Protein Supplements

If you are like most runners these days, you most likely use a protein supplement at least once during the week. The last decade has seen a dramatic increase in the quantity of protein supplements. However, the quality of those supplements has struggled to keep pace. As runners, we constantly strive to feed our bodies proper nutrition to achieve optimal performance. Certainly, protein intake is key among those nutritional factors. This highlights an ever pressing need for us to be aware of what we put into our bodies. Natural sources of protein are the best. But, with our busy lifestyles and schedules we often depend upon protein supplements, or powders, to achieve our nutritional goals. Rather than recite a laundry list of ingredients and options, there are two sources worth examining. First, a RunnersWorld article titled Protein for Runners 101 is a good starting point for those interested in learning more about the topic. Finally, and perhaps more importantly, Labdoor, an independent testing company, used an FDA-registered laboratory to perform 1095 analytical chemistry and molecular biology assays on 74 best-selling protein supplements. These were then ranked on several factors, including: protein, fat, sugar, cholesterol, calcium, sodium, lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury content. The results are compelling and should change the way you look at your protein supplement.