In today's world, more and more people are choosing sugar-free protein bars. These products of the food industry are specially designed for athletes who are serious about increasing muscle mass and strictly adhere to one of the nutrition systems. Such bars can solve a number of problems: satisfy hunger and help lose a few extra pounds.
The composition of the product
Like any kind of sports nutrition, bars contain easily digestible proteins. And in order to somehow diversify the taste of the product, other components are added to it, for example, chocolate and sweeteners.
Manufacturers use collagen and gelatin to preserve the shape and structure of the product as the basis for the protein bar. Of course, the effectiveness of such components for the body is several times lower than that of high-quality types of protein (whey and egg). Protein bars without sugar and carbohydrates are much healthier than other dietary options.
Various additives and sweeteners can worsen the condition of the teeth, and their constant use will negatively affect digestion.
Main types
So that a person can choose the most suitable product for himself, he needs to carefully study the existing types of protein bars. There are such basic types:
- Cereals - great for those who want to lose weight. Their main difference is the minimal calorie content and almost complete absence of sugar.
- Bars with carnitine - help burn excess fat and do not bring extra calories.
- High Protein - This product is used to gain muscle mass. Experts recommend using them before and after training.
- High-carb - in such products contain the largest amount of carbohydrates. Perfect for workouts that involve high energy costs.
Sugar-free protein bars should be consistent with the diet a person uses to lose weight or gain muscle.
How to choose a bar
Before buying a large batch of product, it is necessary to determine the main selection criteria:
- the goal that a person pursues (get rid of extra pounds, gain muscle mass, have a tasty and healthy snack, increase the amount of energy before training);
- what components are contained in the product (amount of sugar, carbohydrate proteins and other additives);
- what place does the bar take in the rating (do experts recommend it, what kind of reviews do people leave);
- cost of goods. Each manufacturer independently determines the price of their products. So bars of the same composition can have different costs.
Do not pay special attention to the brand. It is better to choose a protein bar without sugar, which will fully satisfy the needs in the composition and will bring maximum benefits.
Product benefits
Many novice athletes are convinced that the benefits of protein bars are in their ability to quench their appetite. However, this is not so; they contain vitamins and minerals that have a beneficial effect on the health of the body.
Useful product features:
- The main component of the bars is protein, which helps to build muscle. Therefore, they should be consumed by those who want to build muscle.
- Since carbohydrates are present in it, the bar is able to provide the body with enough energy. This is true for people who are actively engaged in the gym.
- It contains vitamins and minerals that provide the body with the necessary substances. However, this can only be asserted with certainty if the label says about their presence.
- Bars are easy to use. They do not need to be pre-cooked or heated, just remove the packaging and the product is ready for use.
Experts are sure that protein bars should not be given such importance. Since the composition of some of them can cause serious damage to the body.
Product harm
Some doctors claim that protein bars can do more harm to the body. They draw the attention of athletes to such shortcomings:
- The use of such a product can lead to weight gain. The bar contains a large amount of carbohydrates (sugar). Therefore, the caloric content of 100 g is 400 kcal. If you eat this product instead of the main meal, then it does no harm. However, if you eat 2-3 pieces daily, then a person can significantly gain weight. And if 100 g contains 200 kcal, then such a bar will not be able to restore the spent amount of energy.
- Some bars are free of vitamins and minerals. Therefore, the benefit of such a product is 0.
If a person knows about the advantages and disadvantages of the product, in this case, he independently decides to use it or not.
Popular Bars
Having studied the main characteristics of the product, you can begin to consider the brands of products. We made a small selection based on reviews and ratings. To your attention the top protein bars without sugar.
- Quest Protein Bar is one of the most famous products from the popular brand. A distinctive feature is a well-balanced composition with a complete lack of sugar (substitutes are used for its manufacture). It also contains the optimal amount of protein. It can be consumed after exercise or between main meals. The composition of this product includes: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, fiber, vitamins A, C.
- ISS Research: OhYeah! - these bars have won their consumers thanks to quality components and excellent taste. It is used by people leading an active lifestyle. It includes: soy protein isolate, whey protein, casein, cocoa butter, gelatin, chocolate icing.
- Promax Bars - the products of this company are able to solve a variety of problems. For example, help in gaining muscle mass, get rid of extra pounds, restore the spent energy balance. The strength of this product was the ratio of price, components and quality.
- Supreme Protein: Carb Conscious - made by a famous brand. The main advantage is good ingredients (high-quality carbohydrates and pure protein). Bars also have vitamins and minerals in their composition.
The list of the best sugar-free protein bars was compiled by leading athletes who have already achieved their goals and are ready to share their experiences with others.
Making bars at home
To make homemade protein bars, just mix the following ingredients:
- cereals - the "right" carbohydrates;
- berries and fruits - sources of vitamins and minerals;
- honey - a natural sweetener;
- nuts and dried fruits.
The resulting mass is passed through a meat grinder and spread on a baking sheet in the form of rectangles. Put in a well-heated oven and dry until tender.
Protein-free sugar-free bars can satisfy your hunger, help you gain muscle mass and lose extra pounds. However, even such a useful product should not be carried away.