Each pack (26 grams) contains: Vega Protein Blend: Pea Protein , Saviseed (Sachia inchi) protein, Hemp seed protein, sprouted whole grain Brwon Rice protein • Dutch Cocoa powder, natural Chocolate flavor, Vega Green Blend: organic Alfalfa grass powder, Spinach powder, Broccoli powder, organic Kale powder • Papaya concentrate powder (contains naturally occurring Enzymes) • Stevia leaf extract • Xanthan Gum .
Brand name products often contain multiple ingredients. To read detailed information about each ingredient, click on the link for the individual ingredient shown above.
Below is general information about the effectiveness of the known ingredients contained in the product Vega Protein Smoothie (Choc-a-lot flavor). Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
INSUFFICIENT RELIABLE EVIDENCE to RATE
Below is general information about the safety of the known ingredients contained in the product Vega Protein Smoothie (Choc-a-lot flavor). Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the leaves are used orally and appropriately, short-term (4,6,12).
LIKELY UNSAFE ...when large amounts are used long-term. Chronic ingestion of alfalfa has been associated with drug-induced lupus effects (381,14828,30602).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in medicinal amounts.
Alfalfa contains constituents with possible estrogenic activity (4,11,30592).
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in food amounts (14145). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in food amounts (14145).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of broccoli when used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy and lactation; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately (13161,14306,14307,14308,15655,15752,17187,92271,92274,103247)(103250,108898). However, cocoa naturally contains caffeine, and caffeine may be unsafe when used orally in doses of more than 400 mg daily (11733,98806). While most cocoa products contain only small amounts of caffeine (about 2-35 mg per serving) (2708,3900), one cup of unsweetened, dry cocoa powder can contain up to 198 mg of caffeine (100515). To be on the safe side, cocoa should be used in amounts that provide less than 400 mg of caffeine daily. Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine naturally found in ingredients such as cocoa does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product. Cocoa and dark chocolate products worldwide also contain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. In the US, one ounce (approximately 28 grams) of most commercially available dark chocolate products tested contained levels of lead and/or cadmium above the maximum allowable dose level for California, with cadmium levels generally increasing with the percentage of cocoa (109847,109848,109849). Advise patients to consume cocoa in moderation. ...when used topically. Cocoa butter is used extensively as a base for ointments and suppositories and is generally considered safe (11).
CHILDREN: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when dark chocolate is used orally.
Cocoa and dark chocolate products worldwide contain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. In the US, one ounce (approximately 28 grams) of most commercially available dark chocolate products tested contained levels of lead and/or cadmium above the maximum allowable dose level for California, with cadmium levels generally increasing with the percentage of cocoa (109847,109848,109849). Children are at increased risk of adverse effects from intake of lead and/or cadmium. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of other chocolate-based products that typically contain smaller quantities of cocoa.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used orally in moderate amounts.
However, due to the caffeine content of cocoa preparations, intake should be closely monitored during pregnancy to ensure moderate consumption. Fetal blood concentrations of caffeine approximate maternal concentrations (4260). Some research has found that intrauterine exposure to even modest amounts of caffeine, based on maternal blood levels during the first trimester, is associated with a shorter stature in children ages 4-8 years (109846). While many cocoa products contain only small amounts of caffeine (about 2-35 mg per serving) (2708,3900), unsweetened, dry cocoa powder can contain up to 198 mg of caffeine per cup (100515). According to a review by Health Canada, and a subsequent large meta-analysis conducted in the US, doses of up to 300 mg daily can be consumed during pregnancy without an increased risk of spontaneous abortion, still birth, preterm birth, fetal growth retardation, or congenital malformations (11733,98806). To be on the safe side, cocoa should be used in amounts that provide less than 300 mg of caffeine daily. Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine found in ingredients such as cocoa, which naturally contains caffeine, does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Caffeine found in cocoa crosses the placenta producing fetal blood concentrations similar to maternal levels (4260). Consumption of caffeine in amounts over 300 mg daily is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage in some studies (16014,98806). Additionally, high intake of caffeine during pregnancy have been associated with premature delivery, low birth weight, and loss of the fetus (6). While many cocoa products contain only small amounts of caffeine (about 2-35 mg per serving) (2708,3900), unsweetened, dry cocoa powder can contain up to 198 mg of caffeine per cup (100515). To be on the safe side, cocoa should be used in amounts that provide less than 300 mg of caffeine daily (2708). Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine found in ingredients such as cocoa, which naturally contains caffeine, does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product. Cocoa and dark chocolate products worldwide also contain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. In the US, one ounce (approximately 28 grams) of most commercially available dark chocolate products tested contained levels of lead and/or cadmium above the maximum allowable dose level for California, with cadmium levels generally increasing with the percentage of cocoa (109847,109848,109849). Large doses or excessive intake of cocoa should be avoided during pregnancy.
LACTATION: POSSIBLY SAFE
when used in moderate amounts or in amounts commonly found in foods.
Due to the caffeine content of cocoa preparations, intake should be closely monitored while breastfeeding. During lactation, breast milk concentrations of caffeine are thought to be approximately 50% of serum concentrations. Moderate consumption of cocoa would likely result in very small amounts of caffeine exposure to a nursing infant (6). Keep in mind that only the amount of ADDED caffeine must be stated on product labels. The amount of caffeine found in ingredients such as cocoa, which naturally contains caffeine, does not need to be provided. This can make it difficult to determine the total amount of caffeine in a given product.
LACTATION: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when used orally in large amounts.
Consumption of excess chocolate (16 oz per day) may cause irritability and increased bowel activity in the infant (6026). Cocoa and dark chocolate products worldwide also contain heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. In the US, one ounce (approximately 28 grams) of most commercially available dark chocolate products tested contained levels of lead and/or cadmium above the maximum allowable dose level for California, with cadmium levels generally increasing with the percentage of cocoa (109847,109848,109849). Large doses or excessive intake of cocoa should be avoided during lactation.
LIKELY SAFE ...when hemp seed, hemp protein, and hemp seed oil are used orally in food amounts. Hulled hemp seed, hemp seed protein powder, and hemp seed oil are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) in the US (100531).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when hemp seed oil is used orally and appropriately as medicine, short-term. Hemp seed oil in doses of 2-6.3 grams daily has been safely used for 3-6 months (88183,16791,101145). Hemp seed oil in doses of 30 mL (27.6 grams) daily has been used safely for 2 months (101125). There is insufficient reliable evidence available about the safety of hemp oil, flowers, or leaves.
CHILDREN:
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of hemp in children.
Adverse effects have been noted in case reports, but details related to specific hemp products are limited (101153,110287).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used in amounts commonly found in foods. There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of kale when used orally in medicinal amounts.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used orally in amounts commonly found in foods.
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of kale when used orally in medicinal amounts; avoid use.
LIKELY SAFE ...when the ripe fruit is used orally in amounts commonly found in foods. Papaya has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when the leaf extract is used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts, short term. The leaf extract has been used with apparent safety in doses of up to 3300 mg daily for up to 5 days (102799,102800). ...when the ripe fruit is used topically and appropriately, short term. The fruit has been applied with apparent safety to the gingiva or skin for up to 10 days (93090,93091).
POSSIBLY UNSAFE ...when the unripe fruit containing papaya latex and raw papain is used orally. Raw papain has been reported to cause esophageal perforation (6,93083). ...when papaya latex is used topically. Papaya latex, which contains raw papain, is a severe irritant and vesicant (6).
PREGNANCY: LIKELY SAFE
when the ripe fruit is consumed in amounts commonly found in foods.
PREGNANCY: POSSIBLY UNSAFE
when the unripe fruit containing papaya latex is used orally; avoid using.
There is some concern that crude papain, a constituent of papaya latex, is teratogenic and embryotoxic (6); however, this might be due to extraneous substances rather than papain (11). Some evidence also suggests that high doses of papaya seed extract have abortifacient activity and can adversely affect fetal development (67870). Theoretically, eating large amounts of papaya seeds may have similar effects.
LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when the ripe fruit is consumed in amounts commonly found in foods.
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of using papaya medicinally; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used orally in food amounts. Pea protein is commonly consumed as a food (94935,94970,94981).
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when pea protein is used orally in medicinal amounts, short term. Pea protein has been used with apparent safety in doses of up to 50 grams daily for up to 12 weeks (95426,94934,102013,104758,104759). ...when pea protein hydrolysate is used orally, short term. A pea protein hydrolysate has been used with apparent safety at doses of up to 3 grams daily for up to 3 weeks (94973).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using in amounts greater than those found in food.
LIKELY SAFE ...when used in amounts commonly found in foods.
POSSIBLY SAFE ...when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts. Spinach has been used with apparent safety at a dose of 5 grams daily for up to 12 weeks (96856).
CHILDREN: LIKELY SAFE
when consumed in the amounts commonly found in foods by children older than 4 months of age (18).
CHILDREN: LIKELY UNSAFE
when used orally in infants under 4 months old; the high nitrate content of spinach can cause methemoglobinemia (18).
There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of spinach in children when used in medicinal amounts.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION: LIKELY SAFE
when used in amounts commonly found in foods; avoid medicinal amounts.
LIKELY SAFE ...when certain stevia constituents, including stevioside and rebaudiosides A, D, and M, are used orally as sweeteners in foods. These constituents have generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status in the US for this purpose (16699,16700,16702,16705,16706,108049). The stevia constituent stevioside has been safely used in doses of up to 1500 mg daily for 2 years (11809,11810,11811). There is insufficient reliable information available about the safety of whole stevia or stevia extracts when used orally. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has determined that the acceptable intake of steviol glycosides is 4 mg/kg daily (106456); however, it is unclear how this relates to the use of whole stevia or stevia extract.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
LIKELY SAFE ...when consumed in amounts found in foods, up to 10 mg/kg per day (4914). It has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status in the US (4912). ...when used orally for medicinal use in amounts up to 15 grams per day (4914,4916,4917,4918). ...when used topically and appropriately (4914,89591,95794).
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION:
Insufficient reliable information is available; avoid using in amounts greater than those found in foods.
Below is general information about the interactions of the known ingredients contained in the product Vega Protein Smoothie (Choc-a-lot flavor). Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
Theoretically, alfalfa might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
 Details
|
Theoretically, alfalfa might interfere with the activity of contraceptive drugs.
Details
|
Theoretically, alfalfa might interfere with hormone therapy.
Details
|
Theoretically, alfalfa might decrease the efficacy of immunosuppressive therapy.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use of alfalfa with photosensitizing drugs might have additive effects.
Details
Animal research suggests that excessive doses of alfalfa may increase photosensitivity, possibly due to its chlorophyll content (106043). It is unclear if this effect would be clinically relevant in humans.
|
Theoretically, alfalfa might reduce the anticoagulant activity of warfarin.
Details
|
Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
Details
|
Theoretically, broccoli might reduce the levels and effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2A6.
Details
Pharmacokinetic research in humans shows that eating 500 grams of broccoli daily for 6 days increases CYP2A6 activity by 135% to 550%. Induction of CYP2A6 activity is attributed to its glucosinolate constituents (19608).
|
Theoretically, taking cocoa with ACEIs might increase the risk of adverse effects.
Details
|
Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the vasodilatory effects of adenosine and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine is a competitive inhibitor of adenosine at the cellular level. However, caffeine does not seem to affect supplemental adenosine because high interstitial levels of adenosine overcome the antagonistic effects of caffeine. It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests. However, methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Alcohol reduces caffeine metabolism. Concomitant use of alcohol can increase caffeine serum concentrations and the risk of caffeine adverse effects (6370).
|
Theoretically, cocoa may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Details
Clinical research shows that intake of cocoa can inhibit platelet adhesion, aggregation, and activity (6085,17076,41928,41948,41957,41958,41995,42014,42070,42145)(111526) and increase aspirin-induced bleeding time (23800). For patients on dual antiplatelet therapy, cocoa may enhance the inhibitory effect of clopidogrel, but not aspirin, on platelet aggregation (111526).
|
Theoretically, taking cocoa with antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.
Details
|
Theoretically, large amounts of cocoa might increase the cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Theoretically, large amounts of caffeine might increase cardiac inotropic effects of beta-agonists (15). A case of atrial fibrillation associated with consumption of large quantities of chocolate in a patient with chronic albuterol inhalation abuse has also been reported (42075).
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine in cocoa.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the effects and adverse effects of caffeine found in cocoa.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine is metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) (3941,5051,11741,23557,23573,23580,24958,24959,24960,24962), (24964,24965,24967,24968,24969,24971,38081,48603). Theoretically, drugs that inhibit CYP1A2 may decrease the clearance rate of caffeine from cocoa and increase caffeine levels.
|
Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the vasodilatory effects of dipyridamole and interfere with its use prior to stress testing.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine may inhibit dipyridamole-induced vasodilation (11770,11772). It is recommended that methylxanthines and methylxanthine-containing products be stopped 24 hours prior to pharmacological stress tests (11770). Methylxanthines appear more likely to interfere with dipyridamole than adenosine-induced stress testing (11771).
|
Theoretically, disulfiram might increase the risk of adverse effects from caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. In human research, disulfiram decreases the rate of caffeine clearance (11840).
|
Theoretically, using cocoa with diuretic drugs might increase the risk of hypokalemia.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk for stimulant adverse effects.
Details
|
Theoretically, estrogens might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Estrogen inhibits caffeine metabolism (2714).
|
Theoretically, fluconazole might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Fluconazole decreases caffeine clearance by approximately 25% (11022).
|
Theoretically, cocoa might increase the levels and adverse effects of flutamide.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. In vitro evidence suggests that caffeine can inhibit the metabolism of flutamide (23553).
|
Theoretically, fluvoxamine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Fluvoxamine reduces caffeine metabolism (6370).
|
Theoretically, abrupt cocoa withdrawal might increase the levels and adverse effects of lithium.
Details
|
Theoretically, methoxsalen might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Methoxsalen can reduce caffeine metabolism (23572).
|
Theoretically, metformin might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that metformin can reduce caffeine metabolism (23571).
|
Theoretically, mexiletine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of a hypertensive crisis.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Large amounts of caffeine with MAOIs might precipitate a hypertensive crisis (15).
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the risk of hypertension.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Concomitant use of caffeine and nicotine has been shown to have additive cardiovascular effects, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. Blood pressure was increased by 10.8/12.4 mmHg when the agents were used concomitantly (36549).
|
Theoretically, cocoa might decrease the effects of pentobarbital.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine might negate the hypnotic effects of pentobarbital (13742).
|
Theoretically, cocoa might reduce the effects of phenobarbital and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
|
Theoretically, phenothiazines might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
|
Theoretically, phenylpropanolamine might increase the risk of hypertension, as well as the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
|
Theoretically, cocoa might reduce the effects of phenytoin and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
|
Theoretically, quinolone antibiotics might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase the levels and adverse effects of both caffeine and riluzole.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Caffeine and riluzole are both metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2, and concomitant use might reduce metabolism of one or both agents (11739).
|
Theoretically, concomitant use might increase stimulant adverse effects.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Concomitant use might increase the risk of stimulant adverse effects (11832).
|
Theoretically, terbinafine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Terbinafine decreases the rate of caffeine clearance (11740).
|
Theoretically, cocoa might increase the levels and adverse effects of theophylline.
Details
|
Theoretically, cocoa tea might increase the levels and adverse effects of tiagabine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Animal research suggests that chronic caffeine administration can increase the serum concentrations of tiagabine. However, concomitant use does not seem to reduce the antiepileptic effects of tiagabine (23561).
|
Theoretically, ticlopidine might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. In vitro evidence suggests that ticlopidine can inhibit caffeine metabolism (23557). However, this effect has not been reported in humans.
|
Theoretically, cocoa might reduce the effects of valproate and increase the risk for convulsions.
Details
|
Theoretically, verapamil might increase the levels and adverse effects of caffeine.
Details
Cocoa contains caffeine. Verapamil increases plasma caffeine concentrations by 25% (11741).
|
Theoretically, consuming hemp seed protein isolate with ACE inhibitors might have additive effects and increase the risk of hypotension.
Details
|
Theoretically, hemp seed might increase the risk of bleeding when used concomitantly with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
Details
|
Theoretically, hemp seed protein may have additive effects with antihypertensive drugs.
Details
In a hypertensive animal model, hemp seed protein hydrolysate reduced systolic blood pressure by a mechanism possibly involving the inhibition of renin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activities. However, there was no effect of hemp seed protein on blood pressure in normotensive animals (101136). Furthermore, hempseed oil consumption does not seem to reduce blood pressure in humans (101144).
|
Theoretically, hemp might interfere with hormone therapy due to its estrogenic effects.
Details
In an ovariectomized animal model, a diet containing hemp seed 1%, 2%, or 10% resulted in normalized plasma levels of 17-beta-estradiol (101132). The mechanism of action for this effect is unclear.
|
Theoretically, papaya extract may increase the levels and clinical effects of amiodarone.
Details
Animal research in rats shows that a single oral dose of papaya extract, as well as multiple doses of papaya extract daily over 14 days, prior to a single dose of amiodarone delays the time to maximum amiodarone concentration. However, only the 14-day papaya extract regimen increases systemic amiodarone exposure by 60% to 70% (93093). This interaction has not been reported in humans.
|
Concomitant use of antidiabetic drugs with fermented papaya can produce additive effects. It is unclear if other forms of papaya have the same effect.
Details
A small low-quality clinical study in patients with type 2 diabetes who are taking glibenclamide shows that taking a fermented papaya preparation 3 grams daily for 2 months decreases fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels when compared to baseline. Additionally, of the 25 patients in the study, 9 required a reduction in glibenclamide dose (67902).
|
Theoretically, consuming large quantities of papaya fruit can reduce the clinical effects of levothyroxine.
Details
In one case-report, a 37-year-old male with a history of thyroidectomy who was stabilized on levothyroxine for 5 years presented with hypothyroidism after consuming 5-6 papaya fruits daily for 14 days during vacation. In a controlled re-challenge test involving 5-6 papayas daily, the patient remained euthyroid for 7 days, but developed mild hypothyroidism after 14 days. Both times, thyroid levels normalized 40-45 days after discontinuing papaya (93087).
|
Theoretically, concomitant use of warfarin with papain-containing papaya extract might increase the effects and side effects of warfarin.
Details
In one case report, a patient previously stable on warfarin was found to have an international normalization ratio (INR) of 7.4, which was attributed to ingestion of a supplement containing papain from papaya extract (613).
|
Spinach contains vitamin K, which can interfere with the activity of warfarin.
Details
In human research, although eating spinach with one meal does not result in coagulation test results outside the therapeutic range, daily consumption for one week necessitates dose adjustment of warfarin (19600). Individuals using anticoagulants should consume a consistent daily amount of spinach to maintain the effect of anticoagulant therapy (19).
|
Theoretically, stevia might increase the risk for hypoglycemia when combined with antidiabetes drugs.
Details
Preliminary clinical research in patients with type 2 diabetes suggests that taking a single dose of stevia extract 1000 mg reduces postprandial blood glucose levels when taken with a meal (11812). However, other clinical research in patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes suggests that taking stevioside 250 mg three times daily does not significantly affect blood glucose levels or glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) after three months of treatment (16705).
|
Theoretically, combining stevia or stevia constituents with antihypertensive agents might increase the risk of hypotension.
Details
|
Theoretically, stevia might decrease clearance and increase levels of lithium.
Details
|
Theoretically, xanthan gum can alter the absorption of oral drugs due to its fiber qualities. Xanthan gum slows gastric emptying and has been used to control the release of drugs in tablet formulations (4916,104058). To avoid any alterations in drug absorption, xanthan gum should be taken 30-60 minutes after oral medications.
|
Below is general information about the adverse effects of the known ingredients contained in the product Vega Protein Smoothie (Choc-a-lot flavor). Some ingredients may not be listed. This information does NOT represent a recommendation for or a test of this specific product as a whole.
General
...Orally, alfalfa leaf seems to be well tolerated.
However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and flatulence.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Lupus-like syndrome after chronic ingestion of alfalfa.
Dermatologic ...Dermatitis associated with alfalfa use has been reported. In a 1954 publication, dermatitis was noted in a 61-year-old female consuming 4-6 cups of tea made with two tablespoonfuls of alfalfa seeds for approximately two months prior to onset. Examination revealed diffuse, confluent edema and erythema on the face, eyelids, ears, hands, forearms, and distal humeral regions. The dermatitis improved with treatment; re-exposure to alfalfa resulted in a similar reaction (30609).
Endocrine
...Alfalfa contains constituents, including coumestrol, with reported estrogenic activity (30586,30592,4753).
Effects in humans are not known.
One case report documents hypokalemia in a female who had been drinking a "cleansing tea" containing alfalfa, licorice, and stinging nettle. The potassium level returned to normal after discontinuing the tea and initiating potassium supplementation. The specific cause of the hypokalemia is not clear. Notably, both stinging nettle and licorice have been associated with hypokalemia and may have been responsible for this effect (30562).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, flatulence and bulkier feces were reported during the first week of a case series of three subjects ingesting alfalfa (30598). In a case series of 15 patients ingesting alfalfa, increased fecal volume and increased stool frequency was reported. Additional adverse effects included abdominal discomfort in two patients, diarrhea in two patients, loose stools in six patients, and intestinal gas in 13 patients (5816).
Hematologic ...Pancytopenia and splenomegaly were reported in a 59-year-old male who had been taking 80-160 grams of ground alfalfa seeds for up to six weeks at a time, for a five month period. Hematologic values and spleen size returned to normal when alfalfa was discontinued (381).
Other
...Alfalfa products, including sprouts, seeds, and tablets, have been found to be contaminated with Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Listeria monocytogenes, which have caused documented infections (5600,30566,30568,30572,30569,30564,30604,30610,30563,30607) (30566,30564,30604,30610,30563,30607,30576).
Orally, alfalfa has been associated with the development of a lupus-like syndrome in animals and humans (30594,14828,14830,30602), as well as with possible exacerbations of lupus in patients with known systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These reactions may be associated with the amino acid L-canavanine (30594), which appears to be present in alfalfa seeds and sprouts, but not leaves, and therefore should not be present in alfalfa tablets manufactured from the leaves (30601). However, case reports have included individuals ingesting tablets. A lupus-like syndrome was described in four patients taking 12-24 alfalfa tablets per day. Symptoms included arthralgias, myalgias, and rash; positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA) arose anywhere from three weeks to seven months after initiating alfalfa therapy. Upon discontinuation of alfalfa tablets, all four patients became asymptomatic. In two patients, ANA levels normalized (14828). Two additional reports have documented possible exacerbation or induction of SLE associated with alfalfa use. One case involved a female with a 26-year history of SLE, who had been taking 15 tablets of alfalfa daily for nine months prior to an exacerbation. Because of the delay in onset of the exacerbation from the initiation of alfalfa therapy, causation cannot be clearly established (30575). In a different report, SLE and arthritis were found in multiple family members who had been taking a combination of vitamin E and alfalfa tablets for seven years (30602). It is not known what other environmental or genetic factors may have affected these individuals, and the association with alfalfa is unclear.
General ...Broccoli is well tolerated when consumed as food. A thorough evaluation of safety outcomes when broccoli is taken as medicine has not been conducted.
Dermatologic ...Topically, allergic reactions to broccoli have caused contact dermatitis (14158).
Hepatic ...In one case report, a 56-year-old adult developed elevated transaminases, with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 5. 8 times above normal, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 2.4 times above normal, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) 5.1 times above normal. This was thought to be related to the consumption of 800 mL of broccoli juice daily over a 4-week period. Values returned to normal 15 days after cessation of juice consumption (96191).
Immunologic ...Topically, allergic reactions to broccoli have caused contact dermatitis (14158).
General
...Orally and topically, cocoa is generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Borborygmi, constipation, diuresis, gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, and nausea.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Tachycardia.
Cardiovascular ...Some cases of increased heart rate have been reported with oral cocoa use (13161,42132).
Dermatologic ...In some cases, when taken orally, cocoa can cause allergic skin reactions (13161). Topically, cocoa butter has occasionally caused a rash. In animals, it has been shown to block pores and cause acne; however, this has not been found in humans (11).
Gastrointestinal ...In human trials, chocolate consumption was associated with a higher incidence of flatulence, irritable bowel syndrome, upset stomach, gastric upset, borborygmi (a gurgling noise made by fluid or gas in the intestines), bloating, nausea, vomiting, and constipation or obstipation (41986,42221,41921,1374,42220,1373,42099,42097,42156,42123,18229,42169,42111). Chocolate consumption has been implicated as a provoking factor in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (41974,42005,41946,1374). Unpalatability has been reported (42079,42169). Consumption of chocolate and other sweet foods may lead to increased dental caries (42129,42030).
Genitourinary ...In some cases, when taken orally, cocoa can cause increased urination (13161).
Neurologic/CNS ...In some cases, when taken orally, cocoa can cause shakiness and might trigger migraine and other headaches (13161,42169,92271).
Other ...Due to the high sugar and caloric content of chocolate, there is concern about weight gain in people who consume large amounts of chocolate (17187).
General
...Orally, hemp products are generally well tolerated in food amounts.
In larger amounts, hemp seed oil seems to be well tolerated.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Rare cases of anaphylaxis have been reported. Long QT syndrome, torsades de pointes, and syncope have also been reported rarely.
Cardiovascular ...Acquired long QT syndrome, torsades de pointes, and syncope have been reported in a 56-year-old woman following the intake of supplements containing hemp oil. The hemp supplements provided cannabidiol (CBD), and possibly cannabigerol (CBG). Although the exact dose is unknown, up to six times the recommended dose had been used for approximately 6 weeks, in combination with a supplement containing berberine. While hospitalized, intravenous magnesium and saline were used to stabilize heart rhythm. It is unknown whether this adverse effect was related to the hemp oil, berberine, or their interaction (110104).
Hepatic ...Orally, there is a case report of elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis in a two-year-old boy given hemp extract 2. 5 mL, providing 125 mg phytocannabinoid, five to eight times daily for infantile spasms and refractory seizures. The total dose of phytocannabinoids was approximately 60-100 mg/kg daily (110287).
Immunologic
...Orally, there are case reports of allergy to hemp seed, although this is uncommon (101140,101154).
A 44-year-old male developed hives during a meal of hemp seed-crusted seafoods. Later, he developed facial swelling, shortness of breath, and problems speaking. Evaluation revealed allergy to a specific protein in hemp seed. He did not react to smoked cannabis (101140). In other cases, anaphylaxis, facial swelling, and worsening asthma have been reported in association with a first exposure to hemp seed, although some had smoked cannabis previously (101154).
Topically, a case of patch-test confirmed allergic contact dermatitis to hemp seed oil has been reported in a 22-year-old woman. The initial rash started at the application point on her back and spread to her arms, hands, and neck (110288).
Airborne exposure to hemp pollen is a relatively common cause of allergic respiratory symptoms in some locations (101155).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, cases of acute cannabinoid toxicity with neurological symptoms in children and adults have been associated with intake of hemp seed oil. There is a case report of decreased alertness, stupor, bloodshot eyes, and fixed gaze in a 2-year-old male probably related to the intake of one teaspoon hemp seed oil (CANAH) containing 0.06% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) twice daily for 3 weeks. After stopping the oil, irritability was reported over the next few days (101153).
General ...Orally, kale is generally well tolerated when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods. No adverse effects have been reported with medicinal use. However, a thorough evaluation of safety outcomes has not been conducted.
General
...Orally, papaya fruit is well tolerated when consumed in food amounts.
Papaya leaf extract seems to be generally well tolerated.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Orally: Nausea and vomiting from papaya leaf extract.
Topically: Burning sensation from unripe papaya.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Severe allergic reactions.
Dermatologic
...Orally, high doses of papaya might cause yellow skin discoloration.
A case of carotenemia has been reported for a 42-year-old female who consumed 1.5-2 papayas daily for 6 months. The condition resolved when she stopped eating papayas (67929).
Topically, unripe papaya fruit may cause occasional burning sensation when applied to skin ulcers (67856).
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, the leaf extract has been reported to cause nausea and vomiting in clinical research (102799). A case of esophageal perforation has been reported for a previously healthy 27-year-old female who used papain, a constituent of papaya latex, to digest a piece of meat stuck in her esophagus (93083).
Immunologic ...Orally, papain, a constituent of raw, unripe papaya, has been reported to cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including itchy watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, abdominal cramps, sweating, and diarrhea (6,967). Papaya may also cause hypersensitivity reactions such as systemic contact dermatitis, which occur more commonly in people who are allergic to latex (6197,7853,57635). A case of systemic contact dermatitis has been reported for a 55-year-old female with no prior history of atopic disease or drug allergy after ingesting a throat lozenge containing papaya juice (67942).
Other ...In regions with arsenic-contaminated soil, papaya fruits contain a higher mean concentration of arsenic compared with many other forms of vegetation grown in the regions. Eating papaya from these regions is thought to contribute to higher dietary levels of arsenic (32461,67879).
General
...Orally, pea protein seems to be well tolerated.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: Anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals.
Immunologic ...Orally, pea protein may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to other foods. A case series describes 6 children who had anaphylactic reactions to pea protein present in a number of food items. Other symptoms included angioedema, urticaria, and asthma. All the children had a history of allergies to other foods including peanuts, tree nuts, chickpeas, lentils, or kidney beans (102012).
General
...Orally, spinach is well tolerated when consumed as a food.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Orally: In infants under 4 months of age, methemoglobinemia has been reported.
All routes of administration: Allergies in sensitive individuals.
Dermatologic ...Topically, contact dermatitis has been reported from spinach in a 54-year-old female farmer (41757).
Gastrointestinal ...Bagged spinach has been linked to Escherichia coli outbreaks, sometimes causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms and even death (75846,75847,75849,75851,96858).
Hematologic ...Orally, spinach ingestion by infants under 4 months of age can cause methemoglobinemia, due to its high nitrate content (75802,75858,75860,75861,75862).
Immunologic ...Orally, topically, and via inhalation, spinach has been reported to cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals (75870,96859).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Lung inflammation associated with allergic alveolitis has been reported after inhalation of spinach powder (75871). The powder has also been reported to induce occupational asthma in a spinach factory worker (75833).
General
...Orally, stevia and steviol glycosides appear to be well tolerated.
Most minor adverse effects seem to resolve after the first week of use.
Most Common Adverse Effects:
Abdominal bloating, dizziness, headache, myalgia, nausea, and numbness.
Serious Adverse Effects (Rare):
Allergic reactions.
Gastrointestinal ...Orally, stevia and steviol glycosides such as stevioside, can cause gastrointestinal adverse effects such as abdominal fullness and nausea. However, these generally resolve after the first week of use (11809,11810).
Immunologic ...Theoretically, stevia might cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (11811). Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many other herbs.
Musculoskeletal ...Orally, stevia and steviol glycosides may cause myalgia, but this generally resolves after the first week of use (11809,11810).
Neurologic/CNS ...Orally, stevia and steviol glycosides may cause headache, dizziness, and numbness (11809,11810).
General ...Orally, xanthan gum can cause flatulence and abdominal distention (4916,4918). Topically, it has been reported to cause allergic reactions (100914).
Immunologic ...An itchy, burning dermatitis was reported in a 9-year old girl after application of a sunscreen product containing xanthan gum. Patch testing with the separate ingredients of the sunscreen identified xanthan gum as the reacting agent, and demonstrated a dose-dependent effect with 1% and 10% solutions (100914).
Pulmonary/Respiratory ...Occupational exposure in workers handling xanthan gum powder can cause flu-like symptoms and nose and throat irritation without acute or chronic loss of pulmonary function (4913).
