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Koia Protein Review - 12 Things You Need to Know

By Summer Banks FNS, SPT, (expert review)

Koia Protein – Protein supplements and plant-based drinks have been a normal addition to people’s daily diet for some time now. Koia is one example. Is this brand as nutritional as it claims? Can it assist with weight loss? What are the pros and cons of using Koia Protein? Our researchers dug deep to find out all they could so you know the details on this plant-based supplement.

Koia Protein can be purchased through their Official Site.

Koia Protein Readers: Noom is offering our readers a risk-free trial, for a limited time. Click here for more information!
Overview

What is Koia Protein?

what is koia protein

Koia Protein is a dairy-free, plant-based protein shake that claims to deliver a potent nutritional punch without compromising on taste. Each serving packs an impressive 18 grams of protein, coupled with a minimal 4 grams of sugar, and a substantial 7 grams of gut-boosting prebiotic fiber. Moreover, it proudly carries the label of being gluten-free.

Available in a range of flavors, including Vanilla Bean, Cacao Bean, Chocolate Banana, Cinnamon Horchata, Cold Brew, and Chocolate Peanut Butter, Koia Protein offers a creamy and satisfying alternative for individuals seeking a convenient and nutritious option. Whether you’re pressed for time in the morning, in need of a post-workout replenishment, or simply looking to augment your protein intake, Koia stands as a viable solution for those prioritizing a wholesome diet.

Before getting into the details of Koia, let’s look at some of the research backing the benefits of protein shakes.

  • The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Though at least 25% of people choose to skip breakfast, research shows that choice isn’t reflected in weight loss or improved performance during exercise or training. 
  • Frontiers in Nutrition: Muscles are sensitive to protein and nutrients for up to 72 hours after a workout. According to research, “consuming nothing post-workout would be an unwise strategy.”
  • The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Skipping breakfast can lead to obesity and many other issues. Adding protein to your morning meal can provide several benefits, including minimizing the risk of obesity. Though eating a full, high-protein breakfast is the best option, adding a protein shake when you’re in a hurry can go a long way.

Koia Protein Competitors

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Company

Who Makes Koia Protein?

Koia Protein is the brainchild of founders Dustin Baker and Maya French, who launched the company several years ago with a vision to address the root causes of health challenges rather than merely treating symptoms. After Dustin’s experience in medical equipment sales, he was motivated to create nutritious and great-tasting drinks designed for holistic well-being.

Maya French and Dustin Baker, who met in 2012 and initially ventured into the juice business, founded Koia. They successfully sold their juice products to grocery stores in Chicago before Maya’s discovery of lactose intolerance sparked the inspiration to develop a dairy-free protein drink. This pivotal moment led to the decision to phase out their juice line and instead focus on expanding plant-based, low-sugar, high-protein drinks that promote better nutrition.

As Koia gained popularity, Baker and French recognized the need for additional expertise and support. They welcomed Chris Hunter, a seasoned veteran in the beverage industry, as an additional co-founder and CEO. Together, this dynamic trio has propelled Koia from a local favorite to a national health trend, with their products now available at both local and national retailers across the country.

It’s important to note that the claims about Koia’s shakes being nutrient-dense, high in protein, and suitable for various lifestyles are asserted by the founders themselves.

Koia Protein Customer Service

You can reach the customer service department through their website at: https://drinkkoia.com/contact. Simply fill out the form to chat with a member of the team.

Other Products From the Makers of Koia Protein

In addition to the protein shakes, Koia offers two other products.

Keto Shakes

Koia Keto Shakes are made from plant protein, healthy fats, and no added sugar. You can choose from the following flavors:

  • Raspberry Lava Cake
  • Chocolate Brownie
  • Cake Batter
  • Caramel Creme
  • 12-Count Variety Pack

Smoothies

Koia smoothies include no dairy, gluten, or soy. They are vegan, have low sugar, and prebiotic fiber. You can choose from the following options:

  • Straw-nana Dream
  • Mango Magic
  • Glowing Greens
  • Rise & Shine
  • Tropical Passion
  • 12-Count Variety Pack
Claims

Koia Protein Claims

koia protein claims

Koia developed their protein shakes in an attempt to provide a nutritious, on-the-go meal or snack for busy and active lifestyles. Koia shakes are made with plant protein, almond milk, low sugar, and nine amino acids that the body needs, according to MedlinePlus.gov.

These shakes are vegan, non-GMO, and high in fiber. Additionally, they are gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.

Ingredients

Koia Protein Ingredients

  • Almond milk
  • Proprietary blend of complete plant protein from:
    • Peas
    • Brown rice
    • Chickpeas
  • Cane sugar
  • Sea salt
  • Nutmeg
  • Sunflower lecithin
  • Locust bean gum
  • Gellan gum
  • Vanilla bean powder
  • Vanilla extract
  • Monk fruit extract
  • Natural flavors
Does it Work?

Does Koia Protein Work?

Koia Protein shakes are said to be a great source of nutrition, especially for those on the go or who need a post-workout boost. While there is no direct proof regarding this particular brand of protein shake, the ingredients in the shake seem to back this claim – at least to some degree. Read more about the most common ingredients and their benefits below.

Almond Milk

Almond milk has become a desired substitute for many, thanks to its taste, nutrition, and lack of dairy, according to the IFAS Extension of the University of Florida. It’s rich in fiber, healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Pea Protein

Pea protein comes from yellow peas. It is rich in iron and contains all nine of the amino acids your body needs. This makes it what’s called a complete protein. Pea protein is one of the easiest plant proteins to digest, and it is healthy for heart and muscle growth.

Brown Rice Protein

Brown rice protein provides several benefits. It contains antioxidants, B vitamins, healthy fats, and fiber. It is also known for assisting in maintaining a healthy weight.

 Chickpea Protein

Chickpea protein is beneficial for muscle, skin, and bone health says research in the journal Nutrients. It is a great source of fiber, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, B vitamins, and antioxidants.

Chicory Root Fibers

According to The Scientific World Journal, chicory root is another great source of fiber and antioxidants as well as prebiotics and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s low in calories and often used as a tasty replacement for sugar.

Weight Loss

Koia Protein and Weight Loss

koia protein and weight loss

While there are no guarantees, Koia Protein does have the potential to help you lose weight thanks to the following facts:

  • A study published in Food and Nutrition Sciences says that people who replace one helping of dairy per day with almond milk for four weeks decreased in body weight, BMI, and waist and hip sizes.
  • Shakes are full of fiber, which can reduce your appetite and promote weight loss.
  • They are also packed with protein, which is helpful for maintaining a healthy metabolism and reducing appetite.

It’s important to note that while these factors can impact weight loss, results can vary among users. Adding Koia Protein to other healthy lifestyle changes, such as a regular exercise routine, can improve the overall results.

Side Effects

Koia Protein Side Effects

Side effects aren’t typically a problem with protein shakes. However, Koia Protein packs quite a lot of fiber. Fiber can cause stomach discomfort, loose stools, or even constipation, in some people if they increase fiber intake too quickly. 

How to Use

How to Use Koia Protein?

Koia Protein comes in ready-to-use bottles that you can simply drink. However, you can get creative with the ways you take it in. Some people use it as a coffee creamer substitute. Others enjoy adding it to their oatmeal. The ways you can consume Koia Protein are as limitless as your imagination.

Where to Buy

Cost and Where to Buy

Koia Protein is available at many retailers, including Walmart. It is also available at health and grocery stores, including GNC, Publix, and Whole Foods. You can also purchase it online through several retailers, like Amazon, and directly through the Koia website.

Through Koia’s website, you can purchase a 12 pack of your favorite flavor for under $48. Single bottles at retailers tend to range between $3 and $5.

Pros and Cons

Koia Protein Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Convenient, ready-to-go drink.
  • Great source of protein, fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Comes in several flavor options.
  • Gluten-free, vegan, soy-free, and non-GMO.
  • Dairy-free for those with lactose intolerance.
  • Low in sugar.

Cons

  • Some Koia Protein drink reviews report a strange texture and after taste.
  • Can get expensive if you use them often.
  • Contains almond milk, so it’s not a good choice for those with a nut allergy.
What Users Are Saying

What Users Are Saying

“I ordered the cinnamon horchata shake and it was delicious.”

“I have one every morning for breakfast. Love the taste and the convenience, just wish Whole Foods could keep it in stock. They don’t seem to understand that when there is a high demand that they should meet that demand by ordering more.”

“I feel like you should be obligated to say that you used sugar substitutes, cause to some its not a pleasant experience to have that disgusting bitterness in our mouth.”

Bottom Line

Bottom Line on Koia Protein Results

There is no scientific research directly targeting Koia Protein, making it difficult to determine its overall effectiveness. However, there is plenty of research on the ingredients of Koia Protein and protein shakes as a whole. This research leads one to believe that it does, in fact, offer some potential health and weight-loss benefits.

Additionally, Koia Protein drink reviews from customers report feeling energized and healthy from the use of the product. So, while there are no clinical studies of the product, the basic information and reviews make it seem like a positive product to add to your diet if you don’t mind paying the price.

If you’re looking to lose weight for the last time, we suggest pairing Koia Protein with a proven solution like Noom. With Noom you get a personal coach to help you through the hard times and celebrate the accomplishments. This unique weight-loss solution is considered one of the most effective because it combines the mental, physical, and food choices you make daily.

Take the time to check out Noom while the free trial offer lasts.

Learn More About Noom »
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Koia Protein

Q:
What is Koia Protein?
A:

Koia Protein is a plant-based protein shake that provides a dairy-free and nutrient-rich alternative. Packed with 18 grams of protein, 4 grams of sugar, and 7 grams of prebiotic fiber, it is a gluten-free option suitable for those conscious of their nutritional intake. It comes in different flavors and can be used as a meal or snack replacement, or as a post-workout drink.

Q:
Who makes Koia Protein?
A:

Koia Protein is crafted by Koia, a company founded by Dustin Baker and Maya French. Originally in the juice business, they transitioned to create plant-based, low-sugar, high-protein drinks that promote better nutrition. Chris Hunter, a beverage industry veteran, joined them as a co-founder and CEO, propelling Koia into a national health trend. The claims about Koia’s shakes are made by the founders.

Q:
What other products does Koia offer?
A:

In addition to protein shakes, Koia offers two other product lines: Koia Keto Shakes and Koia Smoothies. Both are also plant-based and free of dairy, gluten, and soy.

Q:
How can I contact Koia's customer service?
A:

You can reach Koia’s customer service department through their website at https://drinkkoia.com/contact. Simply fill out the form to chat with a member of the team.

Q:
What are the ingredients in Koia Protein?
A:

The ingredients in Koia Protein include almond milk, a proprietary blend of plant protein from peas, brown rice, and chickpeas, cane sugar, sea salt, nutmeg, sunflower lecithin, locust bean gum, gellan gum, vanilla bean powder, vanilla extract, monk fruit extract, and natural flavors.

Q:
Where can I buy Koia Protein?
A:

Koia Protein can be purchased using their Official Site.

Q:
Is Koia Protein vegan?
A:

Yes, Koia Protein is completely vegan and is made without any animal products or byproducts.

Q:
Is Koia Protein gluten-free?
A:

Yes, Koia Protein is gluten-free and is made without any wheat, barley, or rye ingredients.

Q:
Is Koia a meal replacement?
A:

No, Koia is not a meal replacement. Koia products are vegan plant-based protein shakes that contain probiotics and proteins to support immune health and muscle maintenance. They can be enjoyed as an on-the-go snack or used in addition to meals, but they are not intended to replace entire meals.

Q:
Is Koia Protein soy-free?
A:

Yes, Koia Protein is soy-free and is made without any soy-based ingredients.

Q:
Does Koia Protein contain any GMOs?
A:

No, Koia Protein is non-GMO and does not contain any genetically modified ingredients.

Q:
Can Koia Protein help with weight loss?
A:

While there are no guarantees, Koia Protein does have the potential to aid in weight loss due to its high fiber and protein content. Studies have shown that both fiber and protein can help reduce appetite and promote weight loss.

Q:
What are the benefits of the protein sources in Koia Protein?
A:

The protein sources in Koia Protein, including pea protein, brown rice protein, and chickpea protein, are all complete proteins that provide all nine essential amino acids the body needs. They are also low in fat and high in fiber, making them a healthy and nutritious option.

Q:
Are there any downsides to using Koia Protein?
A:

While Koia Protein is generally considered to be a healthy and nutritious option, it is important to note that it does contain cane sugar and natural flavors, which may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or health concerns. Additionally, some people may experience digestive issues or other side effects from consuming plant-based protein sources.

3 Koia Protein Reviews

  • L

    I have a GI issue every time I drink a Koia Protein drink. I am sure it relates to the increase plant based protein. It also has an after taste.

    Reply
  • J

    Love the taste but every time I drink one, I have unbearable stomach pain that lasts like 3 days. Took me a while to figure out it was the Koia shakes. I eat a high fiber diet already so not sure which ingredient is the cause.

    Reply
  • Shamara myers (Verified Purchase)

    Love them

    Reply
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