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Is Your Protein Shake Safe?

Protein shakes, powders, and supplements are incredibly popular with the health conscious crowd. Considering what typical protein shakes promise – sleek muscles, weight loss and a quick, easy “healthy” meal replacement – it’s logical to see why, but is your protein shake safe? Unfortunately, the food industry is making an absolute killing (maybe literally) selling ones that are filled with highly processed denatured proteins, chemicals, preservatives and other additives. There’s one thing in common for all of them – they are all processed and deciding on whether or not they are actually real food comes into question. Now not all processed things we put in our body are technically bad for us – but understanding what exactly is in your protein shake is critical to deciding whether to consume it, select an alternative, or discontinue use all together.

Protein

GET INFORMED

We’ve discussed GMO’s here, Artificial Colors here, Natural Flavors here, Carrageenan here, Antibiotics here, and Hormones here before so I won’t go into them again in detail specifically. Regardless, you should know consuming a protein drink with any of those ingredients is a risk to your health.

NOT CERTIFIED ORGANIC

Most protein powders on the market are not certified organic, nor are they Non-GMO Project Verified. That means all of them might contain GMOs and most definitely contain pesticides that are considered harmful and potentially toxic with long-term exposure. This increased exposure is linked to birth defects, nerve damage, and even cancer. The President’s Cancer Panel has urged us not to consume food sprayed with pesticides and doesn’t believe any amount is safe. Because of this reason, I can’t imagine willingly wanting to spend a serious chunk of change (protein shakes are expensive!) to buy any of these listed products as a way to help build muscle, lose weight or replace a meal.

IS YOUR PROTEIN DRINK SAFE? Hmmm… NOT WITH THESE INGREDIENTS:

Heavy Metals
Consumer Reports conducted an eye-opening investigation that revealed several protein powders contain heavy metals – specifically arsenic, cadmium, and lead. EAS Myoplex tested for two heavy metals in higher amounts than the USP limit of exposure per day. Muscle Milk had the highest of all levels of all brands tested.

Here’s an excerpt taken from the Consumer Reports investigation on Protein Powders:

Cadmium raises special concern because it accumulates in and can damage the kidneys, the same organs that can be damaged by excessive protein consumption. And it can take 20 years for the body to eliminate even half the cadmium absorbed today.” This is a highly toxic metal, and while there are some cases where decisions have to be weighed against relative risks, accepting that you have to be exposed to any cadmium at all in your protein drink after your workout is definitely not one of them,” says Michael Harbut, M.D., director of the Environmental Cancer Initiative at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Royal Oak, Mich.
“When these toxic heavy metals are combined in a product that is marketed for daily use, that raises serious public health concerns, especially for pregnant women, children, and young adults,” says Burns, who has been a toxicology consultant to state and federal government agencies.

Soy Protein

Many protein drinks use soy protein concentrate or soy protein isolate in conjunction with other proteins. Over 90% of the soy produced in this country is GMO and contaminated with Roundup herbicide, but that’s not the only reason to avoid soy protein. When soy is looked at from a macronutrient perspective, it can give the illusion of a very healthy food – full of plant based protein, essential amino acids and fiber. However, the soy that is grown and produced today is largely hybridized, making the amino acids largely indigestible leading to digestive issues that have caused many people to be allergic to soy. What’s worse is when soy is isolated to just its protein state, it becomes severely denatured and can cause hormonal disruptions because of the excessive amount of estrogen contained in it. Soy also has an abundance of phytic acid that leaches calcium and other vital minerals from your body.

Maltodextrin & Fibersol

Calling out an ingredient filler like maltodextrin may make you think I’m being nitpicky – but is this carb substitute that is likely derived from genetically modified corn really necessary in protein powders? Maltodextrin can be used to make the substance “fibersol”. This is made by heating maltodextrin at very high temperatures and treating it with enzymes and acids to make a fiber your body simply can’t digest and makes you feel artificially full. If you are eating enough plant-based foods, there is no reason to supplement with this type of chemically derived fiber. Fibersol is just another additive that does absolutely nothing for your long term health. Why not add a real food like spinach or a banana to your smoothie instead?

Acesulfame Potassium or Acesulfame K 

This is the most common form of artificial sweetener available in protein drinks (and tons of other processed foods) today and according the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) it is anything but safe. CSPI reported the safety tests of acesulfame-K that were conducted in the 1970s were inadequate. Specifically, two rat studies suggest that the additive might cause cancer, but these studies were never addressed by the FDA before they approved the substance to also be used unregulated in soft drinks. In addition it is mentioned that large doses of acetoacetamide (a breakdown product of this sugar) have been shown to affect the thyroid in rats, rabbits, and dogs. 

Whey Protein Isolate

Whey protein isolate is highly processed, unlike whole protein food concentrate. Most whey protein isolates start from ultra-pasteurized conventional milk that has antibiotics and growth hormones and are then exposed to acid processing, stripping alkalinizing minerals, naturally occurring vitamins and lipids. This processing makes whey protein isolate over acidifying in the body. Chronically consuming whey protein isolate without appropriate balance of alkalizing foods, can acidify your body and over time increase your vulnerability to degenerative disease. This overly processed form of whey can be found in a lot of popular protein drinks.

Luckily, you don’t have to rely on protein drinks because simply eating a variety of real food alone gives you plenty of protein.

But, if you are still concerned about protein you could make a protein-filled real food smoothie like this or choose from any of these real food sources of protein below:

Meat sources of protein – beef, pork, poultry, eggs, yogurt, cheese, fish (very important to choose organic if you go this route)
Vegetarian sources of protein – legumes (dry beans, lentils, and peas), nuts and seeds (almond butter, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds), whole grains (oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, pasta), dark leafy vegetables, and some fruits like avocado

SO ARE THERE ANY HEALTHY PROTEIN POWDERS?

Fortunately, there are a few Food Babe approved protein powders, including Organic Plant Protein Superfood 30 Shake Tera’s Organic Whey, Nutiva’s Hemp Protein that do not contain any of the ingredients mentioned here, and would fall under the definition of “real food” in my book. If you decide to supplement your protein, it is very important to double and triple check the ingredient list and check with the manufacturer to see how they process their protein.

If you know someone using a questionable protein powder, please share this post with them – I know they will be grateful to know the truth, considering how much some of these types of supplements cost!

Xo,

Vani

Updated 8/2016: Additional research on protein powders added and removed outdated information.

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786 responses to “Is Your Protein Shake Safe?

  1. Hello FoodBabe!!!
    I’ve recently been having heart palpatations. I’ve seen a doctor and have had a tests done and I have no underlying heart issues. I’m athletic, in shape, I eat healthy and I don’t drink caffeinated drinks.
    I’ve just come across this post and I noticed that you address additives in shakeology. I drink shakeology…. (Been drinking it for 2 months) my doctor thinks the heart palpatations are from shakeology. Could this be possible? Why all of a sudden would the shakeology cause this when it hasn’t been a problem for 2 months. Also, I’ve seen many people post about the benefits of ingredients in shakeology but little information about side effects of ingredients. Any thoughts or input would be greatly appreciated!

    1. Kristina,
      I recently started drinking Shakeology with intention of replacing a meal for weight loss. My friend has used it and loves it. I thought I did too, until I had a heart palpitation one night, and then felt funny another time (like I was given speed) after drinking a shake. I’ve stopped drinking them and will switch to a FOOD BABE sanctioned version.
      So, you are not alone! My friend, however, has had no issues. We’re the lucky ones, I guess, and now our shakes will have to be consciously uber-healthy!

      Thanks for sharing – it helped me see the light.

    2. I used to drink Shakeology and also experienced heart palpatations. I immediately stopped drinking it. I now use Nutiva’s hemp protein powder. I really do love it. I mix it with about 10oz of almond milk, cacao powder, tbsp almond butter, cup of ice.

    3. Kristina,

      I am going throught the same thing right now. Been drinking Shakeology for three months and all of a sudden I’m getting wicked heart palpitations! So far all diagnostic tests have been negative so I have stopped drinking the shakes to see if they go away. Too soon to tell as of yet but I’m glad I am not the only one going through this mess.

    4. It is probably full of caffeine products, and guarana seeds, etc… stuff with an usual high about of caffeine disguised as “other” ingredients. If I were you, I would look at the ingredients and get busy googling because you are probably suffering a caffeine overdose.

  2. Hi Food Babe,
    I just wanted to let you know that there is a GREAT protein powder out there called Vegan Smart by Naturade. I looked for all of the things you said were bad and it looks like this one is free from those additives. They also advertise it as NON-GMO.

    1. What immediately stood out for me was the “Essentra Trim**” on the label…what is this?

      Also…many whey protein powders are derived from (unless otherwise noted) from cows that are injected with antibiotics and hormones.

      With each ingredient, think about it’s processing and how such ingredient was derived (is it gmo, was it treated with pesticides, etc.). I would highly recommend calling the company of the product and ask them such questions – THINK, THINK, THINK…and do not quickly buy into the idea that it is safe. It took me months to question, research, and decide which products I would allow into my home…which were very few 😉

  3. I recently started drinking herbal life shakes once a day and just stumbled across this article! Is herbal life one if the brands to avoid? I’m really trying to make healthy choices and have heard such good things about herbal life…I don’t want to continue on a path of what I think might be good for me and then find out years down the road it was the worst thing to do! Any insight would be helpful! Thank you!

    1. Herbalife is horrible. I tried to jump on the herbalife wagon, but after I looked up each ingredient one by one, I saw there is nothing good about herbalife. Do the look up for yourself. Not only should you avoid soy, herbalife is still primarily gmo soy. They do have one new non gmo flavor. But that means the rest are gmo. Herba life isn’t food. It’s all synthetic, and if you look up the ingredients, its half fillers, and drug ingredients to counter act ingredients that do weiRd things to your body.

      1. Arbonne shakes are vegan, gluten, GMO and soy free. If you want more info about their protein shakes I can get that to you b

  4. Best whey protein on the Market. See our review on Amazon.com.

    Super clean only 7 ingredients. Whey protein, coconut water, natural cocoa, pure cane sugar, Non fat milk powder, vanilla extract flavor and monk fruit.

    Taste is amazing. Tried the rest, now try the best.

    We challenge Foodbabe to find something wrong with our product.

    TEAM WHEYCOCO

    1. Taking a quick glance…the artificial flavors and sucralose stood out. Also, there are different ways that maltodetrin is derived – much of the time (but not all) it is from gmo corn.

      I also mentioned this above, but many whey protein powders are derived from (unless otherwise noted) from cows that are injected with antibiotics and hormones.

      With each ingredient, think about it’s processing and how such ingredient was derived (is it gmo, was it treated with pesticides, etc.). I would highly recommend calling the company of the product and ask them such questions – THINK, THINK, THINK…and do not quickly buy into the idea that it is safe. It took me months to question, research, and decide which products I would allow into my home…which were very few 😉

    2. Advocare does have artificial ingredients. If you Google their food labels, I’m sure you’ll get all the research you need to make an informed decision.

  5. Isagenix is the highest better than organic quality, non gmo undenatured whey protein concentrate. It is sourced from grass-fed cows in New Zealand that have never been treated with antibiotics or steroids. The meal replacement shakes combine the perfect blend of protein, carbs, fat and fiber to be a filling nutritious meal. The sugars in the nutrition all come from non-gmo natural fruit and beet sources. I couldn’t begin to tell you how great I have felt after starting a program. Contact me for more information. laurarlongo.isagenix.com

  6. Food babe, what do you think of Orgain Organic Protein Powder? It’s available at Costco. I’d be curious to get your take. I currently drink Shakeology and was looking for a less expensive-and healthier-option. Thanks!!

      1. But that article does not mention Orgain Protein. It is sold by Costco and is organic and plant based. What does the Food Babe think? Thanks in advance!

    1. Hi Bar Brothers!

      Protein shakes and powders are good for the body- they are the easiest for your body to digest and absorb. They recommend that everyone start to “drink” their breakfast for the immediate energy the body needs when starting the day.

      but it depend on WHAT you are trying to have them do for you.
      If you are trying to lose weight, then you would need to choose a product that contains 1/3 rd of your daily requirement of Natural vitamins, from cold processing from food, not synthetic, and mineral, as well as 12-20g of protein. as this would be used as a meal REPLACEMENT.
      If you are using it as an additional source energy as needed for those who workout or are weight lifter, then they many not need the additional vitamins.

      Hope that helps answer your question. If you bar guys would like to try some, please contact me or visit my website for all natural and organic health and beauty products. http://www.LivingGreener.myShaklee.com

      Have a great day~Ann

  7. Hi,
    I grew up a Shaklee child and now at 39 decided to become a distributor b/c I have tried so many other supplements/programs (rebelling against what my parents believed it) but have ultimately come back to Shaklee because I have experienced Shaklee as being the ONLY program that I can see results. The scientific research behind all of their supplements is above and beyond proof as well. I would love for you to include Shaklee products in your research.

    Thanks,
    Shaune

  8. I use an all natural collagen protein that doesn’t have artificial sweetner, gluten or GMOs. They collagen is broken down by soaking it in a bath of fruit enzymes. Added vitamins are plant based. It has 12 fruits and vegetables. The shake is Nufinna. Looking at the graph above Nufinna is NO to all things listed

      1. Thank you for replying. My understanding from what I have researched online is that the body can only use about 12 grams of protein in 1.5 hours AND this protein is 95% absorb-able vs whey at 53% and soy at 26% So if I take 20 grams of protein most of it is wasted.
        I have seen people say the sugar is high but I think that is because there is no artificial sweetener (I can deal with a teaspoon of cane sugar 🙂

        What are your thoughts on the absorbability information?

      2. There are much information on the internet, and each scientist has their own opinion. So I think some where in the middle is a good way to lean towards.

        I have not seen 12 g as a limit anywhere and for absorbability, you have to take into consideration the amount of water and fats you are ingesting at the same time as that will vary the ability for the body to absorb the protein of any type.

        The body can process roughly 8-10g of protein per hour, so if you eat a meal/shake with 30g of protein, it will take about 3 hours for the protein to be digested…leaving you feeling full for 3-4 hours…

        Your daily intake of protein should be somewhere around a total of 50g

        My point in the 12g of protein was if you are using it as a MEAL, then 12 g of protein won’t keep you full for very long.
        Protein takes longer than carbohydrates to digest, which means that calories from protein tend to keep you FULL longer, than calorie from carbohydrates. This can be very helpful in controlling your calorie intake and managing your weight.

  9. I love Garden of Life Raw Meal and other Protein Powders. I also use Hemp Protein powders by Manitoba Harvest. Both are organic and use non gmo ingredients.

  10. Shaklee has a few products that might be added to your list of SAFE, NATURAL, NON GMO, ORGANIC Protein Drinks. Containing anywhere from 7 – 14 g of protein from a plant. http://livinggreener.myshaklee.com/us/en/

    Vitalized Protein – in Vanilla or Chocolate – $40 for members $48 non-members
    Shaklee 180 Smoothee – SOY OR WHEY – Vanilla, Choc, Strawberry, Mango, Cafe’ latte, $40 member up to $59 non
    Energizing Soy Protein- Vanilla or Cocoa – $35 member or $42 non
    Shaklee Meal Shakes – French Vanilla or Barvarian Cocoa – $24 member $28 non

    Food Babe, please include these as a wonderful source of natural organic protein for your readers.

      1. Shaklee is the #1 Natural Nutrition Company in the US. They are THE ORIGINAL “Green” company. Shaklee does not place the new certified organic label on their products because some ingredients are unable to be certified organic. Shaklee was organic before anyone else ever thought to be. For over 50 years Shaklee has been growing and purchasing only NON-GMO and Organic ingredients for their products.

        In one case recently, Shaklee purchases Organic Green Tea from the same Certified Organic grower, these leaves are used to make several of their products.

        When the shipment was received, the leaves were tested even though they were purchased from a CERTIFIED ORGANIC GROWER, and they were found to have th HIGHEST concentration they have EVER found for Pesticides!!!! After additional testing, it was confirmed they were contaminated and not ORGANIC….after they visited the grower, it was found that an unusual wind storm had carried the pesticides from many many miles away and landed on his crop. Shaklee rejected the entire shipment, and this ORGANIC farmer resold it as ORGANIC to another “natural, organic company” Shaklee’s standards are FAR and ABOVE the normal for any company, and always have been. Their products are so trusted our Olympic Athletes and NASA uses them.

        Here the response to your question:

        Certified organic, which is a farming method. Certified organic ingredients are always non-GMO, but certified non-GMO is not always necessarily certified organic…it means the ingredients are certified not to contain genetically modified ingredients, which is generally documented by third party oversight. In the case of Shaklee non-GMO soy used in our soy protein drink supplements, we use the Identity Preserved Program, which documents soy beans used for planting to the end product and ensures that the soy is not cross-contaminated with genetically modified soy or soybeans.

        Certified organic is a related but somewhat different topic. While we are often asked why we don’t use 100% certified organic ingredients in all our supplements, it is impossible because not all ingredients come in a certified organic version, such as herbs and wild crafted plants and botanicals, and ingredients grown outside the United States. And while certified organic is a goal to shoot for,, it does not necessarily ensure purity and potency standards needed for premium dietary supplements-Shaklee’s quality assurance process and product quality specifications do that.

        Shaklee tests all ingredients when they receive them, then they are retested while they are being processed into products, then the finished products are RE-TESTED again to make sure the quality and quantity of the ingredients meets the specs on the label.

        Additionally, products labeled as organic need to meet one of three standards.
        1) Produce that has been exclusively cultivated and processed according to the new organic standards is permitted to bear the USDA “100% Organic” seal.
        2) Packaged goods in which 95% of the ingredients by weight have been organically produced can be labeled “Organic.”
        3) Packaged goods with 70% to 95% organic ingredients by weight may be labeled “Made with Organic,” and the specific organic ingredients need to be listed.

        Products made with less than 70% organic ingredients are permitted only to list organic ingredients in the ingredient panel and cannot use the word “organic” in primary labeling.

        Thank you for Asking Alanna!

        Ann

        Feel free to contact me at [email protected] if you have any other questions.

  11. I am a bikini fitness competitor and have used supplements for years. I’ve been using Visi Global’s products for about 10 months now and have completely replaced other protein supplements with their hydrolyzed collagen. I replace one meal per day of my 5 with the Nufinna shake and I add ingredients like oats for extra carbs and calories. I eat a lot of meat and eggs so I love getting the extra vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatories from the Scandinavian berries and other fruits and veggies. The sugar in the Nufinna is fruit sugars so it’s metabolized for energy amd has nutritional value unlike artificial sweeteners and processed sugars. Unless I’m in my cutting phase I’m not worrief about the sugar content. I’ve seen huge benefit in joint pain relief, and muscle recovery using the collagen. As well as anti-aging effects. I also feel full until my next meal and have heard similar results from my customers.

  12. Love your wonderful work….big fan.
    We have a TX licensed raw dairy (100% pasture raise, pure Jersey cows) near Houston. I used to literally give away our liquid whey after raw cheeses were made. One day a customer, who was in the Olympic about 10 years ago, told me he drinks a pint of my raw before training and he can out perform his friends in the Iron Man training, yearly! Now I sell out of my raw whey protein drink and can never keep up with the demand! Lots of athletes use our raw whey drink with wonderful results and moms make Westin A. Price baby formula with our raw Kefir liquid whey.
    The whey is raw and our Jersey (A2 type dairy) are on pasture 100% of their lives, they get NON-gmo fermented alfalfa, kelp, seeds and hay from our neighbor that are never spray. Your body can EASILY use 100% of the nutrient in our whey. People should visit local raw cheese maker that use milk from pasture raise cows that are NOT Holstein (black and white, mutated A1 casein) cows, for the best raw protein whey! Support your local food providers for the best.

  13. Thanks Food Babe, I really appreciate articles like this. A Better Whey is a product of a lot of research, study, and searching to find a 100% natural grass fed whey protein. And it appears from many of the posts I am not alone in our quest for a more healthy and truly natural diet. https://www.facebook.com/Proteinorganicwhey
    Thanks again. And to the many of you keeping up the fight for truly organic products, thank you.

  14. Hello Food Babe, I’ve been reading a lot of conflicting articles about vitamin C is there one that you recommend? I see garden of life has one but it must admit ever since you crossed them off your food babe approved protein list I’m kinda sketchy about the rest of their products.

    I know juicing and eating your vitamin c is the best option but it would be nice to up my dose on those lazy days, please help me 🙂

    Thank You

  15. I use SunWarrior-Warrior Blend Raw Vegan Protein. I don’t see any of the bad ingredients you listed in your post, but know they could be calling them other things. Any feedback?
    Thanks!

  16. I would love to see you do a review of the Herbalife shake. I notice it is not listed in your shake reviews.

  17. Has anyone had problems with EAS Advant-EDGE Carb Control Lean and Tone shakes? Symptoms such as heart palpitations, muscle tightness?

  18. What are your thought about Kylea protein powder “Total living Greens” any information is greatly appreciated. Thank you & Thank you for such an informative web page…….keep up the GOOD fight : )

  19. What about the Arbonne nutrition line? More specifically, the protein powders. Thanks for all the great info above, really gives you something to think about.

  20. Food Babe, I would love to know about the safety in the ingredients in Isagenix. I’ve heard a lot of them lately. I use Herbalife but now I am very hesitant since I’ve learned about GMO ingredients and their main ingredient is US purchased soy beans. More than anything I would like to know where you would rank it and if its something you would take yourself?
    Thank you in advance!

  21. I have been drinking Phood shakes for a few months now. It is a 100% plant based whole food shake and is free of gluten, dairy, soy, and animals products. I am by no means an expert on this stuff, I just compared some products at my local Clarks Nutritional. I’d love your input on whether Phood is as good as I think it is. Thanks!

  22. Hello Food Babe!
    I just bought your book as of last night and although I’ve been aware of the danger of most foods, the depth you’ve gone to explain these additives, etc has me completely disgusted with what’s been allowed to feed our families. I was curious about a product i recently purchased. Amazing Grass which is supposed to be Certified Organic and GMO free. I just discovered that it does contain Carrageenan though… Is this still considered safe to continue using?
    Thank you so much for your time.

    Kandace

  23. Hi, Vani . . . I am reading your book and am awestruck! My supposedly “healthy” diet really needs some major overhauls! I have a question I hope you can address. I am a 58-year-old female, who has lost a lot of weight to get into generally good shape, but I still have another 15 pounds to go and want to burn extra flab. I do cardio daily and began doing weight training using dumbbells and other equipment at the gym. I have wanted to add muscle after a diagnosis two years ago of a beginning stage of osteoporosis. I was told by my trainer to eat approximately 150 grams of protein a day, so I have been using protein shakes. YIKES! Your book and your website have been a real eye opener about this topic. I will investigate other protein powders, but what is your opinion on the need to eat a great deal of protein? I eat lots of fruits and vegetables, very few processed carbs, and some whole grains, but my my diet is relatively low in non-vegetable/fruit carbs. Any changes I should be making? What is your recommendation for someone who wants to add muscle and burn fat like me? Thanks for the great information, Vani — you have been an inspiration!

  24. Hi Food Babe. WILL YOU HELP US? , ideal shape shakes and bars have lead ….. Seems by these papers i pulled up on our internet we all have access too the information, they were sued by a non profit research company called ERC( enviromental research company) For Containing toxic hazardious chemicals( HIGH LEVELS OF LEAD) AND NOT WARNING US!! OF CANCER!! ) I thaught i was safe because they had DR, recommended on there sight and sold me on that , and the fact theyre hunger supressant was A NATURAL one just under the potato skin, i figured i could hurry and stay in ketosis if they shipped asap.. i paid 129.99 for a 90 day supply of the chocolate ,vanilla,strawberry meal repacement shakes. free shipping and my first order online on a weekend was in error so it started being a mess to try and start,they also stole 9.99 extra from my account =139.99 ,all i got was sick. they really didnt want to honor there 100% money back policy. paypal got it for me,, so far they still owe paypal 19.99… and i drank lead shakes and bars!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! signed sickened.

    1. Lori… I wasn’t aware of this and purchased them too!!! Have a ton of it left. Yikes!! I wonder if I can get my money back?

  25. Hi food babe,,, about ideal shape lead/ sued over failure to warn us. please excuse my toooooo long letter earlier? i must learn to make a long story shorter.. so i did 🙂 the gremlins must have taken over in my lead poisoned head. much love…lori go get em!

  26. Hi, what are your thoughts on Arbonne shakes? I love them, and now I sell them. Not organic, but It is free of GMO’s, dairy, soy, gluten, and whey. Would love to know your thoughts. Thanks!

  27. Hello Food Babe! I’ve just recently purchased Nut’s and More Almond Infused whey protein. The ingredients list is: Ultra Whey Complex, Cross-flow ultrafiltration, difiltration instant whey concentrate, blanched almonds, cocoa, ” natural flavor “, and Stevia. Thanks in advance!

  28. It appears that this chart isn’t overly accurate. I hope that the various products were studied through an unbiased lens, as earning any proceeds from one of the products would be HIGHLY unethical. Just want everyone to be well informed. It is also probably important to note that some of the products listed are not marketed as “protein shakes,” but rather as meal replacements.

  29. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE…..can you do a comparison with the Shaklee 180 and the Juice Plus Complete shakes? I have heard and read excellent things about these products and would love your unbiased opinion. They are both Non-Gmo, Organic, vegan

    Thank you!!

  30. I really love your blog! I love that you compare things that real people are wanting to know about without bashing!! I am a distributor for Visi. I have tried several different shakes and programs and imo Visi is the only one that is truly all natural, no GMO, Kosher. I’m not trying to sell anyone on the products but I do love to make people aware that there is something out there that has true amino acids, hydrolyzed collagen and pure ingredients. I would love to talk to anyone that that has joint pain, stiffness, acne, or just wants to put a little zip in their step. There is no miracle pill out there, it took you a long time to get unhealthy, it will take a while to get your body healthy and get you your best you! http://www.tashapettit.govisi.com there are tons of testimonials and information on my website if your interested.

  31. There is just no comparison to Isagenix protein. It is pure, organic and derived from cows in new zealand eating non treated grass, no hormones or chemicals. There are shake replacement, bars, soups and amazing supplements. I have been using this program for 5 months and am so overly impressed with the products I HIGHLY recommend it! Not only are those products amazing the IONIX product is like no other out there. If you would like more info I encourage you to message me at [email protected]!! I would love to send you more info!!! We also have a great support group that makes all of the difference!

    1. You are absolutely right! The IONIX protein shake is the best out there in my opinion too. However, I feel that no matter how good the protein shake is, it can never replace natural juices! For more information you can read more on my site http://benefitsofjuicing.net/ and you’ll find out how good juicing is for health as opposed to protein shakes which can be damaging to our health particularly if it has the wrong ingredients!

      1. Thank you so much for such a PROMPT response! I have another question pertaining to some of the information I am reading in the book The Food Babe Way… hoping I can word this simply and concisely… Vani mentions that a simple way to drink a “green” juice daily is by drinking a shot of wheatgrass. Can I do this EVERYDAY instead of buying multiple types of greens and blending/juicing them for a daily drink. You see, I don’t mind holding my nose and downing something “strong”. I absolutely need SIMPLE. Can I forgo the “juicing” and make this my routine? Thanks in advance!

  32. juice plus complete is made with soy but it’s non GMO and there is no warning label. Thoughts?

  33. Hey I just recently purchased ideal shape replacement shakes and it had a little warning label that said that it contained lead. I don’t know if I’m really comfortable drinking it or how safe is it to drink. If you could give me your feed back on it I would truly appreciate it. Thank you!!

  34. What do you know about Isagenix or Isalean? I am looking for a meal replacement shake. I would really appreciate your input, thanks, Kelly

  35. As a competitive powerlifter for several decades and RKC kettlebell instructor, I have searched far and wide for a quality whey protein and have tried dozens. Plant based proteins do not provide me with the recovery from my workouts (after much experimentation). I recently found the Isagenix product Isapro with undenatured whey protein concentrate from grass fed cows in New Zealand. Michael Colgan, PhD is a recent proponent and his recommendation for this product caught my attention. I decided to try it and started 3 weeks ago.

    It is amazing! It has provided me with the best recovery I have ever experienced.

    You can watch Dr. Colgan here: https://youtu.be/L_0RTy7c3Ns

  36. Hello,
    I recently started drinking slim and sassy trim Shake from doTerra essential oils. Replacing my breakfast meal. Appreciate any input you may have. Thank you Suzi

  37. Like Food babe said, it is important to find an organic protein powder to avoid GMO’s, hormones & antibiotics as well as pesticides & chemicals. I have tried a few brands & lastly tried Nutiva Hemp protein after orginally reading this article, but have to say my husband & I both did not like the taste at all & basically had to force it down. The biggest thing is the texture too, it didnt blend well & had a dirt-like texture.

    We finally found IDLife’s Meal Replacement which is a combination of Organic, high-quality, cold-filtered Whey Protein which is Non-gmo from hormone free grass fed cows and micro-milled chia seeds, which are known as a great source of healthy omega 3 fatty acids and Fiber. It only has 7 ingredients & tastes amazing! Highly reccomend it!

    http://www.RevealYourIDLife.com

  38. What a great article. This has truly been helpful with so many products and ingredients out there. Thank you very much for sharing and keep up the good work!

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