Nutrition Diva Getting the lead out (of your protein shake)
Nov 12, 2025
The podcast dives into a recent investigation by Consumer Reports revealing concerning levels of lead in protein powders. It discusses the health risks of low-level lead exposure, especially for vulnerable populations like children. The findings highlight why plant-based powders contain more lead than whey, with a worrying increase since 2010. Listeners learn how to calculate personalized protein needs and find safer protein powder options. Tips on reducing household lead exposure round out this crucial conversation about nutrition and safety.
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Lead Is Cumulative And Harmful
- Lead is a cumulative toxin that affects the brain and multiple organ systems, with special risk for children and pregnant people.
- Chronic low-level exposure in adults links to hypertension, kidney damage, and cognitive decline.
Consumer Reports Used Stricter Benchmarks
- Consumer Reports tested 23 protein products and flagged about 70% as concerning under its stricter benchmark.
- Those products did not violate official regulations but failed Consumer Reports' conservative internal thresholds.
Standards For Lead Vary Widely
- Regulatory limits differ widely: FDA allows ~12.5 µg/day for adults while California Prop 65 caps at 0.5 µg/day.
- Consumer Reports set an even stricter threshold meant as an early warning, not proof of acute toxicity.