Diet Coke with a protein shake? New Viral Drink Isn’t What Experts Recommend
Protein Diet Coke is a mixture of Diet Coke and a flavored protein shake (mostly vanilla) that was introduced by Rebecca Gordon, a teacher in Utah.
in short
- ‘Protein Diet Coke’ is trending on social media
- It’s a mixed diet coke and a flavored protein shake
- Experts are not liking this trend
A few months ago, when Dua Lipa shared her own version of Diet Coke, it caused quite a stir on the Internet. The recipe had simple ingredients, Diet Coke, pickle juice, pickles, jalapeño juice and jalapeños, but were they ever mixed together? We do not think so.
When this recipe went viral on social media, everyone wanted to try this version of Coke, uh sorry, Diet Coke. From fans to curious food lovers to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, who didn’t like it at all, everyone wanted to taste it.
But Dua is not alone. Today, Diet Coke is somewhat of a staple meal (yes, dinner for the girls) for many of us, and quirky recipes where people want to personalize their Diet Coke are nothing new. Who else remembers the Coke and Mentos experiments?
Now, it looks like there’s a new addition to your Diet Coke — or, according to the Internet, a way to make your protein shake taste a little more interesting.
Where is the dirt?
Protein Diet Coke is a mixture of Diet Coke and a flavored protein shake (mostly vanilla) that was introduced on TikTok by Rebecca Gordon, a teacher from Utah, USA. His viral video showcasing the fizzy creation gained widespread popularity, and now the trend has even reached India via Instagram.
The protein Diet Coke is rooted in the trend of “dirty soda”, a soda that is enhanced with syrup, creamer, or other ingredients for additional flavor. With this trend popularized by shows like The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Dirty Soda has become a cultural phenomenon, and this new twist is no exception.
But should you add Diet Coke to your protein shake or vice versa? We asked the experts.
What do the experts say?
When it comes to the trending combination of protein shakes and Diet Coke, experts have shared their thoughts, and the consensus isn’t overly optimistic. Parmeet Kaur, HOD-dietitian and nutritionist at Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, explains that although this mixture may sound interesting, it often causes digestive discomfort.
The carbonation present in Diet Coke combines with the protein powder to produce gas and may result in bloating. Additionally, artificial sweeteners such as aspartame present in Diet Coke are known to cause sensitivities, including headaches or digestive disturbances, in some individuals.
Dr. Bhavana Garg, senior consultant, dietician and nutritionist, Yashoda Super Specialty Hospital Kaushambi, agrees. She further adds that this combination does not increase the nutritional value of the protein shake.
She notes that the frothy mix may sound tempting, but the caffeine and carbonation in Diet Coke can hinder digestion and potentially cause bloating or discomfort. Both experts stress the importance of prioritizing balanced nutrition over trendy concoctions that may not serve any significant health purpose.
Can you include it in your diet?
Although mixing a protein shake with Diet Coke may not be entirely harmful, it is not an option that most nutritionists would recommend. According to Dr. Garg, adding this combination to your diet largely depends on individual tolerance, but it does not provide any significant health benefits. Parmeet Kaur emphasizes that protein shakes are best mixed with water, milk or plant-based alternatives to aid proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.
If you are aiming to meet your daily protein requirements, it is better to consume protein shakes alone rather than experimenting with carbonated beverages. But then again, if you don’t like the taste of protein shakes alone, you may not want to try this trend unless it upsets your stomach.
For a balanced and healthy diet, focus on nutrient-rich foods and beverages that provide energy and essential nutrients without compromising digestive health.
What’s the deal with Diet Coke?
There has been a rise in people’s obsession with Diet Coke, a low-calorie and sugar-free beverage that may seem like a healthier alternative to sugary beverages. Parmeet Kaur points out that its primary and controversial sweetener, aspartame, is not inherently toxic, but can cause digestive upset or headaches in some individuals. While Diet Coke may reduce calorie intake, its artificial sweeteners may cause cravings for sweet foods, potentially impacting gut health.
Dr. Garg says moderate consumption of Diet Coke is important.
Excessive consumption of artificially sweetened beverages has been linked to metabolic changes, digestive discomfort and increased cravings for sweets. For a truly healthy lifestyle, she recommends choosing water, herbal teas or natural beverages. In small amounts, Diet Coke may not pose significant health risks, but it is important to ensure that it does not replace nutrient-rich and hydrating options in your diet.
last sip
While the combination of protein shake and Diet Coke may arouse curiosity among those who follow trends, it lacks the nutritional benefits that a health-conscious person should prioritize. Experts recommend sticking to tried-and-tested options like water, milk, or plant-based options for your protein shakes to ensure proper digestion and nutrient absorption.