OT: Protein Bars

[ThePennsyOracle]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

 

[ClarkstonMark]

I'd say if you want low cal no sugar protein, then make a shake instead of a bar. I use Isopure Zero carb, 10-15 flavors available.
Amazon product ASIN B000E95HP0
or just eat a chicken breast, they are cheap, but boring

Would like to know if there are any good bars though.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

I'd say if you want low cal no sugar protein, then make a shake instead of a bar. I use Isopure Zero carb, 10-15 flavors available.

View embedded media

or just eat a chicken breast, they are cheap, but boring

Would like to know if there are any good bars though.

Thanks--I'm looking for something on the go that I can stuff into my pocket, laptop bag, etc.

Smoothies/shakes are great at home, but not so much for being quick & on the go. I've also started eating Fage Total (plain) Greek Yogurt--the stuff is fantastic, and the 2% variety actually has the most protein.

 

[ClarkstonMark]

Thanks--I'm looking for something on the go that I can stuff into my pocket, laptop bag, etc.

Smoothies/shakes are great at home, but not so much for being quick & on the go. I've also started eating Fage Total (plain) Greek Yogurt--the stuff is fantastic, and the 2% variety actually has the most protein.

Yep I know what you mean. Convenience of a bar. I'm looking forward to some more responses as I can't stand the Pure Protein and Quest bars lol.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Yep I know what you mean. Convenience of a bar. I'm looking forward to some more responses as I can't stand the Pure Protein and Quest bars lol.

What flavors have you tried so far?

I've had Apple Pie & Cookies/Cream Pure Protein--neither of which were bad. Tried the Quest Smores flavor last night and came away less than impressed. Didn't mind the flavor I guess, but to call it Smores is embarrassing.

As a side note, I've also discovered Halo Top ice cream for a healthy, nutritious treat with substantial protein. 240 or 280cal/pint and low in sugars!

 

[1987Psudcoordinator]

Anything that's a fast acting carbohydrate such as a protein bar or a banana is vital for post workout. These simple carbs (sugars) help replenish your glycogen levels which you pretty much depleted during your strength training workout. Also, these put your body at a more anabolic state after workout.
Everyone things foods with a lot of sugar in them are bad, but immediately after a workout they can be very beneficial.

 

[CentexLion]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

TPO,

I'm pretty much in the same area as you. Been hammering bike rides to work (13.5 miles each way), and then doing a lite jog at lunch for 3-5 miles. In 8 weeks, have gone from 215 to 190 and feel great. Add in Yoga 2-3 nights a week, and this really has helped me with my flexibility and injury protection (I just discovered Yoga last November and wish I had been doing it forever).

I spent an hour at the grocery store looking at every protein bar out there just this past weekend, and bought 2 dozen Caveman bars. As you said, for the convenience. 130-210 calories. 8-12g sugar. Very low sodium. Total Carbs around 18g with 3g dietary fiber. Not bad tasting but if I carry them with me on long weekend rides, they get quite messy. Very interested in hearing everyones opinion on this

 

[1987Psudcoordinator]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

Protein smoothies!
Ice, skim milk, blue berries, strawberries, a banana, and one scoop whey Protein in a blender.
Tastes great and high in protein and carbs!

 

[Psychedelic_MackDaddy]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

NATURAL. PEANUT. BUTTER.
EGGS

 

[1987Psudcoordinator]

TPO,

I'm pretty much in the same area as you. Been hammering bike rides to work (13.5 miles each way), and then doing a lite jog at lunch for 3-5 miles. In 8 weeks, have gone from 215 to 190 and feel great. Add in Yoga 2-3 nights a week, and this really has helped me with my flexibility and injury protection (I just discovered Yoga last November and wish I had been doing it forever).

I spent an hour at the grocery store looking at every protein bar out there just this past weekend, and bought 2 dozen Caveman bars. As you said, for the convenience. 130-210 calories. 8-12g sugar. Very low sodium. Total Carbs around 18g with 3g dietary fiber. Not bad tasting but if I carry them with me on long weekend rides, they get quite messy. Very interested in hearing everyones opinion on this

Congratulating on losing weight and entering a healthy lifestyle!
Be careful not to overdue it!

 

[LionJim]

Be sure to try to get no more than 10 calories per gram of protein. Premier Protein bars are this sort and seem to be cheaper than most.

 

[Psychedelic_MackDaddy]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

Much better.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

TPO,

I'm pretty much in the same area as you. Been hammering bike rides to work (13.5 miles each way), and then doing a lite jog at lunch for 3-5 miles. In 8 weeks, have gone from 215 to 190 and feel great. Add in Yoga 2-3 nights a week, and this really has helped me with my flexibility and injury protection (I just discovered Yoga last November and wish I had been doing it forever).

I spent an hour at the grocery store looking at every protein bar out there just this past weekend, and bought 2 dozen Caveman bars. As you said, for the convenience. 130-210 calories. 8-12g sugar. Very low sodium. Total Carbs around 18g with 3g dietary fiber. Not bad tasting but if I carry them with me on long weekend rides, they get quite messy. Very interested in hearing everyones opinion on this

Congrats on the hard work & success! I've lost a ton of weight and am adjusting to a new life and routine. It's an entirely new area for me. I'm also investigating yoga because my kinesthetic awareness is way off due to changes in my body (all good, thankfully).

I was eating too few calories for a while and was feeling crappy, so I've tried to gradually increase caloric intake over the past couple of weeks. So far, I'm feeling much better.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Be sure to try to get no more than 10 calories per gram of protein. Premier Protein bars are this sort and seem to be cheaper than most.

Thanks Jim--I'll keep an eye out for those. You're right that some of these bars are extremely expensive.

 

[Class of 67]

For those who can intake at home after a workout, I recommend a Vitamix blender for making smoothies tailored to your wants/needs. One of my favorites is soy milk/skim milk, banana, chocolate syrup, peanut butter, chia seeds/wheat germ and ice. At other times I focus on the fruit and veggie varieties. If a Vitamix rep is ever demo-ing at your local Costco, watch her/him and sample. You'll be amazed at what this machine can do to improve your nutrition.

 

[elvis63]

Carbs aren't an issue unless you are following a specific diet for a specific purpose. I know some competitive lifters and bodybuilders that get plenty of carbs . It all depends on your plan.

 

[elvis63]

Be sure to try to get no more than 10 calories per gram of protein. Premier Protein bars are this sort and seem to be cheaper than most.

Why would you say that ? Id never buy a bar with just 10 g of protein.

 

[ClarkstonMark]

Why would you say that ? Id never buy a bar with just 10 g of protein.

He did not say to buy a bar with only 10g of protein. He said 10 cal or less per gram of protein. So for a bar with 30g Protein, you want it under 300 cal.

 

[LionJim]

Why would you say that ? Id never buy a bar with just 10 g of protein.

When I get a bar, they have either 20 or 30 grams of protein, meaning I'll pack on either 200 or 300 calories, respectively. There are some bars with 30 grams of protein and like 450 calories.

 

[hlstone]

http://www.godairyfree.org/recipes/raw-superfood-energy-bars

I make these for my kid for her long field hockey and Lax tourneys, I enjoy them as well.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Carbs aren't an issue unless you are following a specific diet for a specific purpose. I know some competitive lifters and bodybuilders that get plenty of carbs . It all depends on your plan.

I'm not necessarily wary about carbs--for a variety of reasons, I don't want a ton of processed/artificial ingredients with added sugar.

 

[LionJim]

Martin's 100% Whole Wheat Potato Bread. Eighty calories and 6 grams protein per slice.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

This is the bread I eat. Eighty calories and 6 grams protein per slice.

Can't see the photo, but I've been doing Ezekiel 4:9 Flax--it's really good stuff.

Obviously I know that these protein bars are highly processed. But, my overall goal is to limit processed foods that have added sugars. I didn't lose weight with a low carb or Atkins-style diet, but I limited processed foods/refined carbohydrates/added sugars. I still ate fruits and natural sweeteners.

 

[hlstone]

http://dailyburn.com/life/recipes/homemade-protein-bar-recipes/

I also made #'s 2,4.7 and 8. They all were easy to make and tasted good. #4 was the most difficult recipe.

 

[PSU_Chicago]

Try Muscle Pharm. low sugar, hi protein and meet your calorie need. Taste much better than Quest Bars

 

[elvis63]

Gotcha . It's important to read labels . To me I just buy whatever because it's better than say a candy bar. I don't stress over calories much since my weight holds pretty steady .

 

[elvis63]

http://www.bestbarever.com/products/meadows-bar-chocolate-coconut-6-bars-box-1

I know this fellow, he's an IFBB pro and a nutritional consultant . They're very high quality .

 

[bwifan]

Can't see the photo, but I've been doing Ezekiel 4:9 Flax--it's really good stuff.

Obviously I know that these protein bars are highly processed. But, my overall goal is to limit processed foods that have added sugars. I didn't lose weight with a low carb or Atkins-style diet, but I limited processed foods/refined carbohydrates/added sugars. I still ate fruits and natural sweeteners.

I have been eating Ezekiel bread for about 5 years. Friend is a nutritionist and put me on a life style change of eliminating processed foods about 5 years ago. Mainly a high protein diet with nuts/veggies/fruits. Lost 35 pounds in the first month with eating regular meals and no dieting. Almost back to my high school weight of 168 pounds. Run 3-5 miles everyday and surf regularly. She told me I would now see what a drug addict feels like as my body would crave sugar for the first 2 weeks... and boy was she correct! Now I don't miss sugar at all and I eat organic/non-gmo and have eliminated processed foods. My cholesterol dropped in a huge way. Life is good.

 

[LionJim]

Awesome.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

I have been eating Ezekiel break for about 5 years. Friend is a nutritionist and put me on a life style change of eliminating processed foods. Mainly a high protein diet with nuts/veggies/fruits. Lost 35 pounds in 1 month with eating regular meals and no dieting. Almost back to my high school weight of 168 pounds. Run 3-5 miles everyday and surf regularly. She told me I would now see what a drug addict feels like as my body would crave sugar for the first 2 weeks... and boy was she correct! Now I don't miss sugar at all and I eat organic/non-gmo and have eliminated processed foods. My cholesterol dropped in a huge way. Life is good.

I hear you--thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on your success. Ezekiel is fantastic--I also eat their cereal almost everyday and have tried their English muffins. The wraps are great but are a bitch to get out of the package without breaking, so I've stopped buying them.

I don't want to get too far into my story, but let's just say that I've lost a lot of weight in 10 months through diet & exercise. I exercise 4-5 days per week (averaging a bit over 20 miles per week). I'm far below my weight when I graduated high school.......in fact I've been told I've gone too far.

Went from 7 different prescriptions including the unholy trinity to zero. Everything is normal.

I didn't have cravings during my journey, to tell you the truth. Now is the hardest part. I'm where I need to be and trying to figure out what normal truly is/feels like. I've been told I need to eat more. The cravings I'm having now are for things I never did before--ice cream, brownies, etc (I got heavy on bread, fried food and other refined carbs). No one can tell me what's normal, because everyone's "normal" is different. It's all about finding something that works, and adapting if what you're doing isn't working.

It's very hard to force myself to eat more knowing it's OK to have those things (I didn't throughout my journey) on occasion. I knew what I was doing before, I just didn't care. Now, I care deeply--not afraid of "relapse" at all, but there are other things that I need to come to grips with.

Life has changed drastically in a short amount of time, and I vastly underestimated the mental side of things with maintenance. I thought once I got here, it would be all rainbows & unicorns--it's not at all. For all intents & purposes, I've lost more weight through what I've done than some gastric bypass patients. I'm far healthier from a physical standpoint, but I need to be patient with the other stuff.

 

[bwifan]

I hear you--thanks for sharing your story and congratulations on your success. Ezekiel is fantastic--I also eat their cereal almost everyday and have tried their English muffins. The wraps are great but are a bitch to get out of the package without breaking, so I've stopped buying them.

I don't want to get too far into my story, but let's just say that I've lost a lot of weight in 10 months through diet & exercise. I exercise 4-5 days per week (averaging a bit over 20 miles per week). I'm far below my weight when I graduated high school.......in fact I've been told I've gone too far.

Went from 7 different prescriptions including the unholy trinity to zero. Everything is normal.

I didn't have cravings during my journey, to tell you the truth. Now is the hardest part. I'm where I need to be and trying to figure out what normal truly is/feels like. I've been told I need to eat more. The cravings I'm having now are for things I never did before--ice cream, brownies, etc (I got heavy on bread, fried food and other refined carbs). No one can tell me what's normal, because everyone's "normal" is different. It's all about finding something that works, and adapting if what you're doing isn't working.

It's very hard to force myself to eat more knowing it's OK to have those things (I didn't throughout my journey) on occasion. I knew what I was doing before, I just didn't care. Now, I care deeply--not afraid of "relapse" at all, but there are other things that I need to come to grips with.

Life has changed drastically in a short amount of time, and I vastly underestimated the mental side of things with maintenance. I thought once I got here, it would be all rainbows & unicorns--it's not at all. For all intents & purposes, I've lost more weight through what I've done than some gastric bypass patients. I'm far healthier from a physical standpoint, but I need to be patient with the other stuff.

Fantastic! Don't sweat it too much. I kinda had the same dilemma. I just looked at it as I know I am eating the right/good foods now. I don't sweat eating and worry about amounts etc. anymore. I eat my main meals and snack on almonds/nuts/veggies etc and know it's all good healthy food and it's ok to eat more of it. I think if you monitor your weight and food intake, you will know when you come to a good balance.

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Fantastic! Don't sweat it too much. I kinda had the same dilemma. I just looked at it as I know I am eating the right/good foods now. I don't sweat eating and worry about amounts etc. anymore. I eat my main meals and snack on almonds/nuts/veggies etc and know it's all good healthy food and it's ok to eat more of it. I think if you monitor your weight and food intake, you will know when you come to a good balance.

Easier said than done! It's been a process, and I can't push it.

It's partly why I'm a bit prickly and like to stir things up on here occasionally. BWI is my outlet, my therapist, my comedic relief.

 

[skilion]

Funny how parts of this thread are now about real food vs. bars etc.

To answer the OP's question - I have found a bar that I like - no soy protein - high protein bar low carbs - made by a company in Oakmont PA NUGo nutrition. You may want to try these.

Additionally, second on the IsoPure from Nature's best and there is also a brand called Naked - the issue with Naked is it is just protein powder so you will need to flavor it.

Enjoy!

 

[ThePennsyOracle]

Funny how parts of this thread are now about real food vs. bars etc.

To answer the OP's question - I have found a bar that I like - no soy protein - high protein bar low carbs - made by a company in Oakmont PA NUGo nutrition. You may want to try these.

Additionally, second on the IsoPure from Nature's best and there is also a brand called Naked - the issue with Naked is it is just protein powder so you will need to flavor it.

Enjoy!

Thanks for the NUGo tip--many of those look fantastic.

 

[asbury park]

You have had marginal advise on this so far. I have a guy working for me that is constantly searching for the best in class products on the market. By far, the two best out the are Oatmega and Rise bars.

Things we look for are no artificial bs ingredients, high quality protein, carbs and fats. Taste is the other important factor. It has to taste good in order for people to make it a part of their daily routine. With these bars we sometimes have to keep people from eating too many.

 

[bwifan]

Funny how parts of this thread are now about real food vs. bars etc.

To answer the OP's question - I have found a bar that I like - no soy protein - high protein bar low carbs - made by a company in Oakmont PA NUGo nutrition. You may want to try these.

Additionally, second on the IsoPure from Nature's best and there is also a brand called Naked - the issue with Naked is it is just protein powder so you will need to flavor it.

Enjoy!

FYI... I eat Kind bars and they taste and work well for me. The Kind bar I have today has 5g of sugar with 7g of fiber and 6g of protein. Gluten free/non gmo/low glycemic/no sugar alcohols 0g trans fat, dairy free and low sodium.

 

[ericstratton-rushchairman]

Best book/program I have come across is...

Amazon product ASIN 1493707485
Clean protein is always best. For me I cut out highly processed foods and foods high in sugar. Whole foods and lots of fiber. For "protein bars" I use these...

http://www.julianbakery.com/

 

[mOOse_44]

I thought this would be as good of a place as any to see what the collective BWI wisdom is regarding protein bars.

I will shortly be shifting from a cardio-based workout regimen for weight loss to one of mostly strength training for weight maintenance/adding lean muscle mass. Basically, I need to eat more calories per day. My hope is to not use these as meal replacement, rather before (or after) a workout and for a snack.

After trying a sampling of Pure Protein, Quest and other varieties, they all taste pretty much the same. I'm looking for one that is low in sugar and in the 150-250cal range. Many of the Cliff bars are absolutely loaded with sugar.

This is an entirely new area for me....so is one really better than the other, or is it truly all about the same? Any other thoughts are appreciated.

I've read research lately that downplays any usefulness of protein supplements. I'm pretty much convinced adult human beings get all the protein they can use from three servings of 7g's a day. All the rest of these expensive supplements we have been buying for years just end up being flushed down the toilet with our multi vitamins...

Also - I remember reading about how the jury is still out on non animal based proteins. They are not "complete" proteins (lacking certain amino acids). I agree with Felli on this one, packs of tuna and salmon is my choice for clean protein.

 

[LionJim]

I've read research lately that downplays any usefullness of protein supplements. I'm pretty much convinced adult human beings get all the protein they can use from three servings of 7g's a day. All the rest of these expensive supplements we have been buying for years just end up being flushed down the toilet with our multi vitamins...

Okay, can you link something along these lines? TIA.

 

[asbury park]

I've read research lately that downplays any usefullness of protein supplements. I'm pretty much convinced adult human beings get all the protein they can use from three servings of 7g's a day. All the rest of these expensive supplements we have been buying for years just end up being flushed down the toilet with our multi vitamins...

21 grams or protein per day? I'd quit what you are reading immediately. The case for higher levels of protein ingestion for individuals who train at high intensities has been closed for a long time.