How to Upgrade to a Cleaner, Safer Protein Powder — The Func Lab Detox Guide
At The Func Lab, we don’t just care about macros — we care about what’s inside those macros. That’s why we’re raising the bar on protein powder quality. If it’s going in your body every day, it better be clean.
Protein shakes are supposed to be good for you — a quick, efficient way to hit your daily protein goals. But recent reports have uncovered a darker side of some mainstream protein powders. Many contain heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium — as well as artificial sweeteners and harmful additives that can wreak havoc on your gut, metabolism, and overall health.
So if you’ve been drinking powder daily without checking what’s in it, it might be time for an upgrade.
The truth is, many top-selling protein powders have been found to contain toxic contaminants, especially those that are not third-party tested or disclose little about where their ingredients come from. Some of these heavy metals are naturally occurring in soil, especially in certain plant-based proteins like rice, but if not tested properly, the levels can go above what’s safe. Over time, chronic exposure can lead to inflammation, organ stress, and fatigue — the exact opposite of what you're using your shake for.
So how do you upgrade?
- Choose protein powders that are transparent about their sourcing and are third-party tested for contaminants. Brands that offer batch-tested results on their websites are a green flag.
- Ditch artificial sweeteners and synthetic additives. If your powder is packed with sucralose, aspartame, or “natural flavors,” it’s time to switch. These additives are known to disrupt gut health and create insulin resistance, even in low doses. Go for stevia, monk fruit, or no sweeteners at all if you’re sensitive.
- Go minimal. A clean shake shouldn’t have more than five to seven ingredients — and you should be able to recognize every single one. Look for products that skip the gums, emulsifiers, and fillers.
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Bonus points if they include added digestive enzymes or probiotics to support absorption and prevent bloating.
Your shake should support your goals, not sabotage them. If you’re going to drink it every day, it’s worth spending a little more time (and maybe money) to make sure it’s doing what it’s supposed to do: nourish your body, support recovery, and help you feel good from the inside out.
