Over a million Americans engage in some form of exercise daily to cut down some weight, maintain or increase their metabolic state or build rock-hard abs. Whatever maybe the reason, thousands of Americans have been digging the threadmill. Post work out energy fuel is usually used and suggested by health enthusiasts for exercises lasting more than 1-2 hours or more. It is usually consumed during the 30 min to 1 hour 'window of opportunity' period where muscles are engaged and needs utmost refueling. Post work out fuel is composed mainly of fast digesting sugar and protein for building muscles. This is usually in a form of smoothies because it is one easy way to just drink it all up in one go.

Whey protein is considered to be one of the most consumed protein sources among weight lifters, or even an average gym-hitting person but do people actually know about the dangers it may cause? Heidi Skolnik, a New Jersey-based sport's nutritionist emphasized the importance of being vigilant and choosing the right Whey protein as it is crucial for muscle growth and development. 'Look for Whey protein isolate-not concentrate-as it contains the highest protein concentration and a very little fat,' she said. 

The downside of considering to incorporate Whey protein in you post work out smoothies than any other protein sources such as casein, soy or hemp is that, it is a derivative of milk which is not for those people who are lactose intolerant which is about 60% of American adults. Consumer reports suggests that Whey protein isolates contain trace minerals of heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury which can be both toxic and carcinogenic according to an article from Livestrong Study. Research studies demonstrated in humans suggest that Whey protein is incompletely digested in our gastrointestinal tract increasing the potential for stomach upset and bloating. A study also proves that Whey protein can actually destroy muscle tissue.

Shocking as it may seem but your delicious post work out drink might be actually bad for you but just like the famous cliché, 'moderation is the only rule for a healthy life.'