If you’re always looking for convenient yet healthy snacks for the family, you’ve probably got a stash of protein bar in your pantry. But what if I told you that some of these bars might be wolfing down in sheep’s clothing?
Understanding the Protein Story
Let’s start by chatting about the star player in these bars – protein. I get it, we’re all trying to make sure our families get enough of this powerhouse nutrient. Whether it’s for the kiddo’s soccer practice, our morning runs, or just the daily grind, protein is essential. But here’s the kicker, not all protein is created equal.
When we talk about protein, we’re actually talking about the amino acids that make it up. A solid protein source should have all nine essential amino acids. And guess what? The prime source of these bad boys is meat. So if you’re thinking steak sounds like a delicious protein bar… you’re on the right track! Honestly, a beef jerky stick might be closer to the ideal protein snack than some of the bars out there.
Unwrapping the Truth
Now, I’ve stumbled upon protein bars that taste eerily similar to my favorite desserts (hello, cookie dough!). But the truth is, many of these are just candy bars in disguise. Some bars use plant proteins like peas or rice, which don’t quite hit the mark in terms of what our bodies can make the most of. And don’t even get me started on bars that boast about their protein content from nuts… when nuts are mainly about fats.
Also, ever thought your protein bar tasted a bit too sweet? You’re not alone. Many have heaps of sugar, and yes, even the dreaded high fructose corn syrup. And the sneaky addition of soy and non-organic ingredients? Yep, they’re in there too.
Watch Out for These Suspects
Next time you’re shopping, you might want to give these bars a closer look (or maybe skip ’em):
- Quest Bars
- Quaker Protein Baked Bars
- Kellogg’s FiberPlus Antioxidants Protein Chewy Bars
- Zone Perfect Classic Nutrition Bar
- MET-Rx ProteinPlus Protein Bars
- Gatorade Whey Protein Bar
- Oh Yeah! High Protein Bar
- Detour Simple Whey Protein Bar
- KIND Protein Bar
- Naked Bar
Your Safer Bets
But it’s not all gloom and doom. Here are some brands that have earned a spot in my pantry:
- Julian Bakery’s Paleo Protein Bars
- RXBar
- Chomps Meat Sticks
- Epic Provisions Meat Bars, Sticks, and Jerky
- Epic Performance Bars
- Tanka Bars
Bringing It All Together
It’s tough navigating the maze of the snack aisle, but armed with a bit of knowledge, we can make better choices for our families. Next time you’re tempted by a shiny protein bar wrapper, give it a once-over. Check those ingredients. And when you’re unsure? Maybe it’s time to give good ol’ beef jerky a chance.
Stay smart and snack-happy, folks!
P.S. Remember, it’s not about perfection but making informed choices. Let’s keep our families fueled the right way!
References:
- Schoenfeld, Brad Jon, and Alan Albert Aragon. “How much protein can the body use in a single meal for muscle-building? Implications for daily protein distribution.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition vol. 15 10. 27 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1186/s12970-018-0215-1
- Phillips, Stuart M, and Luc J C Van Loon. “Dietary protein for athletes: from requirements to optimum adaptation.” Journal of sports sciences vol. 29 Suppl 1 (2011): S29-38. doi:10.1080/02640414.2011.619204
- “Protein and Amino Acids.” Recommended Dietary Allowances: 10th Edition, U.S. National Library of Medicine, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books.
- “Amino Acid: Benefits & Food Sources.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22243-amino-acids.
- Reid-McCann, R.J., Brennan, S.F., McKinley, M.C. et al. The effect of animal versus plant protein on muscle mass, muscle strength, physical performance and sarcopenia in adults: protocol for a systematic review. Syst Rev 11, 64 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-022-01951-2
- Nair, Divek VT et al. “Food Additive Guar Gum Aggravates Colonic Inflammation in Experimental Models of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.” Current Developments in Nutrition vol. 5,Suppl 2 1142. 7 Jun. 2021, doi:10.1093/cdn/nzab061_026
- Tobacman, J K. “Review of harmful gastrointestinal effects of carrageenan in animal experiments.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 109,10 (2001): 983-94. doi:10.1289/ehp.01109983
- Ruiz-Ojeda, Francisco Javier et al. “Effects of Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota: A Review of Experimental Studies and Clinical Trials.” Advances in nutrition (Bethesda, Md.) vol. 10,suppl_1 (2019): S31-S48. doi:10.1093/advances/nmy037
