What Protein Supplement Companies Don’t Tell You

While you may believe you are consuming a product that benefits your health, there are two detrimental hidden truths that could be lurking in your protein product.

Truth #1: Proteins are essential for cellular life and health – but they may accelerate aging

Not all protein sources are created equal, and it’s possible that the protein you’re using can cause you to age prematurely. Certain animal-based proteins, such as meat and poultry, and dairy and whey (both common components of protein supplements such as bars, powders, and shakes), when used in excess, can overstimulate the pro-aging pathway IGF-1.

IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) is essential during childhood and adolescence when we are growing and developing. As adults, it is needed for maintaining muscle, tissue, and organ health, and for athletes who need more muscle support; however, when overstimulated it can trigger growth – and accelerate aging. A major meta-analysis study confirmed that when growth is signaled via IGF-1, it pushes all cells, not just muscle cells, to grow via the mTOR pathway, thereby speeding up the biological aging of the body. This can also increase the risk of cancer.

Conversely, inadequate protein intake can lead to low IGF-1 levels, affecting muscle mass and also increasing the risk of cancer, as well as metabolic disorders and cardiovascular issues. Therefore, it is crucial that protein intake be balanced with the optimal amount needed for muscle health while not over or under stimulating IGF-1 – precisely one of the reasons we developed L-Protein. Created with USC’s Longevity Institute and the IFOM Cancer Research Center in Italy, L-Protein is the first patent-pending protein to maintain optimal protein levels (25g of plant-based protein) to protect muscle health without triggering aging pathways.

Truth #2: The protein you are consuming contains silica – and you don’t even know it

Even if you read the ingredients in your protein carefully, there are potentially harmful substances in them that you may not know about. In the U.S., manufacturers are allowed to add unlisted ingredients to their protein supplements – in fact, if an ingredient makes up less than 2% of the product, it doesn’t need to be listed in the ingredients at all!

One common filler used in protein powders is silicon dioxide, also known as silica, which is added as an anticaking agent to prevent clumping and moisture absorption. Other fillers include maltodextrin, cornstarch, cellulose, artificial sweeteners, and various chemical additives. These fillers come with potential health risks, such as allergic reactions (including skin rash, digestive issues, and respiratory problems), digestive issues (bloating, gas, and diarrhea), and potential disruption of blood sugar levels. Furthermore, nanoparticles found in food with these compounds may trigger gastrointestinal problems such as leaky gut syndrome and cause DNA and cell damage when ingested long-term (though more research is needed on this).

When we set out to produce L-Protein, we could not find a single supplier in the US that did not add at least one extra ingredient like silica. After almost two years, we finally found a manufacturer who would make it 100% clean, and L-Protein was born – a complete protein, suitable for everyone, including vegans. What you see listed in our ingredients is what you get: 100% plant-based, soy-free, gluten-free, lactose-free, chemical and filler-free, and low-glycemic. Additionally, it is safe for those with diabetes, other metabolic conditions, and cancer patients, potentially providing the optimal amount of protein needed to sustain muscle health without spiking growth factors that could possibly feed tumors.

As a complete longevity formulation, L-Protein includes ingredients that follow principles of the Longevity Diet (developed by Dr. Valter Longo, drawing on years of research exploring the regions which have the highest population of people living healthily into their 100s), such as extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), extracts from 11 fruits and vegetables, and 21 essential vitamins and minerals. L-Protein exemplifies our mission to create transparent, science-based, accessible solutions that address specific health needs and support the addition of vibrant years to people’s lives, taking pivotal steps toward a healthier future for everyone!