Seems like these days there are lots of people eating protein bars and there are a lot of companies making protein bars. Some of us grab a bar if we are running late but need something to eat. Others just like the taste of a candy bar without the guilt of eating a candy bar. Then there are a few who use protein bars as part of their weight loss diet. Whatever your reason for choosing a protein bar it is important that you choose wisely what bar you eat and that you understand that not all protein bars are made the same way.
Some will help you reach your muscle building and fat loss goals, an equal number will take you down the other pathway. Let’s look at a few factors that may help you choose the best protein bar for the goal you have in mind.
1.Calorie Account
If you are counting your calories downing a 400 calorie protein bar for a meal replacement may not be the way for you to go. In fact, you will be better off eating fish, rice, and steamed vegetables. Look at it like this, if you only have a total of 1200 calories a day and you eat a 400 calorie bar for lunch that is a third of your calories for the day. On the other hand, if your goal is to build lean muscle mass and you’re struggling each day to get enough calories in, a 400 calorie protein bar may be your best bet.
2. Total Number Of Carbohydrates
Next take a look at the carbohydrate content of the bar. This can be extremely variable as well, especially with all the lower carb products coming out on the market.
If you are looking to lose fat, you probably don’t want to go much over about 30 grams of carbs per bar, and this could even be too high depending on your overall diet plan.
If you’re using the bar immediately after a workout, you can afford more carbohydrates as the main objective here is to have a high carbohydrate intake. When this is the case you want to choose a bar that is as low in fat as possible.
3. Presence Of Sugar Alcohols
When you’re choosing a protein bar that is quite low in total carb count, the next thing you want to look for is the presence of sugar alcohols. While many people will have no problem tolerating these, for others major issues can arise.
Some of the things that can occur include bloating, diarrhea, cramps, and bad gas. You will have to try them out for yourself to see if you react this way, but if you don’t these can be a very helpful fat loss aid.
4. Ingredient Panel Listings
Once you check out the calorie and carb counts you will want to check out the ingredient listings. The big thing to watch for here is the form of carbohydrates contained in the protein bar. Ideally you want to avoid high amounts of high-fructose corn syrup.
Many bars will have some HFCS in them, but if it’s lower on the list this will be a better choice than a bar that has it listed as the second or third ingredient
5. Dietary Fat Content
Be sure you check out the fat content. Unless you are using the protein bar post-workout it is a good idea to find a bar that does contain some fat since this will slow down the release of the carbs into the bloodstream and make it more balanced overall.
Just watch the level of saturated or trans fat. ( keep them as low as possible). If you can find a good bar with a healthy amount of dietary fat this will make for a far better addition to your diet plan and will definitely be a smarter choice than one of the commercial granola bars that are on the market that can contain trans fats.
6. Carbs To Protein Ratio
Now you need to check out is the carbs to protein ratio of the protein bar. This is important. You want be sure the protein content is high enough when compared to the carbohydrates.
If it has a very poor protein to carb ratio (meaning there are far more carbs than protein), you are no better off than you would be with a cereal bars you find in the supermarket.
The protein content is what makes a protein bar a protein bar, so it’s something you shouldn’t go without.
In order to ensure you have the best tasting and healthiest protein bar for the goal you want to acheive go to the professionals. Call WeightoWellness. They will help you set and reach your goals and the work of choosing what bars are best for you will be made for you. That alone is worth the call. Visit them today on the web. www.weightowellnessllc.com.
Phone: 205-994-2393