Clean & Natural Protein Bars
Running out of time or not getting enough protein in your diet? Protein bars are the perfect solution in these situations. At first glance, they don’t look much different from common chocolate bars. However, they contain a higher amount of protein, so they’ll keep you full and provide the energy you need. They’re also great for diets, as they contain less sugar.
Are Protein Bars Good for You?
Yes. But, like with anything, moderation is key. When it comes to protein bars or cookies, the key factor is the ingredients—never overlook this. Choose bars with lower sugar and fat content and higher amounts of fiber and protein. Remember, protein bars aren’t a replacement for a balanced meal made from fresh ingredients, which gives your body the most. So include them as a sweet treat or a snack for on the go.
Picking the Right Protein Bar
Quality of Ingredients
As a rule of thumb, the longer the ingredients list on the label, the lower the quality likely is, as it will probably contain a lot of unnecessary additives. Make sure the ingredient list is as simple and natural as possible.
Source of Protein 💪🏻
Does the bar in your pocket boast a super high protein content? Do you know where it comes from? The source of protein is the most important factor when choosing a protein bar. A quality bar contains at least 20 g of protein per 100 g bar. If it has more, be cautious. Quantity isn’t everything… Bars like these are often made from low‑quality protein, like soy isolate, which doesn’t have the best bioavailability.
- Whey protein contains 70‑95% protein and is one of the highest quality sources of protein. It’s quickly absorbed, helps muscle recovery, and is ideal post‑workout. It’s also a natural source of BCAAs.
- Casein protein is absorbed more slowly. It contains around 70‑80% protein and provides a more sustained release into the bloodstream. What does this mean? It supplies protein to your muscles over a longer period.
- Milk protein is a mix of 80% casein and 20% whey protein. It’s easy to digest and has a high biological value. It supplies your body with all the essential amino acids in the correct ratio, which are necessary for building muscles and other tissues.
- Pea protein is one of the best plant‑based proteins and is ideal for vegans or those with lactose intolerance or cow’s milk allergies. It’s rich in fiber and the amino acid leucine, which the body can’t produce itself, making it essential for stimulating muscle growth and recovery.
Natural Sweetener and No Artificial Flavours 🌱
Many protein bars are "enhanced" with artificial flavors to boost taste. Try to find bars without such unnecessary additives. And when we say unnecessary, we mean it. Quality ingredients like fruits and nuts provide a much better flavour and also deliver important nutrients to your body. The same goes for sweeteners. Our protein bars are sweetened only with natural stevia, which is 200–300× sweeter than sugar, doesn’t affect blood sugar levels, and is generally considered a premium natural sweetener.
Delicious Taste and Texture
If you’ve given up on protein bars because of their sticky texture that clings to the roof of your mouth, or the aftertaste of low‑quality protein, try something different with Vilgain. We guarantee an authentic taste without any aftertaste and a choice of juicy, creamy, or crunchy textures.
When to Eat Protein Bars?
- Before training, to give your body the energy it needs.
- After training, when your muscles have been working hard. A protein bar can help with quicker recovery and provide the amino acids necessary for the synthesis of new muscle proteins. Also, it replenishes your energy.
- As a snack anytime during the day. If you’re in a rush and need something to fill you up without reaching for unhealthy snacks loaded with refined sugar, a protein bar with natural ingredients is the perfect choice.
- As an afternoon dessert, protein bars can be a quick and nutritious treat. Though they don’t match a homemade cake, if you need something fast and nutrient‑rich, grab a bar.
- For breakfast when you’re really in a hurry. We all know the feeling—hitting snooze too many times and then running out of time to prepare a balanced breakfast. That’s when it’s handy to have a favorite protein bar in your drawer, along with some fruit. Just don’t rely on it every day, and try preparing some super simple overnight oats ahead of time during busy periods.
- When losing weight, a protein bar will be your ally. It’s a sweet snack that provides protein without a sugar overload. Plus, it keeps you fuller for longer, helping to prevent overeating.
- When building muscle, you want to get as much protein as possible in your diet. And having a protein‑packed sweet snack? That’s a win‑win!
- For trips or travel, don’t forget to pack one. Imagine you’re heading on vacation, you run out of sandwiches, and you have no food left. You definitely don’t want to be in that situation, and buying overpriced, nutrition‑poor food at a gas station is even worse. A protein bar of your choice solves this problem! And you’ll also appreciate it on a hike, where it serves as a light and great source of energy and protein.
Suitable for Pregnant Women and Children?
Protein bars are suitable for anyone lacking protein in their diet. For pregnant women, it’s important to consider the ingredients and choose bars with natural sweeteners and flavours. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor. For children, the focus should be on a diverse and balanced diet, and it’s important to monitor their daily protein intake to ensure they don’t exceed the recommended amount.
Still Not Sure? Ask Your Nutritionist
We all have different nutritional needs, so it’s always best to consult with your nutritionist about the recommended amount of protein and the best sources. If you have food allergies, intolerances, or other health issues, it’s also advisable to consult your doctor.