Are Protein Bars Actually Good for You Without Working Out?

Protein bars made their first appearance back in the late 1980s, but they have been experiencing a surge in popularity only recently. This might have had something to do with people becoming more health-conscious. Along with trying out various types of workout, consumers are falling in love with food items that help them achieve their health goals—or are marketed to do so. 

For the longest time, protein bars have been marketed in conflicting and confusing ways. Some proclaim these bars to be the perfect skinny food, while others declare them to be the ultimate dude-bro snack. To expound on the later, some even believe that these bars are essential only for those who sweat it out during workouts. 

In this article, we’ll be setting the records straight regarding protein bars for once and for all. 

No Two Protein Bars are the Same 

Before anything else, it’s worth pointing out that all protein bars are created differently. Some are made with animal proteins while some are completely vegan. Some keep the ingredient count to a minimum, while some are loaded with nutrient-rich foods and additives. 

These products heavily vary, but they have two things in common. First is that they contain protein, and the next is that they are celebrated as the perfect post-workout snack. 

However, this leads to a popular question: is it okay to eat protein bars even if you didn’t work out? 

The Truth About Protein Bars and their Calorie Content 

People usually hesitate about picking up a protein bar without a workout because of its calorie content. Some take a quick look at the label and start panicking after learning the calorie count is somewhere around 200. They think that they should only eat snacks like this if they will burn the same number of calories (or more). 

The truth of the matter is that other healthy snacks contain the same amount of calories, such as avocado toast, pretzels with hummus, and yogurt topped with berries and granola. All of these snacks are healthy for you despite the calories that they have. 

This is because the calories per se are not the problem. 

You need them to live each day and go about your daily tasks—even the simple actions of sitting and breathing require calories. On top of that, nutritionists actually recommend snacks containing around 200 calories. 

Low-calorie snacks may seem like the healthier choice, but they do not provide you with enough energy to sustain you until your next meal. 

To sum it all up: eating protein bars is alright, regardless of whether you’re working out or not!

You Need Protein for Your Body’s Daily Functions 

Protein bars are not only for those who are building muscle. 

This is because protein supports not only muscle building but also your body’s daily functions. On top of that, it makes your brain, immune systems, and other parts work much more efficiently. This macronutrient is also helpful in growing your hair and nails and maintaining healthy skin.  

Additionally, it helps keep you full by supplying exactly what your body needs: fats, proteins, carbs, and other nutrients. 

Protein bars are often marketed and presented as a post-workout snack. However, the popular belief that protein bars are a taboo for someone who doesn’t work out isn’t a reliable one. In reality, these bars have all the right nutrients that your body needs to get through everything you need to do for the day while keeping it nourished. 

Ultimately, they may prove to be a healthier option than low-protein snacks regardless of your activity. For this reason, it’s best to read the label of your favorite protein bar first and give them a chance before you skip over them in the snack aisle. 

At Proteinbar.com, we exist to help sort through the marketing noise and reveal what science says about the ingredients hiding in your favorite nutrition bars. If you want to nibble on more insightful articles to find the best protein bar for your diet, visit our website regularly!