Protein powder is a popular supplement among fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals. However, many commercial protein powders contain unhealthy additives, artificial sweeteners, and even heavy metals that can be detrimental to health.
Toxic Ingredients in Protein Powder
Many protein powders on the market are filled with preservatives, fillers, artificial flavors, and even toxic phosphates that can burden the body over time. These additives can contribute to inflammation, gut distress, and even metabolic dysfunction.
The Importance of Clean Protein
When it comes to protein powder, it’s essential to choose a clean and high-quality option to fuel your body properly without compromising your health. Avoiding toxic options and selecting the best alternatives can make all the difference.
The Worst Protein Powder at Costco
Some protein powders are loaded with harmful ingredients that can negatively impact health. If you’re serious about your health, you’ll want to avoid these products and look for cleaner options instead.
Gold Standard Whey Protein
Gold Standard Whey is a popular protein powder, but its ingredient list leaves a lot to be desired. It contains fillers and preservatives that break down into phosphates, which can accumulate in the body and negatively impact kidney function over time. Additionally, it includes sunflower oil, which is high in omega-6 fatty acids that can contribute to chronic inflammation. Many versions of this protein powder also contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener that has been linked to negative effects on gut health and metabolic function.
Kirkland Brand Protein
Kirkland’s whey protein is a small step up from Gold Standard, but it’s still not a great option for those looking to avoid artificial additives. It contains sucralose and artificial sweeteners, which can disrupt gut bacteria, increase cravings, and even contribute to insulin resistance over time. Moreover, Kirkland’s brand does not specify whether its whey is from grass-fed cows, which raises concerns about the quality of the protein and potential exposure to antibiotics and hormones.
Better Protein Powder Options
If you still want a convenient protein supplement but want to minimize harmful additives, here are a couple of better choices available at Costco. These options still have some drawbacks, but they are significantly cleaner than the worst offenders.
Ascent Native Fuel Whey Protein
Ascent Native Fuel Whey Protein is one of the cleaner whey protein options at Costco. It’s sweetened with stevia, a naturally derived sweetener that doesn’t contribute to metabolic dysfunction like artificial sweeteners do. Additionally, it’s cold-processed, which helps retain more of the beneficial amino acids and peptides naturally found in high-quality protein. This makes it a much safer option for those looking to protect their gut health while enjoying a hint of sweetness.
Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein
Orgain’s organic plant-based protein powder is another better option, but it does come with some caveats. It’s made with sprouted plant proteins, which can help improve digestibility. Additionally, it’s sweetened with natural ingredients, making it a better option than many other plant-based protein powders. However, plant-based protein powders as a whole have been found to contain high levels of heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic, which is something to be aware of when choosing a plant-based protein.
The Best Protein Powder at Costco
If you’re looking for the cleanest, most natural option, the winner is Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder. Unlike traditional protein powder, collagen provides a cleaner and more bioavailable source of protein. It also offers additional health benefits beyond just muscle recovery.
Why Collagen is the Best Choice
Collagen is an incredible source of protein that supports not only muscle repair but also skin health, joint strength, and gut function. It’s sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised cows and has a higher protein content per gram compared to traditional protein powders. Moreover, it doesn’t require additives, artificial sweeteners, or fillers, making it a superior choice for those looking to maintain a clean and non-toxic diet.
References:
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