They promise protein but deliver sugary surprises.
Fairlife’s Core Power Protein Shake—popular among fitness enthusiasts and those using Ozempic—has just been deemed the unhealthiest bottled drink in the U.S., despite its image as a muscle-building option.
This revelation caught the attention of Elise Lamar, a 42-year-old public relations professional from Florida, who previously addressed the issue.
Lamar mentioned that he incorporates Core Power into his coffee while taking Munjaro, a weight loss medication. This combination helps users maintain their protein intake to avoid potential muscle loss.
Nutritionists, however, are raising alarms.
Registered dietitian Mary Sabat placed this shake at the top of the unhealthy list, calling it surprising that such a reputation still exists.
“Core Power Protein Shakes might be seen as a convenient post-workout drink, but a closer look reveals significant health issues,” she stated.
The shake, produced by Fairlife (a Coca-Cola brand), contains up to 42 grams of protein per bottle, but that comes with a controversial background, according to Sabat.
“The protein often comes from cows fed GMO corn or soybeans, and the dairy used is non-organic, which can carry hormone and antibiotic residues,” she explained, highlighting that better alternatives involve cows graze on healthier grass.
Furthermore, she pointed out that carrageenan, a thickener linked to digestive issues, undermines the drink’s health claims.
Sabat also criticized the use of artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which, according to research on animals, could harm gut health and raise cancer risks.
“Additionally,” she noted, “the label lists ‘natural flavors,’ a vague term that may cover numerous chemical additives, many of which aren’t really natural.”
Despite the concerns, the protein shake trend is booming. As noted by Retail Tracker Spin, drink sales surged by 11.1%, equating to $4.7 billion in the past year. Much of this demand is driven by Ozempic users.
A previous report from Rila Global Consulting revealed that 13% of GLP-1 drug users, including those taking Ozempic and Mounjaro, have consumed protein shakes in the last two years.
Yet, experts warn against excessive protein intake, especially from heavily processed sources.
Dr. Joseph Antoun, CEO of Longevity Company L-Nutra, previously stated that consuming too many animal proteins could elevate IGF-1 levels, a hormone linked to rapid aging, cancer, and diabetes.
“The aim should be more than just muscle gain; it’s about living a long, healthy life,” he emphasized.
For now, opting for whole foods like eggs might be wiser than relying on mysterious “natural flavors.”
