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There is much discussion about protein bar nutrition facts and it is important to know the facts before you buy a protein bar. A quick look at the nutrition facts will list all protein bar ingredients and these ingredients are listed in order of percentage in the protein content of the product.
When you look at protein bar calorie counts, the main item that is listed is ‘Carbohydrates / Fats’ and there are three items after this, listed which are High Fructose Corn Syrup, hydrogenated oils, and margarine.1 The reason that protein bars have little or no fat and high-calorie content is because they contain either protein or sugar as their only ingredients and then an artificial sweetener.
You need to remember that your body can only absorb so much sugar and fat at a time and then the rest has to come from somewhere else. For example, your protein consumption can be multiplied by as much as 100 times depending on what you are eating, but the calories will not be affected since these are not nutrients that your body can use. There are various important factors to be considered when choosing a protein bar, all it takes is a bit of knowledge.
- What Are GMOs?
- What is the Calorie Count of Most Protein Bars?
- Are Some Of The Additives In Protein Bars Bad?
What Are GMOs?
A genetically modified organism is an organism that has had its genetic makeup altered by means of an alteration, mutating, or interfering with the DNA of the organism. Generally, genetically modified organisms are living organisms that have had parts of their DNA altered in some manner.2
The main reason that many people object to GMOs is that they are modified and there are many distinct types of GMOs which include maize, cotton, sugar beets, paddy, tobacco, and so on. However, many experts point out that it is not the modified traits that are objectionable, but the method by which they have been introduced into the crops.
One of the main reasons why so many people object to GMOs is that the use of pesticides and fertilizers on crops has increased the quantity and the quality of the crop produced, thereby reducing the amount of pesticide and fertilizer needed to be used. With this reduction in the number of pesticides and fertilizer used, farmers and gardeners can then use more land for growing crops which in turn means there is more food to be grown.3
Additionally, when farmers do not need to use as much pesticide and fertilizer because there are fewer crops, they are left with more money in their pockets because they can then offer cheaper prices for their products. Also, many opponents argue that genetically altered crops have not had any testing to determine if they have any health risks whatsoever and therefore could potentially harm consumers in the future. This is one of the main concerns that many environmentalists have with genetically altered food; although, while there are valid points, it seems the science on this point is still unclear and scientists agree that there are too many uncertainties to state whether or not genetically altered foods pose any real threat to consumers.
Non-GMO Protein Bars
Non-GMO protein bars have gained a lot of popularity over the last few years, as more people are becoming aware and conscious of the importance of eating healthy. There are many different types of nutritional bars out there, but the non-GMO products seem to be having the most positive reception.
Non-GMO products do not use genetically modified organisms in their production process, nor do they contain ingredients from GMOs. The non-GMO products also do not have artificial colorings, as some of the products with added GMO’s do. One of the best protein bars with no GMOs has to be the organic raw food bars, which have high protein levels and no unhealthy fillers, sugars, or artificial flavors. These bars are also very convenient, as you can just mix them up and eat the bars as you would any other protein bar.
There are many benefits of eating non-GMO protein bars. One of the best reasons is that the products do not have artificial colors, as this can cause the body to become sensitive to its presence. Non-GMO products also lack artificial preservatives, which can oftentimes cause allergies, and even lead to the development of some diseases.
One of the greatest benefits of non-GMO protein bars is the fact that they are made entirely of natural ingredients. Many of the non-GMO products contain soy, and corn, which is not only unhealthy for you but can also be very harmful to our environment. In addition to these benefits, there are many other reasons why you should try and eat as many non-GMO products as possible.4
What is the Calorie Count of Most Protein Bars?
If you are into a set calorie count when eating, then there are some things about most protein bars you should be aware of before purchasing. When it comes to choosing a protein bar based on the calorie count, you have to ask yourself what you will be using it for.
If you want to gain muscle, then the majority of the bar’s ingredients are going to be good for that purpose. Some protein bars are also better for aiding in weight loss, while other protein bars are simply better for keeping the weight off. Keep in mind that protein bars are not always the best method for either losing weight or gaining muscle, though.
One thing that may make some protein bars, especially whey protein bars, better than others for keeping the weight off is the amount of fat or calories included in the product. Some flavors are better at removing fat from the body than others.
Understanding the Macronutrients in Protein Bars
Macronutrients are the main things that we need to survive, but for our body to perform its functions well, it is important that we also eat the right kinds of food. For instance, if you’re a person who works out, you would want to eat food that will give you energy and also contains nutrients your body needs. Macronutrients are the ones that make your body function well. The thing about protein bars is that they contain a lot of these kinds of nutrients, which can help a person with muscle building and also losing weight.
Protein bars are one of the best forms of taking care of your body’s nutritional needs. This kind of supplement can be eaten along with milk, yogurt, peanut butter, eggs, and many other types of food. Mixing these bars with the foods you eat can increase their effectiveness. You can also increase the amount of protein you take by taking them in the form of protein powder, shakes, and capsules. But no matter what type of supplement you take, you always need to check the label to make sure that the bars have the right amount of macro content in them.
Are Some Of The Additives In Protein Bars Bad?
Some of the main ingredients that are commonly found in protein powder are lactose, casein, corn, or fructose. One of the best types of additives that are found in protein powders is non-volatile sulfur compounds, otherwise known as VSCs.5 These are chemicals that can cause all sorts of health problems including allergies, immune system malfunction, cardiovascular problems, kidney failure, and cancer.
Nonetheless, there is a good reason why VSCs are used in protein bars, because they increase the absorption rate of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. So if you are looking to lose fat, increase your muscle mass, and get rid of that bloated feeling then you might want to think about going for something that is more natural such as whey protein.
A great example of a product that does not contain any artificial sweeteners is whey. Whey protein naturally increases your energy levels, which results in burning more fat, and more importantly, more calories.6 As mentioned earlier, many individuals are concerned with bloating; this is also one of those cases where taking VSC-free powders may be the solution. You do not have to worry about feeling bloated because there are VSC-free products out there that will eliminate bloating and make you feel great.
Types of Sweeteners Used in Protein Bars
There are different types of sweeteners that are used in protein bars. If you are looking for natural types of sweeteners then you can look for stevia, raw honey, and agave nectar, which are much better than regular sugar in protein bars. All these types of sweeteners are used for health benefits and they are not too expensive, however, if you are looking for artificial types of sweeteners then you can use Aspartame or acesulfame K which are also artificial sweeteners.
There are many health benefits associated with using these types of sweeteners in protein bars. These types of sweeteners contain calories but are considered good fats which have all the essential amino acids that our body needs. The thing with artificial sweeteners is that they are easily digested and expelled from the body when we eat, hence if you are looking for a quick fix to your weight problems then you can depend on protein bars.
You can find all types of protein bars in health stores and supermarkets, however, if you want to save money and if you want to shop around then you can search for protein supplements on the Internet that contain all different types of sweeteners. You can also shop for protein bars online as there are many online shops that sell various types of protein supplements. From there, you can choose any type of bar, with any type of ingredient you want.
Image Credits
Purdue University / 2019
Breakfast Criminals / June 29, 2020
Harvard Health / November 2018
1 “High-fructose corn syrup: Any health concerns? – Mayo Clinic.”https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/high-fructose-corn-syrup/faq-20058201 Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
2 “What are GMOs? – Purdue Agriculture – Purdue University.” https://ag.purdue.edu/GMOs/Pages/WhatareGMOs.aspx Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
3 “Science and History of GMOs and Other Food Modification … – FDA.” 22 Apr. 2020, https://www.fda.gov/food/agricultural-biotechnology/science-and-history-gmos-and-other-food-modification-processes Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
4 “Organic vs. Non-GMO: Is There a Difference? — Native Sun.” 11 Jul. 2019, https://www.nativesunjax.com/newsandevents/organic-vs-non-gmo-is-there-a-difference Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
5 “Non-volatile acidosis, Volatile acidosis, Buffers Benefits – Melcalin.”https://melcalin.com/non-volatile-acidosis-volatile-acidosis-buffers-benefits-with-buffer-supplements-melcalin-base Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
6 “Whey protein – Mayo Clinic.”https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-whey-protein/art-20363344 Accessed 18 Mar. 2021.
