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The Effects of Protein Bars

Protein bars are a dietary supplement commonly used by body builders and athletes. Considered to be a crucial time-saving and nutritional aid by athletes who lead busy lives, protein bars allow you to receive necessary nutrients in a convenient and effective manner. The various types of protein bars deliver key nutrients that improve your overall health and physical performance.

  1. Muscle Growth and Fat Loss

    • Whey protein, the key ingredient in many leading protein bars, has been shown to increase lean muscle mass and aid in losing weight, particularly in terms of fat loss. Consume protein bars in conjunction with intense physical training to build lean muscle mass "at much higher rates," according to Price Plow. Bars with whey protein, rather than whey protein isolate, are found to be particularly helpful in adding lean muscle mass.

    Recovery and Energy

    • In addition to having a high protein content, most protein bars also incorporate key nutrients including vitamins, fats, carbohydrates and minerals that aid the body in muscle recovery and overall energy maintenance. According to Think Muscle, protein bars with a high protein content and moderate to high content of carbohydrates are ideal for athletes who are looking to specifically support their energy levels. As for muscle recovery, consuming protein bars immediately after intense workouts allows your muscle tissue to store carbohydrates (glycogen), making for an enhanced recovery.

    Negative Side Effects

    • Some individuals experience minor side effects when eating protein bars. According to Bodybuilding For You, consuming too much whey protein could potentially cause damage to your liver. There is debate about this, however, as Price Plow states that damage to your liver from protein bars is a "common misconception." A high-protein diet does raise the nitrogen levels in your body, so it is important that you drink plenty of water while eating protein bars on a regular basis. Individuals who are lactose intolerant may benefit from sticking to protein bars made with whey protein isolate, which contains less than one percent lactose, as opposed to the five to six percent that whey protein concentrate contains.

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