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Naked Nutrition Reviews: Do These Simple Supplements Really Work?
Nutrition with nothing to hide, or another marketing ploy?
How do we vet brands and products? Learn more.
When it comes to fitness supplements, the market is already beyond saturated with companies claiming to offer the key to muscle growth and weight loss.
While some of these products are great, drawing from my expertise in health and nutrition, it’s clear to me that others are simply marketing gimmicks, packed full of added sugars, flavorings, and chemicals that could hinder your progress.
I’m therefore always on the hunt for supplements with pure, high-quality ingredients that actually perform as advertised. So, when I came across Naked Nutrition, a brand that uses only clean and simple ingredients, I was intrigued to learn more.
From the range, I was particularly excited to check out the brand new Mocha Latte Protein Iced Coffee, a whey protein drink that is said to help power users through their morning workout, or get more done at the office. Join me as I test this beverage and review the brand’s full range, to see whether these products match up with their promising marketing claims.
What is Naked Nutrition? An Overview
- Supports muscle growth and repair
- Eases post-workout soreness
- Boosts strength and powder during workouts
- Increases energy
- Improves gym performance
Naked Nutrition is a nutritional supplement company that sells only high-quality, natural protein powders and dietary supplements. Sporting the slogan, “Nutrition with Nothing to Hide,” the brand aims to help consumers meet their health and fitness goals with only pure, simple ingredients and no harmful additives.
Back in 2014, the company was founded by Stephen Zieminski, a former cross country and track All-American. He became fed up with marketing gimmicks that promised to help consumers lead a healthier lifestyle, but instead provided supplements with little nutritional value.
Starting with just 5 single ingredient supplements, Ziemniski started Naked Nutrition to help tackle this problem. The brand now offers a huge range of no-fuss products, from their classic Grass-Fed Whey Protein to BCAAs and pre-workout supplements.
Range of Products Offered by Naked Nutrition
While researching what Naked Nutrition has to offer, I was particularly pleased to see that most products contain 3 ingredients or less, all of which are simple, natural, and easy for consumers to understand.
Zeroing in on the details, I decided to explore the full range, which has expanded significantly since 2014 to include over 50 products.
#1 Protein powders
Naked Nutrition’s original Naked Whey Protein Powder comes from high-quality, free-roaming cows that are grass-fed and raised without growth hormones.
I was pleased to see that each serving contains 25 grams of whey protein concentrate and 5.9 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which can improve muscle growth and reduce post-workout soreness.
They also offer Micellar Casein Powder, a slow-digesting protein that is designed to keep you fuller for longer, and supports muscle recovery throughout the night. For those on a plant-based diet, the Pea Protein Powder gets a thumbs up from me, as this type of protein is easily absorbed by the body.
#2 Pre-workout supplements
Next up in the range is Naked Energy, a pure pre-workout supplement designed to boost power, strength, and energy. Undoubtedly, this is a favorable pick for those wanting to improve their performance in the gym.
I was pleased to see that the supplements, which come in original, citrus, and fruit punch flavors, are formulated with clean, non-GMO ingredients, and without additives or artificial sweeteners. Plus, there’s a stimulant-free version, which provides a clean energy boost for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
#3 Protein cookies
As a healthcare professional, I often speak to patients who are struggling to shift stubborn fat, primarily due to intense sweet cravings that they just can’t control. It’s therefore a win in my eyes to see products like the Naked Cookie, which provide a quick, nutritious treat and can help with building healthier eating habits.
The gluten-free cookies come in chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or sugar cookie flavors, and contain only 1 gram of sugar, 190 calories, yet 10 grams of whey protein. This can help to keep you fuller for longer and is ideal for supporting a weight loss journey.
#4 Health and wellness boosters
Along with supporting workout performance, the brand has also developed a “Daily Essentials” range that promotes all-round health and wellness.
This features a Green Superfood Powder, which claims to help users reduce stress, while also improving gut and immune health function. Some of the other main wellness boosters in the range include:
- Naked Collagen: Promotes fast workout recovery, as well as healthy skin and hair
- Naked Gut: Improves nutrient absorption, minimizes digestive discomfort, and supports a healthy gut microbiome
- Naked Sleep: Supports deep sleep for optimal recovery, immune function, and hormonal balance
- Organic Naked Fiber: Provides a convenient way to meet the recommended daily fiber intake
- Immunity Support Supplement: Uses vitamins, minerals, and superfoods to reinforce the body’s natural defenses when under stress
- Naked Keto: Supports muscle growth, reduces body fat, and preserves lean muscle while on a ketogenic or low-carb diet
- Multivitamins: Women’s multivitamin provides hormonal and immune support, while the men’s version promotes optimal prostate health
Deep Dive into Mocha Protein Coffee
As someone who’s delved deep into the intricacies of nutrition, from first glance of the Mocha Protein Coffee I was impressed to find that the drink is packed with 20 grams of protein. This is a nutrient that keeps you full and is therefore great as part of a weight loss diet, while also being essential for tissue growth and repair.
Something else that caught my eye about the Naked Nutrition coffee is the fact that it contains 95 milligrams of caffeine. Although I have some reservations about recommending caffeine for all of my patients, it does mean that the drink works well as a pre-workout beverage, a morning energizer, or as a focus booster to get you through the working day.
To make the coffee, you’re simply required to mix 2 rounded scoops into 10 to 12 ounces of water, or use milk for an added boost of protein and calcium. You can then either blend or mix the solution in a shaker bottle for 20 to 30 seconds.
I can easily vouch for the merits of the latter approach, as when I tried it out, the whey protein powder and liquid mixed well into a smooth beverage, leaving no unappetizing clumps or foam behind. I also enjoyed the chocolate flavor, which was rich and sweet, yet perfectly balanced by a slight bitterness from the coffee.
Benefits of Naked Nutrition Mocha Protein Coffee
Drawing from my expertise in nutrition, I noted several benefits while testing the Protein Coffee. I’ve summarized my main findings below:
#1 High-quality protein source
Straightaway, I was pleased to see that the coffee has 20 grams of grass-fed whey protein. Made from milk, this is considered a high-quality, complete protein source as it contains all 9 essential amino acids.
In simple terms, getting plenty of protein into your diet is important for maintaining and building lean muscle. Evidently, this drink is therefore a top contender for gym bunnies looking to improve their strength, or simply for those wanting to achieve their recommended protein intake.
If you’re unsure of what your daily protein target should be, I’d suggest using a nutrition app. This can help you calculate your ideal calorie intake, keep track of what you’re eating, and provide meal inspiration.
#2 Convenient energy and nutrition boost
This protein drink also contains 95 mg of caffeine from Colombian coffee, making it a sweet and delicious alternative to consuming one standard cup of coffee. This gets a green light from a research standpoint, as caffeine blocks the effects of the adenosine neurotransmitter that can lead to tiredness.
Further research suggests that caffeine also activates dopamine receptors, a chemical that can help you feel more alert, focused, and ready to take on the day.
#3 Great taste
As mentioned, I found the Mocha Protein Coffee to be worth the hype in terms of flavor. Despite containing no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors, many customers enjoy the drink’s rich, sweet mocha taste.
It achieves this using only natural ingredients, including cocoa, sea salt, and organic coconut sugar. I was particularly pleased to see the inclusion of coconut sugar, as although, like regular sugar, it is high in calories, it is somewhat more nutritious.
This is because it retains many of the nutrients found in coconut palm, including iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants.
Downsides of the Naked Nutrition Mocha Protein Coffee
While the Mocha Protein Coffee has some merits, including its taste and convenience, there are some red flags too. Here are my thoughts:
#1 Not suitable for vegans
If you’re on a plant-based diet, this protein coffee isn’t the one for you. Its main protein source is grass-fed whey from small dairy farms, which, to put it simply, is the liquid byproduct of cheese production.
I’d therefore urge those on a vegan diet to instead enjoy a beverage containing plant protein, such as soy, pea, hemp, or brown rice-based products. Soylent ready-to-drink high protein and energy shakes are both great options, as they are designed to provide maximum plant-based nutrition with minimal effort.
#2 Caffeine-sensitive people should avoid it
I also have reservations about the caffeine content of this Protein Coffee. For those with a sensitivity to the stimulant, consuming 95 milligrams of caffeine can cause a whole host of unpleasant side effects.
Some examples include digestive issues like bloating, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, anxiety, and rapid heart rate. Upon researching this ingredient, it’s also clear that excessive caffeine consumption can raise blood pressure, which may increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.
#3 Higher price point
One thing I noticed about Naked Nutrition’s Mocha Protein Coffee is that it’s pretty expensive. Setting you back $29.99 per tub, this could make it inaccessible to many of my patients who are on a budget.
If you’re planning on using this drink as an energy-boosting beverage, it may be better value sticking to your regular morning coffee.
Is Naked Nutrition Mocha Protein Coffee Worth It?
To put it simply, whether the Mocha Protein Coffee is worth its relatively expensive price tag depends on what you’re looking for. Overall, it offers a great taste, and the clean, simple nutrition profile is a win in my eyes.
The product works well for those who require a boost of energy on the go, but want more than what their usual morning coffee can offer. Its protein content also makes the drink ideal for supporting muscle growth and recovery, especially if you’re trying to improve your performance in the gym or lose weight.
However, based on my analysis, there are better alternatives if you’re looking for more of a meal replacement shake that provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals. One great example is Ka’Chava, a shake containing a plant-based blend of over 85 superfoods.
Naked Nutrition Mocha Protein Coffee Cost
One 1.4 lb tub of Mocha Protein Coffee, which delivers 17 servings, costs $29.99, equating to around $1.77 per serving.
Naked Nutrition also offers a subscribe and save deal, which reduces the price by 20% on your first shipment, and 10% on all following purchases. At my time of writing, a 1, 2, or 3 month subscription for first-time customers therefore costs $23.99.
Customers spending over $99 can also benefit from free shipping.
Comparison Table
Eases the transition into ketosis
Contains no gluten or added sugars
Dissolves easily
Can burn fat quickly
May help sustained and consistent weight loss
Pleasant vanilla and chocolate flavors
Pairs with an affordable app
High-quality protein source
Made with only natural ingredients
Convenient energy boost
Great taste
Mixes easily
Contains no artificial additives
Gluten, GMO, and soy-free
Delivers 21 grams of protein
Provides a clean energy boost
Plant-based
Gluten-free
Suitable for those with a soy or lactose intolerance
Made with non-GMO ingredients
Contains no added sugars
Not many flavors
Unsuitable for those on vegan diet
High price point
Not vegan-friendly
Unsuitable for those with a caffeine sensitivity
Relatively expensive
Quite an expensive product
Unsuitable for those who are sensitive to caffeine
Some users report a chalky consistency
A Word From Our MD
If you are on a fitness journey, taking supplements can be a convenient way of getting in all of the essential nutrients, improving energy levels, and maximizing your performance.
Protein supplements are particularly important, as this macronutrient supports muscle growth and recovery by repairing small tissue tears sustained during exercise. Look for powders, shakes, and bars containing high-quality whey or plant-based proteins, with as few added sugars as possible.
Despite this, supplements shouldn’t be solely relied on for achieving your health and fitness goals, as you will miss out on several important vitamins and minerals. Instead, try to include a variety of healthy foods into your diet, such as whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, green vegetables, and low-calorie fruits.
FAQs
You can purchase all Naked Nutrition products on their official website.
Yes, Naked Nutrition is a legitimate health and wellness supplement company that prioritizes transparency with their natural, pure, and simple products.
No, the Mocha Protein Coffee is unsuitable for those on a vegan diet. This is because it contains whey protein, which is sourced from grass-fed cows as part of the cheese-making process.
Shakes made from Naked Nutrition protein powder can be a convenient replacement for meals, particularly for those trying to lose weight. However, you may not feel as satisfied as when you eat solid food. You should also ensure that you are consuming the right calorie, macro, and micronutrient balance throughout the rest of the day to maintain your energy levels.
Conclusion
Overall, I’m a fan of Naked Nutrition’s transparent philosophy, and feel that their products really do match up to this. As a high-protein, energy-boosting drink, I can also easily vouch for the merits of their new Mocha Protein Coffee. It manages to deliver a delicious taste and smooth texture using protein and caffeine from good-quality sources, making it a winner in my book.
Although I’d recommend the product to anyone looking for a convenient way to meet their protein goal or improve their gym performance, I have some reservations about the high price point. I’d also advise against using it if you have a sensitivity to stimulants like caffeine.
If you’re still not quite sure whether this product, or any others from the Naked Nutrition range, will work for you, I’d suggest checking out the brand’s official website for more information.