Blog #5 - Kayla Snell

I was really happy to see that feasting our eyes on the supplements at the GNC was a possibility for this prompt, because that is something I do on a regular basis anyway. Particularly for the protein powder. I've been trying to navigate the fitness industry and their "quick fixes" as well as the supplements for about half a year so this isn't entirely foreign. A common theme in the marketing of these powders is that they are most commonly associated with dark colors, powerful figures, and promises to make the consumer lean quicker than ever before. Ninety-nine percent of the time, these products are geared towards men while the weight loss supplements are pushed towards women.

That brings us to one particular protein powder I am happy to rant about. It is branded as "Ladyboss Lean" and it is marketed in a way that hits women right in the insecurities and treats is like the magic cure to all our weight loss problems. Supplements all geared towards men? No worries, this one is just for the ladies! Craving something sweet? Never fear, avoid the tub of cookie dough with a protein shake instead! Cant find time to prepare a meal? Here's a quick and easy meal replacement that'll keep you feeling full for hours! The product is highly pushed by a bubbly, jacked as heck blonde girl who regularly posts videos of her preparing her "workout stack" on instagram, aka protein shakes and other supplements, often times wearing hot pink to match her shaker bottle and supplement packaging. Another huge component is that all the ingredients are "backed by science" and include patented ingredients such as fibersol and digeseb. (Link for this information below)

I don't doubt that it took lots of time and development to put together, and this coupled with the marketing tactics is why it bears so much similarity to the drug industry. However, its more of a marketing gimmick than anything. That was why I really appreciated the guy who said that protein powder is nothing more than "filtered milk" and "a f***ing cheap and convenient way for athletes to hit their protein requirements, but it's not magic." This means that 1) protein isn't any more "formulated for men" or "formulated for women" than a steak or a doughnut, and 2) I got taken for a sucker with this product. Thank goodness this guy exists. I ended up switching to a different product, that had essentially the exact same ingredients, but was priced $1/serving cheaper that the Lean product. Funny how this sort of thing works.With all the supplements for diet and bodybuilding, this is only one of many facets.

https://ladybosslabs.com/lean09ja5409j095ja0935