One could have seen Alani Nu Collagen Peptides as they went through The Vitamin Shoppe website or discovered it at a GNC or Academy Sports +Outdoors store. What is collagen? Is collagen a protein? Will it assist with losing weight, or is its purpose solely to give a soft and smooth look to the skin?
Let’s investigate the company, components, purchasers’ opinions, and scholarly research to determine what this item could do for you or might not do.
What Is Alani Nu?
Alani Nu was established in 2018 and has seen exceptional expansion due to the wide array of products they provide (not only whey protein), as well as its commitment to refining the flavor of its dietary supplements.
Alani Nu creates items such as protein powder, ready-made shakes, Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), vitality drinks, pre-training drinks, capsules for controlling hormones, and many more products.
Overview of Alani Nu’s Whey Protein
Alani Nu has created a whey protein that contains both whey protein isolate and whey protein hydrolysate. These are two of the quickest proteins to digest. This mixture also has digestive enzymes, different flavors, both organic and synthetic, and synthetic sweeteners.
Depending on the flavor, the macronutrient breakdown per serving of Alani Nu’s Whey Protein is as follows:
- Protein: 20-23g
- Carbs: 3-6g
- Fat: 0.5-1.5g
- Sugar: 1-2g
The Munchies has the highest levels of carbohydrates and sugar out of all the flavors at 6 grams, while the lowest amounts of carbs and sugar can be found in the Confetti Cake, Fruity Cereal, and Peanut Butter Brownie, with each only having 3 grams.
Alani Nu’s Whey Protein has a caloric count of 110 to 120 per serving, devoted primarily to protein, with 73 to 84% of its total calories.
A “reasonable” protein powder is one that contains between 65 and 75% protein in each serving, a “great” option has between 75 and 85% protein, and one that is “excellent” has more than 85% protein in each portion.
Munchies stands out because out of the choices, it has the lowest amount of protein at 73%, deeming it into the “reasonable” class while all other options boast a higher 76%-84%, making them all part of the “great” group.
Alani Nu has an adequate amount of protein per portion, though not to the same extent as Transparent Lab’s Whey Protein Isolate (click to read my review), which contains the greatest amount of protein I have ever encountered in a protein powder – 93%.
There are 7 criteria that we take into consideration when evaluating a protein powder; here’s how Alani Nu’s Whey Protein performs in each criterion:
1. Nutrition Label Transparency
Rating: 4/5
Alani’s Nu appears to be open about what is contained in their product, showing the amount of each ingredient on the nutrition label (except for trans fats, which will be dealt with shortly).
I suggest taking the time to look over the nutrition information on the product since some of the marketing claims may not be correct.
For example, while the protein content of their whey varies from 20 to 22 grams per serving, the product description for each product states that each serving provides up to 23 grams of their high-quality Whey Protein.
Although not a significant deviation, this could be attributed to an oversight; however, it reinforces the notion that information on a nutrition label should rely upon more than any statements the product releases.
2. Fat Content Transparency
Rating: 4/5
Alani Nu supplies data of the amount of fat, saturated fat, and trans fat for a sizable amount of its flavors; however, not all of them.
The absence of any trans fat information on the Munchies and Chocolate flavors of their protein product appears to be dubious.
Products should still have their trans fat content indicated on the label, even if there is no trans fat present in them. It looks like the organization is avoiding being open about the amount of fat in the items by leaving off the fact.
- Santa’s Favorite (seasonal): 5g total fat, 0g saturated, 0g trans fat
- Everything But The Cauldron: 0.5g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0g trans fat
- Confetti Cake: 1g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat
- Fruity Cereal: 1g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0g trans fat
- Munchies: 1.5g total fat, 1g saturated fat, X
- Frosted Flurry: 1g total fat, 0g saturated fat, 0g trans fat
- Peanut Butter Brownie: 1.1g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0g trans fat
- Chocolate: 1.5g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, X
3. Effective Ingredients
Rating: 4/5
Alani Nu provides top-notch components, specifically whey protein isolate and whey protein hydrolysate, which aid in the rapid digestion of proteins, supplying the body with beneficial amino acids to better mend muscle tissue damage.
This beverage also includes digestive enzymes to facilitate digestion and Vita Cherry Sport (based on tart cherry juice) which is theorized to reduce post-workout soreness and stimulate post-workout recovery.
Despite their use of artificial flavors and sweeteners such as sucralose, the quality of the product is negatively impacted since these additives can create digestive issues, especially for those with sensitive digestive systems.
If they had utilized stevia instead of sucralose, I would have given this protein a perfect rating.
4. Protein Percent of Calories
Rating: 3/5
Alani Nu’s Whey Protein offerings are mostly in the “great” bracket as far as how much protein is in one serving, aside from the Munchies variety which is classed as “fair”.
The tastes of these protein powders are what brings down the amount of protein each serving has. The majority of these items have components, like cookie crumbles, colored sugar sprinkles, and stabilizers (such as xanthan gum) to enhance their flavor and consistency.
Some may decide that the taste of a protein powder that is low in protein makes it worth the sacrifice of protein, yet others may rather opt for a product such as Transparent Labs that tastes great but provides more protein.
- Munchies: 73%
- Santa’s Favorite: 76% (seasonal)
- Frosted Flurry: 76%
- Chocolate: 77%
- Everything But The Cauldron: 80%
- Confetti Cake: 84%
- Fruity Cereal: 84%
- Peanut Butter Brownie: 84%
5. Taste/Flavor
Rating: 5/5
I had a wonderful culinary experience with Alani Nu Whey Protein, in particular, the peanut butter chocolate and the munchies tastes.
I discovered that the whey protein had a tremendous amount of taste and was the ideal measure of sugary goodness.
I need not add honey or maple syrup to my oatmeal or greek yogurt when I use Alani Nu’s whey protein because it gives my food enough flavor and sweetness that I don’t need any extra. In contrast, Naked Whey protein powder is not as tasty, so I require some type of sweetener to make my oatmeal and greek yogurt enjoyable.
6. Mixability
Rating: 5/5
Alani Nu’s whey protein pairs optimally with water, milk, or greek yogurt. It showed great results when used in baked oatmeal and protein balls.
I am confident in giving this protein a full mark out of 5 for its mixability since I have never encountered a situation where it does not dissolve easily.
7. Texture (Thick or Thin)
Rating: Thin
Alani Nu’s Whey Protein is not particularly dense, even though it contains several agents that generally increase the thickness (labeled as “gum blend” on the ingredients list).
This protein is more viscous than liquid but less dense than the other whey protein isolates that I have sampled (i.e. Transparent Labs).
If you like your protein to have a thicker texture, this whey protein is not the most suitable choice.
What is Alani Nu Collagen?
Alani Nu claims that their Collagen supplement can help improve the appearance of skin. What benefits does taking collagen have on the body, and why would someone want to consider taking it as a supplement?
- Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews: What is collagen? According to one peer-reviewed article, it is one of the most abundant proteins in mammals and is crucial for several body processes. It also examines various applications for collagen.
- Plastic and Aesthetic Research: A 2021 review article examined the role of collagen in the skin through life stages. It discusses the loss of collagen skin function through age and sun damage. Alani Nu Collagen provides collagen building blocks.
- Marine Drugs: There is a lot of buzz about protein powder supplements (like collagen) used for weight reduction. Results from a 2018 rodent study note that collagen peptide sourced from Skate demonstrates anti-obesity effects in high-fat-diet-fed mice.
Who is Behind Alani Nu Collagen?
Alani Nutrition LLC is responsible for the production of this collagen protein supplement. Katy Hearn and Haydn Schneider established the business in 2018. It appears that Trey Steiger and Max Clemons are the current proprietors.
Alani Nutrition LLC is dedicated to aiding their customers in being successful. They strive to communicate and establish trust with their audience, and they have garnered a strong group of loyal followers on various social media networks.
Alani Nu Collagen Claims
What does collagen do, according to Alani Nutrition? They assert that it aids in attaining soft and resilient skin, leading to a more youthful look. Using collagen in skin care is said to lessen wrinkles caused by age or sunlight exposure. There are claims that it increases the moisture in skin, helping it to maintain its flexibility and resilience to reduce or get rid of wrinkles.
Alani Nu Collagen Ingredients
The top ingredients in each scoop of Alani Nu Collagen are:
- Grass-fed Bovine Collagen 20g
- Vitamin C (as ascorbic acid) 90mg
- Hyaluronic Acid (as Sodium Hyaluronate) 80mg
- Sodium 35mg
- Other components used in the blend include Citric Acid, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium, and Spirulina Blue (Color).
Does Alani Nu Collagen Work?
Hyaluronic Acid is present in both your complexion and Alani Nu Collagen powder. Cell studies from 2020 revealed the significance of HA in regards to affecting the inflammatory, proliferative, and remodeling processes involved in skin regeneration.
Alani Nutrition uses hydrolyzed collagen, making it more bioavailable. It has been demonstrated by the International Journal of Dermatology that the intake of hydrolyzed collagen over a period of 90 days has the capability to decrease signs of skin aging. It can reduce lines and enhance skin flexibility and keep the skin hydrated.
Alani Nu capsules are designed to provide the full daily value of Vitamin C. It encourages the creation of collagen and provides a shield from the harmful effects of sunlight. In 2017, examining research information, it was determined that taking supplements may increase the amount of vitamins in the skin.
In the month of May 2020, the publication of The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology specified that collagen supplements have been demonstrated to have persistent impacts on indicators of skin aging. The journal continued to explore the reasons for the outcomes, determining three potential ways of working.
In 2017, the journal Skin Pharmacology and Physiology released the findings of a study that was executed in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled format. The participants were supplied with a bioactive collagen peptide that had antioxidants or a fake medicine. The article reports that the evidence indicates collagen supplementation may be beneficial for skin health.
Alani Nu Collagen and Weight Loss
Can consuming collagen as a form of protein aid in one’s weight loss efforts? The Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome asserts that high protein food regimens lead to weight reduction and reduce dangers accompanying cardiac ailments. Alani Nu Collagen contains 18g of protein.
A 2015 study reported in the British Journal of Nutrition has the possibility of providing weight loss. The results of the study showed that elderly participants on collagen supplements had a larger increase in muscle mass and a greater decrease in fat mass than those taken to be used as part of the control group.
Potential Alani Nu Collagen Side Effects
The results of our investigation did not indicate any severe problems attributed to the use of Alani Nu Collagen supplements. It must be noted that any item may lead to difficulties if ingested.
It is possible that taking dietary supplements can lead to allergic reactions or unwanted interactions with medications. Negative reactions could encompass difficulties with your gastrointestinal system, aches, and shifts in your psychological condition or emotion. The majority of the adverse effects of taking collagen are related to the digestive system and potential complications associated with raised calcium levels.
How to Take Alani Nu Collagen Peptides: Directions
A serving size is one scoop, approximately 24 grams. It is recommended to have one serving of Alani Nu Collagen Peptides with 8-16 ounces of water together with meals. The manufacturer does not provide an upper limit on the amount that can be taken in one day.
Alani Nu has created three varieties of its Collagen powder: Breezeberry, Rainbow Candy, and Plain.
Cost and Where to Buy
Alani Nu Collagen can be purchased at the majority of stores, in an 11.85-ounce container, giving you a two-week supply when taken once per day. Some of the larger retail outlets (online and in-store) include:
- Alani Nu website – $29.99 with a 5% discount with a subscription
- Amazon – $29.99 to $41.60 depending on the flavor (no subscription discount offered)
- GNC – $29.99 with a 10% discount when you subscribe
- The Vitamin Shoppe – $29.99 with a 10% discount with auto-delivery
This supplement is also obtainable at certain local retailers. The retailer Academy Sports + Outdoors, which is based in Texas, has a 30-serving size package listed for $44.99. In Canada, Supplement King has the 11.85oz bottle available for purchase at $39.99.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Alani Nu Collagen Peptides come in three flavorings that help eliminate the typical collagen drinks taste.
- Collagen drinks from Alani Nu contain 18 grams of protein.
- Hydrolyzed collagen is more bioavailable, so it’s easier for your body to absorb.
Cons
- Alani Nu Collagen supplements are not a complete protein source.
- The benefits of collagen supplementation can take a while to show.
- You pay a lot for 14 scoops of protein powder.
Bottom Line on Alani Nu Collagen Results
Alani Nu Collagen may be able to restore your skin to its youthful vibrancy and diminish the visible signs of aging or sun damage. The effects of taking collagen are mild, yet there are positive outcomes of consuming collagen in supplement form. This collagen protein can be purchased from local stores like Supplement King, as well as through major online outlets such as Amazon. You will be charged more than two dollars for the potential advantages.
Noom does not promote weight loss through collagen, although that is a common assumption. A lot of time was put into creating a weight-loss program that was based on psychology in an unconventional manner compared to other programs. It’s those differences that set Noom apart.