Protein bars are a popular snack among endurance athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike. They are a convenient option to provide that extra boost of protein needed to support your fitness goals. Things can get a little confusing when there are so many protein options out there; it’s not just about which bar you choose, but also when and how often you should eat them. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO EAT PROTEIN BARS? The most beneficial time to eat your protein bar is ideally within 30-60 minutes post workout. After your workout, it will help replenish energy stores and boost the muscle recovery and growth process. This is known as the ‘anabolic window’ and is thought to be the optimum time to get the most from your supplement. If you miss this window, don’t fret, you’ll still get the benefits in terms of recovery. The basic recommendation is to consume 10-20g of protein post workout, which is why our Protein Bar is the perfect on-the-go solution, as each 64g pack contains 20g of protein, and less than 3g of sugar. Protein bars are also great as a pre-workout snack. You should eat your protein bar one to two hours prior – this will ensure that you have metabolised everything your body needs, and you can workout without having just eaten. It is generally recommended that if you are going more than 4 hours between meals, eating a snack will help to sustain your energy levels. If you have a protein intake goal in mind, a protein bar is a great way to get a ‘protein top up’ to help reach this. In summary, a protein bar after your workout will help you get the best out of your supplementation but has great benefits for pre-workout and as a snack during the day. WHO SHOULD EAT PROTEIN BARS? For people looking to build muscle, protein bars are an excellent addition to their diet. But it’s not just for weightlifters! Endurance athletes can also benefit from eating protein bars. For example, after a long run protein can help your muscles rebuild and repair with more efficiency. Eating one before your run can give you a healthy boost of energy, especially if it’s high in carbohydrates. A good aim is to eat 20-30g protein every 3-4 hours to maximise muscle growth and repair. Outside of those who are active, protein bars can be beneficial to just about anyone as high protein snack, to help increase your daily protein intake as this can be difficult day to day during a busy lifestyle. CAN YOU HAVE A PROTEIN BAR WITH OTHER SUPPLEMENTS? You can mix and match your protein supplementation depending on your needs. You may opt for a protein bar pre workout so that you don’t have a shake sloshing around your tummy, but a post workout protein powder will work just fine. You can also opt for our vegan alternative protein bar, the Protein20 or Rego powders which contain an optimum ratio of carbohydrates and protein to help drive fast recovery. Written By Jessica Redman - Head Coach and Founder of Work That, Trustee at CIMSPA Jessica founded an online personal training platform called ‘Work That’ and was previously Co-founder of ‘GRL GYM’. She is currently on the CIMSPA board where she is aiming to help drive forward knowledge about the benefits exercise has on mental health. Jess believes in using exercise to help people feel good, relive pain and enjoy an active lifestyle.
