Store-Bought Protein Bars
What really is in your protein bar? Unfortunately, many commercial protein bars are made with highly processed ingredients that can be triggering or potentially harmful to your health journey. Depending on the protein bar you choose, you may notice ingredients such as: maltodextrin soluble corn fibre, maltitol syrup, sugar, tapioca starch, artificial colors (or dyes), and other potentially harmful ingredients. Some protein bars, on the other hand, DO contain beneficial, wholesome ingredients. If you are looking for a few brands that are AH Phase 2 or compliant, try some of Chef Kenzie’s favorites…
Not sure if your favorite protein bar contains hidden sugars? Check out our “45 Ways to say Sugar” infographic below.
Homemade Protein Bites
Rather than opting for expensive (often highly-processed) store-bought protein bars – why not try making your own with your favorite wholesome ingredients? Chef Kenzie’s recipe below features hazelnut butter, cashew butter, dark chocolate, collagen protein powder, and vanilla – but the possibilities for ingredient combinations are endless! Try the following variations, or experiment with your own…
- Replace vanilla extract with orange zest, orange extract, almond extract, or another food grade extract/essential oil of your choice.
- Replace cashew and hazelnut butter with peanut butter, almond butter, or pumpkin seed butter.
- Add about 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter (this will increase the fat content per serving).
- Rather than making protein bites, make a protein spread (for Waffles, Pancakes, or to mix into yogurt parfaits) by replacing 1 ounce of dark chocolate with an additional 2 tbsp of nut butter.
- Add freeze-dried fruits (or dried fruit) to the batter.
What flavors will you try? Comment your favorite protein bite combination below or share a photo of your bites in our Facebook Group – we always love to see what you’ve been making!
Choosing A Protein Powder for your Protein Bites
Although we don’t recommend consuming protein powder on a daily basis, it can sometimes be beneficial to increase your total protein intake. When choosing a protein powder, be sure to look for added sugars and potentially triggering ingredients (such as artificial sugars). Experiment with a few types and pay special attention to how your body is feeling.
Collagen Protein
- We like to use collagen protein powder due to its neutral flavor and health benefits.
- Works well in both cooked and raw preparations.
- Collagen protein is NOT vegan/vegetarian-friendly (the protein comes from the bones of animals).
- Neutral flavored.
Whey Protein
- Whey protein is one of the most bioavailable protein powder types (meaning our body can utilize the protein efficiently and effectively).
- Works well in both cooked and raw preparations.
- Whey protein is milk-based protein (may not appropriate for those who are dairy-free).
- Neutral flavored.
Pea Protein Protein
- A complete vegetarian protein (contains all essential amino acids).
- Similar muscular gain results as whey protein.
- Has a gritty texture and a strong “pea” flavor.
