Our ReviewNaked NutritionNaked Shake
Naked Nutrition Naked Shake stands out with its commitment to simplicity and quality. Each serving, which consists of two scoops or 35 grams, packs 20 grams of protein with a calorie count of 140. What makes it particularly interesting is its refreshingly straightforward ingredient list - featuring pea protein, cocoa, coconut sugar, and a few other natural components. Designed for those who are mindful of what they put into their bodies, the Naked Shake appears to be a good fit for anyone looking to support their fitness or nutritional goals with a plant-based protein.
Ingredients
Let's begin with its primary component: pea protein. This plant-based protein is a standout choice for those seeking a dairy-free and vegan-friendly supplement. Pea protein is known for its impressive amino acid profile, which includes branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) crucial for muscle building and recovery. While not a complete protein in the strictest sense as it has lower amounts of some essential amino acids, it still provides a substantial and beneficial protein source, especially for those who might not consume animal products.
Moving on, the inclusion of alkalized cocoa not only imparts the chocolate flavor but also adds a touch of antioxidants. Cocoa is known for its health benefits, including improved heart health and potential mood-enhancing properties.
The use of coconut sugar as a sweetener is a thoughtful touch. It's a more natural sweetener compared to artificial alternatives, though it's still a source of added sugar, which some might prefer to limit. The natural plant-based flavors included in the mix enhance the taste without resorting to artificial means, aligning with the product's commitment to natural ingredients.
MCT Powder, a derivative of MCT oil, is another key ingredient. MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides) are fats that are quickly absorbed and converted into energy. This makes them a beneficial addition, especially for those on a ketogenic diet or anyone needing a quick energy source.
Potassium chloride and fermented cane sugar (Reb-M) are also present. Potassium chloride serves as an electrolyte, which is vital for hydration and muscle function. Reb-M, a sweetener derived from fermented cane sugar, is a newer addition to the market of natural sweeteners, known for its clean taste without the aftertaste some other sweeteners have.
The absence of artificial ingredients, colors, and preservatives is commendable, making this product a good choice for health-conscious individuals. However, some might prefer the inclusion of additional nutrients like enzymes, probiotics, or vitamins to enhance the product's health benefits further.
Effectiveness
When assessing the effectiveness of Naked Nutrition Naked Shake, particularly in its Chocolate flavor, we have to consider its nutritional profile and how well it aligns with its intended purpose. The product offers 20 grams of protein per 35-gram serving, which is substantial and aligns with the needs of those looking to supplement their protein intake, whether for muscle building, recovery, or general health. This makes it particularly effective for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone needing a protein boost in their diet.
The protein source in this product is pea protein, a popular plant-based option. While pea protein is rich in many essential amino acids, it's important to note that it doesn't provide them in the same balance as animal-based proteins. It's particularly high in branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are crucial for muscle building and recovery. This makes it a valuable option for vegetarians and vegans, who may need to combine it with other plant proteins to achieve a full amino acid profile. Pea protein is also known for being easier to digest compared to other protein sources like whey or casein, which is beneficial for those with sensitive stomachs or lactose intolerance.
Another aspect of this product's effectiveness is its macro-nutrient profile. Each serving contains 4 grams of fat, including MCTs (Medium Chain Triglycerides), which are rapidly absorbed and converted into energy, making them beneficial for people following a ketogenic diet or needing a quick energy source. The total carbohydrate content is 7 grams, with 3 grams of added sugars from coconut sugar. This moderately higher carb and sugar content is something to take into consideration for those on strict low-carb diets.
Moreover, the product's micronutrient content, including minerals like potassium and iron, contributes to its overall effectiveness. Potassium is crucial for muscle function and hydration, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the body, which can be particularly beneficial for athletes and active individuals.
However, the product does not include additional nutrients like digestive enzymes, probiotics, or a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals, which could further enhance its effectiveness, especially for overall health and well-being.
Taste
The cocoa powder used as the second ingredient provides a natural and authentic chocolate flavor. However, it's worth noting that when mixed with water it does seem to lead to a sweeter profile for the shake that might be too much for some. For those sensitive to sweetness, blending the shake with other ingredients might be preferable, and why we would probably pick the vanilla over the chocolate next time.
Unlike some protein powders that can be chalky, the Naked Shake maintains a smoother, creamier and more enjoyable texture, especially when blended.
In terms of mixability, the Naked Shake performs reasonably well. It mixes quite efficiently in a shaker bottle without clumping, although it can get a little foamy. When mixed in a blender though, it integrates really well, providing a substantial texture improvement.
Value
Naked Nutrition's Naked Shake positions itself as a premium product, which is evident in its pricing, ingredient quality, and branding. This cost reflects the product's focus on quality and natural ingredients, which can justify the higher price for consumers who prioritize these factors.
The ingredient list is a significant determinant of this product's value. It consists of high-quality, simple ingredients such as pea protein, alkalized cocoa, coconut sugar, MCT powder, and a few other natural components. The use of pea protein, sourced from North American farms, highlights a commitment to quality and sustainability. The choice of natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and monk fruit extract, instead of artificial sweeteners, aligns with the brand's ethos of providing a cleaner supplement option.
Comparing the Naked Shake to similar products, its emphasis on clean, minimal ingredients, and absence of artificial additives stand out. This focus on ingredient quality and transparency is a trend in the premium segment of the protein powder market. However, the product does not include additional nutrients like digestive enzymes, probiotics, or a wide range of vitamins and minerals, which some competitors offer.
Considering the market segment it targets, the quality of ingredients, and its comparison to other similar products, the Naked Nutrition Naked Shake offers decent value, particularly for consumers who prioritize natural ingredients and plant-based protein.
Conclusion
The Naked Nutrition Naked Shake in Chocolate flavor presents itself as a premium protein powder with a strong emphasis on quality, natural ingredients, and a plant-based protein source. Its use of pea protein, alkalized cocoa, coconut sugar, and MCT powder aligns with a health-conscious consumer base, particularly appealing to vegans and those with dietary restrictions related to dairy.
This product stands out for its commitment to simplicity and the absence of artificial additives. While it is priced higher than many competitors, this cost is reflective of its high-quality, sustainable ingredients and the brand's dedication to clean nutrition. The shake's effectiveness as a protein supplement, combined with its taste and texture, makes it a commendable choice for those prioritizing natural ingredients and plant-based nutrition.
The Naked Shake may be particularly suited for individuals looking for a vegan-friendly protein source, those sensitive to artificial additives, and consumers who prefer the natural sweetness of coconut sugar and monk fruit extract. While it might not be the first choice for those on a strict budget or those seeking additional nutrients like enzymes or probiotics in their protein powder, its overall quality and focus on natural ingredients make it a recommendable option under the right circumstances.
Where to buy?
The protein matrix includes the primary protein components included in this product. These protein sources are listed in order of volume from greatest to least in the product.
This diagram provides the digestion profile for the protein types contained within this product. The chart plots the digestion of the included protein types over an hourly timeframe. All profiles have their advantages depending on your goals. More information regarding digestion and timing can be found in our guides.
The cost indicators provide a relative cost comparison with all protein products. The lower the score the better!
The "Product Cost Indicator" provides the comparative product cost, as a whole.
The "Protein Cost Indicator" provides a comparative cost based on only the protein component. While this can be useful for comparing products excluding fillers, many additional ingredients can provide additional benefits and value.
Note: Products that serve a dual purpose, such as mass gainers and ketogenic powders don't include the "Protein Cost Indicator".
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