The Rise of Protein Diet Coke: A Trend Worth Trying?
If there’s one thing that social media users love, it’s finding innovative ways to enhance their favorite foods and drinks. The latest viral sensation making waves on TikTok is none other than "Protein Diet Coke." This unique concoction, popularized by creator Rebecca Gordon, has taken the platform by storm, racking up an impressive 2.4 million views in just five days. But what exactly is Protein Diet Coke, and does it live up to the nutritional hype? As a registered dietitian, I’m here to break down the details and help you decide if this trendy drink is worth a try.
What is Protein Diet Coke?
At its core, Protein Diet Coke is a simple blend of two ingredients: a ready-to-drink vanilla protein shake and Diet Coke. The drink has gained traction on TikTok, with many users opting for the Fairlife Vanilla Core Power, a high-protein milk drink that boasts ultra-filtered ingredients. The process involves pouring the protein shake into a glass of Diet Coke, stirring it up, and enjoying the fizzy, creamy combination.
Interestingly, this drink isn’t entirely new. It bears a striking resemblance to the classic egg cream, a nostalgic favorite among baby boomers, which combines seltzer, chocolate syrup, and milk. While egg creams are typically enjoyed for their taste rather than their nutritional value, Protein Diet Coke also echoes the "dirty soda" trend that gained popularity in Utah last year. Although the exact origins of Protein Diet Coke remain unclear, it seems to have roots in the same region.
Is Protein Diet Coke Healthy?
To determine the health implications of Protein Diet Coke, let’s dissect the nutritional profiles of its two main components.
Diet Coke
Diet Coke, like many sodas, is not typically associated with health benefits. However, it does contain aspartame, a non-nutritive sweetener that provides zero calories. The safety of aspartame has been a topic of debate for years, but both the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Cancer Society have deemed it safe for consumption. In moderation, Diet Coke can help reduce added sugar intake, but it does not contribute any nutritional value to your diet.
Fairlife Vanilla Core Power
On the other hand, Fairlife’s Vanilla Core Power is a different story. This drink is made with low-fat milk, monk fruit juice concentrate, stevia, and other ingredients. Fairlife uses ultra-filtering to concentrate the protein and calcium while filtering out most of the sugar. As a result, each serving contains a whopping 26 grams of protein and 50% of your daily calcium needs, all without added sugar. It’s marketed as a post-workout recovery drink, designed to combat fatigue and dehydration with high-quality protein and electrolytes. Research supports the idea that flavored milk can be an effective post-workout recovery option.
Should You Try It?
If you’re intrigued by the idea of Protein Diet Coke, there’s no harm in giving it a shot. However, there are several factors to consider before diving in.
Calories
One important aspect to note is that Protein Diet Coke contains significantly more calories than a standard Diet Coke. In fact, the Fairlife vanilla drink has a calorie count comparable to that of a regular Coke. If you’re watching your calorie intake, this is something to keep in mind.
Nutritional Value
While Protein Diet Coke does offer more nutritional benefits than a plain Diet Coke or regular Coke—thanks to its protein and vitamin D content—it’s worth noting that you could achieve similar benefits by simply consuming the Fairlife drink on its own. If you enjoy the taste of Diet Coke, it’s perfectly fine to indulge in it in moderation.
How Often to Drink It
For those who enjoy Protein Diet Coke, I recommend treating it as a post-workout recovery drink or a snack to stave off hunger between meals. Think of it as a protein drink with a splash of sugar-free soda for added flavor. However, remember that you could also enjoy the Fairlife drink by itself for a similar nutritional boost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Protein Diet Coke is an intriguing trend that combines the fizzy delight of Diet Coke with the protein-packed goodness of a vanilla milk drink. While it may not be a revolutionary health breakthrough, it does offer a unique flavor experience and some nutritional benefits. If you’re curious about trying it, go ahead! Just be mindful of the calories and consider how it fits into your overall dietary goals. Whether you love it or leave it, one thing is for sure: social media will continue to inspire creative culinary concoctions that keep us all on our toes.
