TikTok's latest fad: The protein diet cola controversy
A new viral trend has emerged on TikTok, and young people are buzzing about it. The beloved drink is no longer colourful and sweet energy drinks but a combination of two products.
17 December 2024 18:08
It's a combination of a protein shake and diet cola. Young people are increasingly turning to this combination, and it all began with a simple video posted by a TikTok user who taste-tested it.
The new drink is taking the internet by storm
Rebecca Gordon published a video in September that ignited the trend. She commented: "Welcome to Utah, where PROTEIN Diet Coke rules." The video currently has 2.7 million views and shows Gordon at a petrol station. She then fills a cup with diet cola and adds a vanilla protein shake, Fairlife Core Power.
Christen Kaplan, a certified dietitian and CEO of Love A Wholistic Life, speaks candidly about her views on the new drink.
- The protein diet cola trend is an example of how people are seeking new ways to blend nutrition and convenience. However, it's important to consider the long-term effects of such trends - she remarks in an interview with "Newsweek".
- Diet sodas are artificially sweetened with substances like aspartame or acesulfame potassium, which may interfere with the body's ability to recognise hunger and could increase cravings for sweet foods - adds Kaplan.
Nutritionists advise against it
- This drink has "zero nutritional value". It's saturated with carbon dioxide. Consuming it may be linked to digestive issues, while artificial sweeteners and stabilisers can cause gut problems - explains dietician Katie Sanger in an interview with "Newsweek".
Dr. Chris Mohr, a fitness and nutrition advisor at BarBend, also advises against consuming such a mix.
- Adding protein to a diet soda might seem like a logical way to get an extra energy boost, particularly for those looking to increase their protein intake for muscle recovery or a feeling of fullness, but it shouldn't become a norm - explains Dr. Mohr in Newsweek.pl.
