Nutritionist reveals the truth about the 3pm Diet Coke fix

The UK is a nation of fizzy drink lovers, ranking as the seventh highest consumer in the world, but while many love to perk up their afternoon with a sweet treat, nutritionists warn that it may not be a healthy way to serve energy.

Of those popular fizzy beverages, Diet Coke has recently become of the most popular ways for Gen Z to get their fix with TikTok videos surrounding the drink gaining millions of views on the video platform.

However, according to nutritionist Kyle Crowley from Protein Works, the sugar-free drink may actually be counter-intuitive to providing an afternoon energy boost. 

Diet Coke For Life has nearly a million views on the app with millions posting daily videos on the popular caffeinated beverage – many dubbing the afternoon favourite a ‘DC’.

One creator has gathered millions of views for the perfect ‘midday Diet Coke’ recipe where she reveals a lengthily process of creating the perfect afternoon pour.

Of those popular fizzy beverages, Diet Coke has recently become of the most popular ways for Gen Z to get their fizzy fix with videos relating to the drink obtaining millions of views on life

Pictured: One creator has gathered millions of views for the perfect ‘midday Diet Coke’ recipe where she reveals a lengthily process of creating the perfect afternoon pour

The recipe involves combining frozen sphere cubes of Diet Coke with a can of the beverage, a frozen lime, and frosted glass.

Meanwhile, it’s not just Gen Z who readily tuck into an afternoon DC – the beverage is also favoured by American business owners Elon Musk and Warren Buffett. 

Research from Protein Works revealed that the 3pm slump is a real phenomenon, with most people experiencing a noticeable dip in energy and alertness right at this exact time. 

The study found that coffee drinkers hit their slump first, followed by those with high-sugar breakfasts, no breakfast, and, lastly, those consuming high-protein diets, who experience their slump later. 

While Diet Coke doesn’t fall into any these same categories, sadly for DC lovers, the popular beverage still results in a crash.

According to nutrition expert Kyle Crowley, the caffeine content of the soda is brief with the energy boosting effects only being short-lived.

‘Caffeine can momentarily increase your energy and concentration, but this boost is usually brief. 

‘After the initial effect wears off, you might find yourself feeling even more drained than before. 

‘This short term boost of energy was particularly evident in our latest research which found that participants which drank coffee for breakfast were the quickest to hit their midday slump.’

According to Kyle, though the energy boost is only short lived, the caffeine swirling around the body can make you pay the consequences when the night arrives.

‘Consuming caffeine later in the day can interfere with your sleep patterns. If you’re having a Diet Coke at 3pm, it may still affect your ability to fall asleep at night, leading to poorer rest and more pronounced fatigue the following day,’ he explained.

Not to mention, the glorified fizzy beverage offers nothing in regards to nutrients, making it an unfulfilling option. 

‘Diet Coke provides no essential nutrients. Unlike snacks that offer protein or fibre, Diet Coke doesn’t contribute to long-lasting energy. 

‘It fills a craving without offering any substantial nutritional benefits, which can leave you feeling unsatisfied and more prone to energy crashes,’ Kyle said.

Recent design launched by the brand that features named cans. Sadly for DC lovers, the popular beverage still results in a crash in energy 

Instead of reaching for a fizzy drink, Kyle instead recommends beating the energy dip by filling up on a snack instead, suggesting a protein rich mini meal might be the solution

Instead of reaching for a fizzy drink, Kyle instead recommends beating the energy dip by filling up on a snack instead, suggesting a protein rich mini meal might be the solution.

He said: ‘Protein helps to stabilise blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full, which can prevent the energy dips that lead to cravings for quick fixes like Diet Coke.’

Alternatively, opting for a more sustainable energy boosting drink could improve effects over the final few hours of the day.

Kyle suggests matcha, which is ‘rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamins C, potassium, and magnesium, supporting overall well-being and steady energy. It also aids in metabolism, making it a healthier, more balanced alternative for combating the 3pm slump.’ 

For snackers, Kyle suggested hard boiled eggs, nuts and seeds, hummus with vegetables, a protein smoothie, or Greek yoghurt, to stabilise energy for the rest of the afternoon.