What Are Protein Bars

Protein bars are exactly like protein powder in that they are used for the same purpose, to supplement your body with well needed protein. The main difference between this bodybuilding supplement is that a bar doesn’t need to be mixed with a liquid, and is small enough to carry around in your pocket or purse. They are formulated to be a perfect meal replacement all wrapped up n a quick and easy bar. It is easy to take them with you to work or to school or anywhere that you need to get your protein or satisfy your hunger in a healthy way. These bars can be used as a high protein, low carb and low fat meal replacement, or simply as a snack. A nutrition bar provides quick and convenient quality protein, and often includes carbohydrates and essential fats for a more complete snack.

Be sure to choose a high quality bar, one that will provide you with the essential amino acids to support growth, strong bodies, and good health. Keep in mind that at least 50 grams of protein per day are recommended for most people, but bodybuilders, athletes or active individuals may require 60 to 70 grams a day. As a meal replacement, a higher protein bar may be a better choice for those days when you do not have the time to prepare a meal with adequate protein.

The nutritional industry has been working hard and spending millions of dollars in creating, not only healthy bars, but ones that taste good too. Some of these supplements taste as good as a candy bar! You will look forward to eating them each day, and at the same time you will be getting the nutrition that you need. Choose a popular bar if you are worried about taste…the ones that people buy and recommend usually are the ones that taste the best!

Why You Need It

The key nutrients in a nutrition bar keep you healthy and enhance your training results. This is especially beneficial to bodybuilders and athletes, who go the extra mile in their training endeavor, as well as health conscious individuals.

Daily Dosage

Eat one or two protein bars daily as needed to boost protein intake. Choose a bar that contains at least 20 g of protein, however, be careful to watch for those that are high in saturated-fat content (5 g per serving) and high-fructose corn syrup. Bars with a high amount of sugar alcohols like glycerol and maltitol may cause serious stomach problems for some people. The sugar alcohol amount in each bar is usually listed on the label, so be sure to read it before buying it. Remember to always drink plenty of water with protein bars to aid indigestion.

Which Bar To Take

So, which bar is right for you? If you are trying to lose fat, you will most likely want a low carb, low calorie one. The extra protein will help you keep your current muscle mass. If you are trying to gain muscle, you would want a high protein, high calorie one that is relatively low in sugar and fat. If you are simply trying to find a quick meal replacement, a protein bar with medium carbs and medium calories would most likely be for you.

Bonus Tips

Another dubious ingredient popping up in nutrition bars is hydrolyzed collagen protein also known as gelatin. This is an incomplete protein that doesn’t do much for building quality muscle, but it does have some benefits relevant to joint and skin health.

The three most important times to take these protein bars are the first thing in the morning upon waking, the last thing at night before retiring and directly after your workout. However, remember that the main reason for eating a high protein diet in the first place, is to give your body the protein it needs all day long, which is why it would be a good idea to eat a small meal once every three hours.