Protein Bars: What They Are and What They Do

Strength athletes and fitness enthusiasts have long used protein bars over the years.  They are now commonly sought among the general population for those looking to find a fitness or weight loss regime.  Since protein is known for its fat burning benefits, more people are also looking at protein powder and protein shakes as supplements to their diet needs.  However, protein bars are still favorites for those looking to add more protein to their diets.

Protein usually comes in three forms: soy, whey and casein.  Soy protein bars are low in fat and contain no cholesterol.  Soy protein contains phytochemicals such as isoflavones, phytc acid and saponins.  Such phytochemicals are not only strong antioxidants, but they have also been linked to a reduction of cancer risk, heart disease and osteoporosis.

Whey protein help you gain lean mass, but consumption of too much whey protein can cause liver damage.  However, this particular protein is better for you if you are lactose intolerant.  Whey protein is better for fat loss than soy protein and also been linked to cancer prevention.  It increases glutathione levels to enhance immune function and may assist T-cell activity during sickness.

Casein protein helps prevent muscle break down and are generally low in lactose.  They are good for meal replacement as they make you feel full.  Casein supplements are also taken before bed to keep the protein fueling muscles during sleep.  Since the protein absorbs slowly, it takes longer to digest and keeps you fuller longer while you sleep.

There are literally hundreds of protein bars on the market, so it may be difficult to known exactly which one will best fit your needs.  Your needs may be influenced by complex needs such as allergies or simple preferences such as taste.  Perhaps you would like a variety of bars that give you a choice in flavors.  In that case, you might look at something like Promax protein bars.  

These bars come in many flavors including black forest cake, chocolate chip cookie dough, chocolate mint, chocolate peanut crunch, cookies ‘n’ cream, double fudge brownie, German chocolate cake, honey peanut, lemon bar, nutty butter crisp and rocky road.  Promax also features 70-calorie snack bars that contain no high fructose corn syrup.  Of course, all bars contain antioxidants, minerals and vitamins.  They are also widely available in all types of outlets including drugstores, fitness chains, grocery stores and gyms.

There are other types of bars available from many other brands such as Balance Bars, Detour Caramel, GeniSoy, Nashua Nutrition, Nature’s Best, Nature’s Plus, Optimum Nutrition, PowerBar, Protein Plus, Pure Protein and Pure Protein High.  Some bars may be better for different needs.  For instance, those who prefer an Atkins diet may want a specific type of bar while women may want bars made with their bodies in mind.  In any case, the bars should contain at least ten grams of protein and less than ten grams of sugar.