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Everything I tried was full of junk and cheap fillers that caused bloating and weight gain, the total opposite of what I wanted, so I was compelled to create a protein supplement that really was good for me and provided the perfect nutritional support I needed. Healthy Chef Protein is specifically designed to be the purest, bio-available source of protein that does not cause bloating or gastro-intestinal issues. It is low in fat, low in carbohydrates, high in protein and free of soy, sugar and gluten.
Here’s what you DON’T want in a protein powder:
1. Casein + WPC
These are also known as whey protein concentrate and caseinate. WPC’s and casein protein sources are high in lactose and poorly absorbed, which can often cause bloating, flatulence, and gastrointestinal distress in some people. It’s quite ironic that these powders actually started off as a weight gainer in medical institutions!
2. Gluten
Food sensitivities to gluten can elevate inflammation in some people and cause a range of health problems including hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, fatigue, mood swings, and headaches.
3. Dextrins/Maltodextrin
These ingredients can raise glycemic load, which may contribute to fat storage. Most are processed with GMO corn and they can also cause gastrointestinal distress in some people. They are mostly added to protein powders as fillers to bulk it out or make the protein mix easier.
4. Artificial sweeteners
Common artificial sweeteners used are sucralose, splenda (955), aspartamine, equal, NutraSweet (951), or saccharin (954). Several negative side effects can come from ingesting these ingredients, including headaches, migraines, gastric distress such as bloating, acid reflux and weight gain.
5. Skim milk powders/milk solids
Skim milk powders and milk solids are often used as a cheap bulking agent in lower quality powders. They are high in lactose sugars, which can cause bloating, gastrointestinal distress, constipation, and loose stools.
6. Soy protein
Some soy proteins come from genetically-modified sources with high pesticide use. They contain chemical compounds which may cause hormonal disturbances in some people.
7. Vegetable oils and fats
These ingredients are often added to many weight loss and protein powders to increase richness and make them taste creamy. However, these fats are often derived from hydrogenated sources that contain trans fats, which are thought to be more harmful than saturated fats. Trans fats raise levels of bad cholesterol and lower levels of good cholesterol.
8. Thickeners and gums
Thickeners and gums, including xanthin gum, are manufactured from soy or corn and can cause bloating, constipation and gas. They are little like glue in my digestive system.
9. Fillers
Fillers are often added to bulk up the protein and save money for the manufacturer. Some fillers include ingredients such as coconut flour, psyllium, sugar, which can cause gastric distress such as bloating, constipation and reflux in people who are susceptible to digestive issues.
10. Added fibres
Added fibres in protein powders are often included as a filler or weight management tool. For me personally, it causes gastric distress, constipation and bloating as I have a particularly sensitive digestive system. The cleaner your protein powder, the better and the best fibres are obtained from plant-based leafy greens, vegetables and fruits.