As a fitness trainer, I’m often asked about protein bars. Are they actually good for us? Which ones should I eat?
I tell my clients that bars are a good substitute as a post-workout meal or as a snack. This is especially true when you’re on the go and don’t know when you will have your next meal. I also tell them to keep one handy in the glove compartment or their purse in case they get stuck somewhere and can’t get to eat real food. However, we shouldn’t rely on them to replace whole food.
There are so many bars on the market that it can be overwhelming and difficult to choose the right one. What differentiates one bar from the next is the calorie count, the ingredients, the amount of sugar, protein, fat, and carbs.
1. Look For The Calories And The Serving Size
For example, the label might read two hundred fifty calories but the serving size is half of a bar. If you eat the whole
bar, then that’s 500 total calories off the top. If eating the bar as a snack, then it should contain a smaller or snack size number of calories.
2. Look For The Ingredients
Keep it simple. The fewer ingredients, the better.
3. Look For The Protein Content
If you’re trying to increase your protein intake, look for bars with a much higher amount of protein rather than a snack size. A good number to look for is 15 to 30g of protein depending on your size. You can go with a smaller amount if you’re just looking for an energy-boosting snack.
4. Look For The Sugar Content
Keep your sugar and carbohydrate amount low. Look for bars that have at least 5 grams of fiber and less than
5 grams of added sugars.
5. Look For The Fat Content
If the bars are made with a lot of healthy fats, keep in mind that it is better suited as a snack that will help fill you up. If you’re looking for a post-workout bar, keep in mind that these healthy fats can slow down the number of carbs and protein that your body needs. Look for low-fat bars.
The bottom line is that bars can be a good substitute for a meal or as a snack, provided you are eating plenty of whole foods. There are different bars for different needs. Decide what your goals are, how much protein intake you need and whether you need a bar as a snack or a post-workout (in which the higher protein amount is more important) meal.
Jaena Mebane, a graduate of Fordham University-B.A., Fitness Professional, Bodybuilder and creator of GLUTEUS FABULOUS. My motto is “Inspiring Others to Live a Healthy Lifestyle, Mind, Body, and Soul.” You can find me on Instagram @gluteus_fabulous
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