Listen up, Vegans! And, non-vegans alike. There are a new Vegan Protein Shake and a woman behind its creation. That woman is Maya French from Chicago, Illinois and her drink, Koia, is making its way across the U.S.
Early this year, 28-year-old Maya French made the Forbes Top 30 under 30 for her plant-based beverage, a truly vegan protein shake. It all started with lactose intolerance. Maya French was a workout enthusiast, always in the gym, always looking for a way to increase her muscle mass. What better bulk up than with protein shakes? But, because of her intolerance, there was no way for her to drink traditional protein shakes without having to t run to the bathroom. And what do you do when you need something that isn’t necessarily available to you? You make it yourself. That’s how Drink Koia was born. And, what’s better than vegan protein.
2013 was the year of Koia. It’s development began and it hit the ground running. The most unique thing about Koia is a) it’s named after the Nicoya Pennisula in Costa Rica, a place known for its natives and how they seem to live forever, and b) it is completely plant-based.
Well, we’re glad you asked. Unlike most protein drinks, Koia is made with zero artificial ingredients. Let’s make that clear first and foremost. The ingredients are quite simple. Each drink is made with a blend of almonds, peas and brown rice. At least, 18 grams of protein and 4 grams of sugar are in every bottle, also no GMO’s. But, that’s only half of it! Let’s list the rest, monk fruit extract, vanilla, sea salt, sunflower lecithin, and nutmeg. You know its good for you when you can pronounce all of the ingredients with ease! Just another way that Koia makes being vegan easy.
Here’s another list for you:
On Amazon, the nutrition label for each drink is detailed as such:
No, we aren’t leaving anything out. They are just this simple!
Even the next evolution of Koia, Koia Keto, is starting to make waves. The keto diet is a low carb, low fat, low low-calorie diet that reduces carbs to help weight loss. So, it only makes sense for this protein shake to be apart of the keto trend. There are only Keto three flavors, at the moment, Chocolate Brownie, Caramel Creme and Cake Batter. Each flavor has been noted individual in their own right. Example, the Cake Batter flavor is “light in body … and has the lowest amount of sweetener aftertaste”. Whereas the Chocolate Brownie is “thick and indulgent” and the Caramel Creme is more than likely heavy on the caramel; because its what the people want. with these flavors, Koia is changing a low-carb Keto diet to a triple Vegan diet.
But if you aren’t really into Keto, no worries, try the other Koia flavors. Cacao Bean, Vanilla Bean, Coconut Almond, Cold Brew Coffee, and Cinnamon Horchata. All of these flavors are available wherever vegan protein shakes are sold.
French’s lactose intolerance and muscle gain weren’t the only reasons for Koia’s creation. In a few interviews about her new product, French commented on how most people live overstressed lives which made for bad eating habits. But not everyone can say they have time to fully indulge in a super healthy lifestyle. So, Koia steps in and makes it easier. If you’re in a rush for breakfast, need a quick snack, or a post-workout beverage, then you know that Koia has you covered.
In these little 12 ounce bottles, there is an energizing creamy drink. They can even be used as a creamer for your coffee. This way if you’re not feeling a whole bottle, you can at least have a good bit of protein to start your day. But, Koia’s convenience makes it easy to take a bottle on the go. Be sure to keep them refrigerated, just for freshness of taste (also, vegan shakes need to be kept at a good cold temperature).
As a courtesy, we’ve taken the time to find reviews about Maya’s product!
“Cold Brew Coffee flavor is delicious. I pour it in the blender and add ice chips for a mid-morning pick me up. So good!” – Paula, DrinkKoia.
“We feel like we are doing something right for our health and enjoy it at the same time! We ordered your product online and received it seamlessly.” – Dante A., DrinkKoia.
“Since I drink two Koia’s a day, I like to have different flavors of Koia’s. The chocolate and vanilla are the easiest to find and I wouldn’t wanna be without either of them because they are helpful to me in aiding in my weight loss journey” – Florida B., Target.
“I can’t drink caffeine, so that’s a plus! This is the best way for me personally to describe this flavor of Koia Cinnamon Horchata. It taste really good to me. It is a very unique taste.” – Florida B., Target.
“Absolutely love this drink! Great chocolaty taste without the junk. I used it as a post-workout snack but you can use it for breakfast, a smoothie base, or as a chocolaty treat. Will order again!” – Morgan W., Amazon.
“I love love love this stuff. I am so glad I found it and tried it. The very best pre-made smoothie I have ever bought. While I am perfecting my own home smoothies ( that’s going to be a while I think, I’m way off the beam) I have found Koia — actually, I found it at a grocery outlet for $2.49. I bought 3, the next day bought a few more, and the next day more. I tried it because it was inexpensive at this outlet, for a quick breakfast.” – Lisa M., Amazon.
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