drinks can pose a risk.

The news was shocking and I was angered by it. I went straight to Google and searched symptoms for toxic metal poisoning. Though I felt fine and had no symptoms or side effects from the drinks I'd been consuming for almost two years, I immediately stopped using the products.

According to Urvashi Rangan, they are concerned about chronic low levels of exposure to the heavy metals. These metals can stay in the body for a long time.

Upon reading this, I then Googled "is Myoplex safe to drink," and according to the suppliers, they are. So, what is all the hype about? Who exactly are we to believe? I contacted my nutritionist and he advised me to stop taking the meal replacement drinks, which I had.

Andrew Shao, of the Council for Responsible Nutrition, claims that the levels of heavy metals found are sub FDA minimums and, therefore, are not a health concern.

Consumer Reports says there is no regulations that require proof of safety concerning these products.

"We think the FDA should be tracking these products better," says Rangan, "and that is not happening at this time."

I've chosen not to take the risk with my health, and have been off the drinks for several weeks now. To my advantage, I've lost a few pounds, and the constipation. I have since found out that too much protein is not healthy for you. In fact, according to many nutritionists, If you eat a healthy diet with lean meats your body will receive all the protein it needs.

So, I've adjusted my diet to include some protein, but mostly fresh fruits and vegetables. I'm satisfied with the results I'm getting from my altered plan. I have more post workout energy, and no longer crave the chocolate protein shakes and bars.

Listen to your instincts and what your body is telling you. I went against my better judgment when I started using protein supplements. I rarely put anything into my body, even Tylenol. You never know what can be inside packages these days.

Be cautious and consult a professional before trying anything.

Fitness related articles:

Bare Bones of Diet and Exercise

Bulking Up or Trimming Down

Counting Calories--Do I Have To?

How To Get Faster Results In Your Workout--A Website Review

Read the news report by CBS:

Could Protein Shakes Harm Your Health.