Dietitian Reacts to TikTok’s New “Protein Soda” Trend

The “protein soda” trend has recently gained popularity on social media platforms like TikTok, where users mix pre-made protein shakes with diet sodas to create a creamy, carbonated beverage. This combination aims to enhance protein intake while enjoying a familiar fizzy drink. However, health experts have raised concerns about this trend.

Understanding the Protein Soda Trend

Originating from Utah, the “protein soda” trend involves combining diet soda with a vanilla protein shake, resulting in a beverage reminiscent of an ice cream float. TikTok creator Rebecca Gordon popularized this concoction by sharing her experience of mixing Diet Coke with Fairlife’s Core Power vanilla milk, describing it as a “10/10” experience.

Health Considerations

While the idea of boosting protein intake through a tasty beverage may seem appealing, health professionals advise caution:

• Sugar Content: Pre-made protein shakes often contain significant amounts of sugar. Mixing them with diet soda, which is typically sugar-free, can negate the benefits of choosing a low-sugar beverage. Dr. Zac Turner notes that some protein shakes have more sugar than protein, potentially undermining health goals.

• Digestive Issues: The carbonation in diet sodas, combined with artificial sweeteners, may lead to bloating or discomfort. Nutritionist Scott Keatley points out that these components can be hard to digest and lack substantial nutritional value.

• Artificial Sweeteners: Diet sodas often contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame. While generally considered safe in moderation, excessive consumption has been linked to potential health risks, including metabolic concerns.

Expert Opinions

Dietitian Christine Byrne emphasizes that while protein sodas can increase protein intake, they don’t offer significant nutritional benefits beyond that. She advises that individuals already consuming a balanced diet rich in protein may not need to add such beverages to their routine.

Conclusion

The “protein soda” trend exemplifies how social media can popularize unconventional dietary practices. While occasional indulgence in such beverages is unlikely to cause harm, relying on them as a primary protein source is not advisable. For optimal health, it’s best to obtain protein from whole food sources and maintain a balanced diet. As with any dietary trend, consulting with healthcare professionals or registered dietitians is recommended to ensure choices align with individual health needs.