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The Internet Is The World's Worst Pharmacy w/ Paris Martineau & Ashwin Rodrigues

14 snips
Oct 29, 2025
In this discussion, Paris Martineau, a Consumer Reports journalist known for her investigative work on food safety, teams up with freelance journalist Ashwin Rodriguez, who has expertise in dietary supplements. They delve into alarming findings about lead contamination in protein powders, revealing that 69% contain unsafe levels. The duo emphasizes the regulatory gaps in the supplement industry, likening it to the wild west, and unpack the risks of relying on online health advice. Their insights challenge common supplement practices and highlight the importance of informed choices.
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INSIGHT

Widespread Lead In Protein Powders

  • Consumer Reports found 69% of tested protein powders had lead above daily safe limits in a single serving.
  • Plant-based powders showed much higher lead levels than dairy or beef alternatives.
INSIGHT

How Plant Proteins Concentrate Lead

  • Lead often comes from contaminated soil and concentrates during plant protein processing.
  • Plant-based powders were about nine times higher in lead than dairy-based proteins.
INSIGHT

Lead Lingers And Reappears In The Body

  • Lead accumulates in bones and can re-enter the bloodstream years later during bone repair.
  • Daily use of contaminated protein creates low-level chronic exposure with possible long-term effects.
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