Introduction:
Protein supplements are commonly used by an increasing group of people practicing bodybuilding. The chronic use of supplements may constitute a potential health risk for consumers because of possible exposure to certain micro-contaminations, e.g. toxic metals.

Objectives:
The aim of the study was to assess the exposure of strength sports practitioners to toxic metals from protein supplements available on the Polish market.

Material and methods:
52 protein supplements from different manufacturers’ brands were examined. In the samples, the concentrations of cadmium, lead and mercury were determined. In order to analyze cadmium and lead content the atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomization method was used. The mercury content was determined by the technique of cold vapour generation by the method of fluorescent atomic spectrometry.

Results:
The study showed that the exposure of strength sports practitioners to cadmium and lead is negligible. The mercury content in each sample was higher than the maximum permissible concentration. The health risk assessment did not show a significant threat to the health of bodybuilders using standard portions of the analyzed protein nutrients. There were no statistically significant differences in exposure to mercury between consumers depending on taste and price of protein supplements

Conclusions:
In order to improve health safety of strength sports practitioners who consume protein supplements it is recommended to conduct a detailed control of the chemical ingredients of these supplements. It is important to increase the awareness of people practicing bodybuilding on the potential health hazard associated with the use of protein supplements.