Nutrition Nugget: Clear Protein Soda

[00:00:27] So a couple weeks ago, my friend Alyssa texted me and said, "What do you think about protein seltzer?" And if you're a longtime listener, you know that you probably know exactly what I said. I replied that they're probably unnecessary because I fully believe that we do not need protein in every single thing we consume.

[00:01:10] This is clear protein soda from Clean Simple Eats. So the company was founded by Erica and JJ. They say, and I'm just quoting them, it says, "Our goal is to create supplements that are undeniably clean, 100% delicious, and meant to be enjoyed every day." In their, you know, the story of the founders, we learn that Erica had postpartum depression after her third child and decided to do sort of a complete health reset that included moving away from everything processed, and then that became sort of her passion.

[00:02:11] Then it says, "20 grams of protein from 100% grass-fed whey, ultra-filtered protein, non-GMO, gluten-free, nothing artificial, low lactose, zero sugar, third-party tested, and highest ingredient standards." So they compare this clear protein soda to regular soda, which means certainly it has more protein, less sugar.

[00:03:02] Undeniably clean, 100% delicious, made to enjoy every day. Increase your protein intake, fuel your day, and feel your best." Looking at the nutrition facts, so serving size is one can. We have 90 calories, zero grams of fat, five milligrams of sodium, two grams of total carbs, of which there's zero grams of sugar, zero grams of added sugar, and 20 grams of protein The ingredients read: filtered water, grass-fed whey protein isolate, natural flavors, L-malic acid, citric acid from cassava, natural L+ tartaric acid, stevia leaf extract, Reb A in parentheses, Reb M as OnoSweet, the trademarked ingredient, then mushroom extract to preserve quality, and carbonation.

[00:04:19] The ultrafiltered protein is probably, I'm guessing here, but I think it's probably similar to the Oath clear protein drinks that we looked at, where they've marketed it like a juice, so that lighter consistency. And so it's sort of that more liquid consistency versus, like, a typical protein shake with some viscosity.

[00:05:07] And price-wise, so on their site, it's $36 for a 12-pack, which is, like, $3 each. If you get it on subscription, it comes down to about 45 cents per can, more or less. So I wonder what you're paying for soda where you live. I think where I live, that's pretty on par with, like, you know, buying a soda somewhere out.

[00:06:23] So I would rather do protein from typical protein sources throughout my day, and then if I really want flavor in my club soda, like I'll use frozen berries. You know, I like to chew my protein more. So I'm not a hell no. I'm also not a hell yes. And I guess the beauty is each of us really gets to decide for ourselves.

[00:07:09] This is also the easiest way to learn more about working with me as your coach. Dr. Aaron Hartman, thank you again for joining us this week.

[00:07:19] Jenn Trepeck: Thank you. And friends, if you are not already a member, join us in the Happy Healthy Hub. You'll go to asaladwithasideoffries.com/membership.

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