Key Takeaways
- Sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss, often begins in your 40s and can gradually reduce strength, mobility, and day-to-day independence.*
- Many adults over 40 benefit from more protein than the standard recommendation to help maintain or build muscle as they age.* Intakes around 0.55–0.70 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day have been linked with better muscle mass and strength in older adults with sarcopenia*.
- For older adults without sarcopenia, daily protein intakes near 0.45–0.55 grams per pound of body weight can better support lean mass and strength than the usual lower targets*.
- Combining higher protein intake with regular moderate to vigorous physical activity can further support muscle retention and function in older adults*.
- Bucked Up Protein Soda offers 25 grams of clear whey protein isolate per can in a light, carbonated drink, making it easier to reach your daily protein goals without heavy shakes or large meals. Shop Bucked Up Protein Soda here.
You can make daily protein intake simpler and more enjoyable by adding convenient options like Bucked Up Protein Soda to your routine. Shop now to see how it can fit into your day.

How Protein Supports Muscle As You Age
Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength that often starts between ages 40 and 50. This process can make everyday tasks like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or standing up from a chair more difficult over time.*
Protein provides the amino acids your body needs for muscle protein synthesis, which can help support muscle maintenance and repair as you age.* Standard recommendations around 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day are often too low for older adults, who may need higher intakes to offset age-related anabolic resistance*.
Step 1: Assess Your Protein Needs to Combat Sarcopenia
Knowing your target makes it easier to plan meals and snacks that support muscle health. Many adults over 40 fall short on protein, especially at breakfast and between meals.*
For adults in midlife and older, daily intakes around 0.45–0.55 grams of protein per pound of body weight can better support muscle maintenance than lower intakes*. For those already experiencing sarcopenia or at higher risk, intakes up to about 0.73 grams per pound may further support strength and function*.
To estimate your range, multiply your body weight by 0.45 and 0.73. A 150 lb person, for example, would aim for roughly 68–110 grams of protein per day. Tracking your intake for a few days can highlight gaps where easier options like Bucked Up Protein Soda can help you close the distance to your target.
Step 2: Choose Protein Options That Are Easy To Drink And Digest
Choosing formats that match your appetite, schedule, and digestion makes it much more likely that you will meet your protein goals consistently.*
Comparing Protein Sources for Easy Consumption
Common options each have pros and cons:
- Whole-food protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, tofu, beans) offers broad nutrition but often requires cooking and chewing, which can feel challenging with low appetite.
- Traditional protein shakes supply concentrated protein but can feel thick, milky, or heavy, especially later in the day.
- Protein bars are portable but often include extra sugar, fats, and calories that may not suit every goal.
- Clear protein drinks like Bucked Up Protein Soda provide a lighter, beverage-style option that can feel more like a flavored drink than a supplement.
The Bucked Up Protein Soda Advantage for Sarcopenia
Bucked Up Protein Soda provides 25 grams of fast-digesting clear whey protein isolate per can, along with a light, carbonated texture that resembles a flavored soda rather than a shake. This format can be easier to drink for people with reduced appetite, busy schedules, or sensitivity to creamy textures.*
Bucked Up uses 100 percent whey protein isolate instead of whey concentrate or collagen blends. Isolate offers high purity and is typically lower in lactose, which can make it a better option for many people with mild lactose sensitivity. Each can has about 100 calories, with zero sugar and zero carbs, which can support weight management goals while still helping you hit your protein target.*
Bucked Up Protein Soda is caffeine-free, so you can drink it any time of day, including evenings. This can be especially helpful for GLP-1 users who often face reduced appetite and an increased risk of muscle loss during weight change.* Shop Bucked Up Protein Soda here to explore flavors and nutrition facts.

Step 3: Build A Consistent Protein Routine
Consistency across the whole day matters more than a single high-protein meal. Identify the times when you typically miss your target, then plug in easier options to cover those gaps.*
Helpful times to add a can of Bucked Up Protein Soda include:
- After strength or resistance training, to supply quickly digested protein when muscles are especially responsive.*
- Between meals, to raise total daily protein without adding a large, heavy meal.
- As a swap for sugary or low-protein drinks, to support muscle health while still feeling refreshed.*
- In the evening, if you prefer a light option that does not contain caffeine.
Older adults who consistently met protein intakes near 0.45–0.68 grams per pound of body weight tended to have higher muscle mass*, which highlights the value of hitting your target most days rather than aiming for perfection.
Step 4: Troubleshoot Common Protein Intake Challenges
Staying comfortable while you increase protein makes the habit sustainable. Hydration supports digestion, so pairing protein-rich foods and drinks with water can help you feel better overall.* For taste and texture, most people enjoy Bucked Up Protein Soda best when it is well chilled or poured over ice.
Overcoming Common Hurdles
- Heavy shakes or large meals: Smaller, lighter options like clear protein drinks can feel easier on days when a full meal is not appealing.
- Skipping protein after activity: A quick, drinkable source of protein can make it more likely that you refuel after walks, resistance sessions, or active days.*
- Low activity levels: Combining adequate protein intake with regular moderate to vigorous movement can support strength and function more than either strategy alone*.
The light carbonation and clear texture of Bucked Up Protein Soda reduce the heaviness and chalkiness that sometimes come with other protein products, which can help you stay consistent without taste fatigue.
Measuring Your Success: Signs Your Protein Plan Is Working
Tracking a few simple signals can help you see whether your approach is moving in the right direction.*
- Reaching your protein target feels easier and more automatic.
- Energy for daily tasks improves, with less mid-afternoon fatigue.
- Post-activity soreness becomes more manageable over time.*
- Climbing stairs, standing from a chair, or carrying bags feels steadier or more controlled.*
- Body weight changes focus more on fat loss than muscle loss when you are in a calorie deficit.*
Keeping a brief weekly log of strength, energy, and how often you hit your protein goal can help you notice gradual progress and adjust as needed.
Advanced Strategies For Long-Term Muscle Health
Fine-Tuning Your Protein Plan
Structuring protein across the day can further support muscle maintenance.* For example, you might:
- Use Bucked Up Protein Soda around workouts or during busy hours for fast, easy protein.
- Choose slower-digesting proteins like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or casein-based products closer to bedtime for a more gradual release of amino acids.*
Pairing higher protein intake with regular strength training can further support muscle gain and help counteract sarcopenia*. The best plan is one that fits your preferences, schedule, and health guidance from your clinician.
Frequently Asked Questions About Protein and Sarcopenia
Is carbonation bad for protein absorption or digestion?
Carbonation in Bucked Up Protein Soda does not appear to reduce protein absorption. The clear whey isolate is designed for easy digestion, and many people find the lighter texture more comfortable than thick shakes, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or lower appetite.*
Can I drink Bucked Up Protein Soda every day to help manage sarcopenia?
Daily use can be appropriate for many adults as part of an overall diet that meets protein needs and aligns with medical guidance.* Its zero sugar, zero carb, and caffeine-free profile makes it suitable for frequent use for most individuals who tolerate dairy-based proteins.
How does Bucked Up Protein Soda compare to a traditional protein shake for sarcopenia?
Bucked Up Protein Soda offers 25 grams of whey protein isolate per can, which is comparable to many shakes in protein amount.* The main difference is the clear, carbonated format, which can feel lighter and more drinkable for people who dislike creamy or chalky textures.
Is Bucked Up Protein Soda useful for GLP-1 users who want to protect muscle?
Many GLP-1 users experience reduced appetite and may struggle to eat enough protein, which can increase the risk of muscle loss during weight change.* A light, flavored drink that provides 25 grams of protein can make it easier to meet daily targets without large meals.
What makes Bucked Up different from other protein drinks on the market?
Bucked Up Protein Soda uses only whey protein isolate instead of whey concentrate or collagen blends. Collagen can support joints, hair, and nails, but it does not provide the full amino acid profile that muscle tissue needs in the same way that complete proteins like whey isolate do.*

Conclusion: Make Protein Intake Simple While Supporting Muscle Health
Higher protein intake and regular movement can both play important roles in slowing age-related muscle loss and supporting day-to-day function.* Yet heavy shakes, large meals, and time-consuming prep can make it difficult to stay consistent.
Bucked Up Protein Soda offers 25 grams of clear whey protein isolate in a light, carbonated drink that tastes closer to a flavored beverage than a traditional shake. This format can make it easier to reach your daily protein goal while managing appetite, digestion, and calorie intake.*
You can support your strength and independence by choosing protein options that match your lifestyle and are easy to maintain. Bucked Up Protein Soda fits naturally into post-workout routines, busy afternoons, or any time you want a convenient, protein-rich refreshment. Shop now to see how it can help simplify your protein plan.
*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.