Consumer Health Alert
By Dr. Hellena — physician, cancer survivor, and truth-teller in the wellness space

Let’s talk about what no one tells you about your “healthy” protein powder.

Consumer Reports just tested 23 popular protein powders and shakes.
More than two-thirds had lead levels higher than what’s considered safe for daily use.
Yes —lead. The same heavy metal we fight to keep out of children’s toys and old paint.

Now before you panic — no, you’re not going to get lead poisoning overnight.
But here’s the thing: lead builds up. It hides in bones and organs and moves slowly out of your system. So if you’re adding these powders to your daily smoothie thinking you’re doing your body a favor — you might actually be dosing yourself with something toxic over time.

Quick Facts

1. Unsafe levels in most products:
   15 of 23 tested exceeded 0.5 micrograms of lead per serving — the strict California safety benchmark.

2. Worst offenders:

   • Naked Nutrition Vegan Mass Gainer— 7.7 micrograms per serving

   • Huel Black Edition— 6.3 micrograms per serving

3. Plant-based powders were hit hardest.
   Contaminated soil or groundwater could be part of the problem, but experts say it’s not the only cause — sloppy supply chain oversight is another.

4. There’s no “safe” amount of lead.
   Even small exposures affect brain function, hormones, and long-term energy metabolism — especially dangerous for children and pregnant women.

5. Supplements aren’t well-regulated.
   The FDA doesn’t vet supplements like it does prescription drugs or food. Meaning: you’re trusting the manufacturer’s word — unless the product has independent third-party testing (look for USP or NSF seals).

6. Your best defense?

   • Don’t take protein powders daily unless medically necessary.

   • Rotate brands and check for third-party testing.

   • Get most of your protein from real food: beans, lentils, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, and lean meats.

Dr. H’s Insight:
I’ve seen this same pattern in my clinic — patients who think they’re doing “everything right” yet still feel off. Sometimes it’s not the lack of nutrients but the hidden toxins that sabotage healing and energy.

Before you scoop, ask: Is this truly nourishing me or just marketed as healthy?

Call to Action:
If fatigue, brain fog, or unexplained weight resistance have crept back in — don’t ignore it. Let’s get to the root.

Book a Total Empowerment Consultation wellness.drhellena.comand we’ll review your supplements, labs, and cellular health together.

P.S. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or using plant-based powders daily, this report is your wake-up call. You deserve clean fuel for your comeback — not contaminants disguised as nutrition.

Dr. Hellena is a health coach for survivors and the founder of Alliance MediRehab For Weight Management and Totally Empowered Health and Wellness, where we empower you to optimize your health and take control of your recovery instead of allowing your recovery to control you. If you’d like to know more about our programs for you or your friend, click the link below.