Protein Bars: What You Need to Know

Protein bars have become a darling of fitness enthusiasts — being the most convenient way to load up on protein. Packaged in attractive wrapping and available in a variety of flavors, it’s no wonder that they are a much sought-after snacks.

But what exactly are protein bars comprised of? And are they necessarily good for you? Read on to learn more about them.

Recommended Read: Should Your Child Have Protein Bars?

What are protein bars made of?

Protein bars are comprised of high-quality protein that is obtained from rich sources such as milk, soy and eggs. They are believed to be able to serve as a substitute to consumption of high-quality protein obtained from eggs and from chicken and other forms of lean meat. As a result, protein bars are frequently used by athletes and bodybuilders who are seeking to build muscle, as well as those participating in endurance activities such as swimming, marathons and gymnastics.

The benefits of having protein bars

Well, for starters, protein bars are protein-rich, as is self-evident! They contribute essential amino acids to your diet that help build muscle mass, heal damaged tissue, manufacture hormones, and synthesize red and white blood cells.

Moreover, from a convenience standpoint, they are readily available and do not require any special preparation, or even refrigeration for storage. They also keep you satiated for a while.

The drawbacks of having protein bars

While some protein bars contain natural sugars, derived from fruits and dates, other bars contain artificial sweeteners and other preservatives. These give you additional calories that you could do without, and which counterbalance the positives of protein bar consumption. Some protein bars even contain alcohol as sweeteners, which can potentially cause diarrhoea, flatulence and bloating.

Moreover, however healthy protein bars are, they are no substitute to whole foods, which provide your body with a number of nutrients that protein bars do not give you — at least, not in adequate amounts. These include minerals, vitamins, phytochemicals, heart-healthy fats and fiber.

So before you use protein bars, keep in mind both their benefits and their drawbacks. Use them judiciously, and make sure that you pick bars that do not include too many potentially unhealthy ingredients and/or artificial sweeteners.