TikTok’s viral protein Diet Coke trend explained: Why doctors warn against mixing protein into your cola

TIKTOK has birthed a new trend called "dirty soda," but it has divided opinion.

The viral protein shake includes the unlikely addition of Diet Coke, mixed together to create a creamy new trend - but doctors advice against it.

What is a "dirty soda"?

The viral TikTok trending drink nicknamed "dirty soda," involves mixing a pre-made protein shake with Diet Coke.

The mix results in a creamy, carbonated shake that aims to make protein intake more enjoyable.

However, a doctor has warned that the combination could be potentially harmful.

The TikTok craze circulated after a Utah based influencer posted a video of herself making a dirty soda in a local gas station.

The video by Rebecca Gordon garnered over 180K likes (as of November 2024).

Rebecca scored the viral drink highly in her review.

Her review caption read: "Protein diet coke gets a 10/10 for me."

The review divided opinion, with TikTokers flocking to leave their thoughts in the comment section.

One wrote: "My digestive system would never recover."

While another approved saying: "So wrong but I know I’d love it and also have it for breakfast everyday."

What the experts say

Dr Zac Turner, who is also a biomedical scientist warned against combining the two ingredients.

He told News.com.au: “Let’s get real – if your ‘protein’ comes from a pre-made shake, you’re likely getting more calories from sugar than from protein itself,”

“The average ready-to-go protein drink can sneak in a lot of filler, meaning that creamy shot into your Diet Coke may end up countering your sugar-free intentions.”

Dr Turner suggests a clean, high-quality whey protein product with minimal sugar for those interested in trying the drink.

“It’s not likely to taste as fun or blend as easily but whey isolate packs a pure protein punch, so you’d actually get the benefits you’re after without accidentally turning your ‘diet’ drink into a dessert.”