Benefits of protein bars

Protein is an essential nutrient that enables metabolic reactions, helps build and repair tissues, and provides energy for routine functions. It comes from natural sources like meat, fish, eggs, and nuts. However, not many people find enough time to have a proper meal and some do not simply take a balanced diet. Protein bars come in handy for such people.

What are Protein Bars?

Protein bars are ready-to-eat treats that come as both snacks and meal replacements. It is convenient to carry around and ideal for people who remain busy for most of the day. These bars have different ingredients, but most of them are inclusive of crucial nutrients like protein, fiber, and fat. The quantity of the components varies on the basis of their primary source as well as the flavors.

Many protein bars include dates, nuts, seeds, and whole grains while some are formed of dairy. Some include processed oils like peanut and soya as well. A healthy protein bar contains at least 5 grams of fiber, 20-30 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat, and below 35 percent sugar.

While most of the bars contain similar amounts of nutrients, they usually exceed the said mark in sugar calories. Along with protein, these bars also provide micronutrients like vitamins, calcium, iron, and potassium. However, many of these bars provide a high amount of added sugar, which is detrimental to health. So, be mindful of the sugar content when you buy these healthy, get-and-gobble snacks.

Benefits of Protein Bars

Energy bars offer many health benefits and are convenient as well.

Nutrient-Packed: Protein bars are loaded with nutrients. Because of their fiber and protein content, both of which promote satiety, get you going for long. They can be a good source to attain the recommended intake of protein and other nutrients.

Moreover, they keep you energized during a workout and other physical activities. They can also aid muscle repair needed due to strenuous workouts. Moreover, protein bars with higher fiber content promote digestive health. Since they also have other micronutrients like vitamins and calcium, they can contribute to the daily recommended intake of these nutrients.

Weight Loss

Protein and fiber promote weight loss by promoting satiety. Several studies show that diets high in protein help shed a few more pounds as compared to diets with average protein content. However, to achieve healthy weight loss, you need to do regular exercise and consume a balanced diet along with healthy protein bars. Also, avoid high sugar protein bars because that will just kill the purpose of consuming these bars altogether.

Alternative to Meals

Protein bars are also a good alternative to meals, especially breakfast and lunch. Many people rush to work and want to skip breakfast. However, this is not a healthy choice. They can be a good alternative to breakfast, as one can gobble them up while running off to catch the train or sitting in a car.

Similarly, lunch breaks are usually consumed by emails and other work-related tasks. Or they might not just be long enough for one to go off and grab a bite. These bars are a perfect choice here, as they are healthy, convenient, and way better than a donut or chips.

Muscle Gain

Protein bars also help accelerate the outcomes of a workout. If you are struggling to gain muscle or are someone with higher muscle mass, consuming more protein is the way to go. Experts recommend that athletes, especially strength-trained ones, should consume 0.54-0.77 grams of protein on one pound of their body weight.

Studies indicate that taking additional protein in the form of supplements can increase the performance in physical activity and also muscle mass. They are a better option, as they are providing other nutrients too and not just protein. However, there should not be total reliance on protein bars. They should be added to the balanced diet plan.

Weight Gain

Protein bars also help with weight gain, as they help consume additional calories. Most of these bars are loaded with calories and can be a healthy addition to your diet intake. Some mark a calorie count of 350 per serving. So, you can easily consume additional calories without having to eat a lot. However, be careful with the sugar calories. They might help with weight gain but would harm your health in the long run.