There are various ingredients in the protein powder that we consume. These protein supplements may seem to give you energy for your workout and help in building muscle. But do you know how harmful they can be to your health? Understanding what is inside your body and what ingredients are hiding in your daily supplements is essential. However, they are not so harmful if swallowed in small quantities. But can have extreme side effects if taken in higher amounts. One such ingredient used in the formation of protein powders is xanthan gum. This article will cover all the basics for you to make informed about xanthan gum and other ingredients to be aware of in protein powder; you need to be mindful of:
Contents
Xanthan Gum
It is a sugar-like compound made by mixing fermented sugars with the gram-negative Xanthomonas campestris bacteria. It works well to stabilize a range of industrial, food, and healthcare products. For example, xanthan gum is used in protein powder as it makes products thick and creamy, improving their shelf life without any changes in their texture. According to research, xanthan gum is a perfectly safe food additive when consumed in small amounts. However, it can have side effects like intestinal gas and bloating if misused. Therefore, using xanthan gum in protein powder has no role in increasing the nutritional value; instead, its use adds value to the perceived nutritional value.
Benefits
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- Improves the texture, consistency, flavor, and appearance of foods.
- It creates the feeling of fullness and thus helps in weight loss.
- Xanthan gum helps to nurture good gut bacteria, which serves your health.
- It might help fight cancer.
- It helps regulate bowel movements in some people.
Side Effects
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- Slow digestion and nutrient absorption are affected.
- Dehydration and nutrition loss.
- Increased gas problems and bloating.
- Abdominal pain and constipation.
- Altered gut bacteria cause lethargy.
Why Do Brands Flavor Whey Protein?
One of the most common and popular protein sources is whey. But to reduce cost and use less whey, other proteins are added to the mix as fillers. The two main reasons why brands flavor whey is:
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- To Meet The Consumer Demand
Flavored proteins are just as popular as other classic desserts; there is a massive market for sweets that taste good.
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- The Whey Smells Wrong With Covering It Up.
The most dominant off-flavors are due to lipid oxidation through various processes and chemicals that impact the smell of a dry whey powder.
The Benefits Of Whey Proteins Are As Follows
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- It provides the necessary amino acids to sustain muscle growth.
- It can help dieters drop some pounds.
- It is suitable for all ages; they prevent muscle mass and muscle wasting in elderly individuals.
- It has a positive impact on an individual’s immunity.
- It reduces stress, decreases blood pressure, lowers cortisol, and improves health.
Other Additives
The list of most common ingredients in protein powders is as mentioned below:
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- Acacia gum
- Acesulfame potassium
- Artificial flavors
- Aspartame
- Carrageenan
- Cellulose gum
- Locust bean gum
- Inulin
- Dextrose
- Dextrin
- Erythritol
According to medical advice, protein supplements can be highly toxic, so you should not consume them extensively. About 130 toxins found in protein powders contain heavy metals, namely lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.
Pea Proteins
It is a high-quality protein rich in iron, arginine, and branched-chain amino acids. While it works for most people, anyone with allergies, sensitivity, or intolerance to peas should avoid it.
Amino Acids
Some essential amino acids are histidine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine, valine, etc. When one intakes protein, the body breaks the protein into amino acids. Those amino acids, referred to as the building blocks of protein, are used to repair and grow new muscle fibers.
Conclusion
Protein intake has become necessary in today’s era, but one must be aware of its ingredients. Protein powders though in colossal demand, may contain harmful additives. One may use chemical-free protein powders in some instances but to a specific limit. One may substitute consuming protein powders from whole foods such as nuts, seeds, low-fat dairy products, eggs, etc. However, there are many ways to get protein without turning to a powder.
