Low Carb Protein Bars

The key to maintaining optimal health and fitness is maintaining a balance of quality nutrition, supplementation and exercise. Most health and fitness experts recommend the consumption of five to seven small meals a day to increase nutrient absorption, boost metabolism and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Integrating meal replacement bars that are low in carbohydrates and high in protein offers a quick, convenient way to improve overall nutrition and provide nutrients the body needs to improve health and physical performance.

Protein bars usually contain protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, and additional functional ingredients. Though protein is commonly associated with muscle building, it has a number of other uses in the body. It is used as structural material for cells and tissues, keratin of skin and elastin of connective tissue to name a few. Diets low in carbohydrates are shown to enhance weight loss, increase good cholesterol (HDL) and decrease triglycerides, contributing to an overall decrease in the risk of heart disease.

Tasty Options

Traditionally, meal replacement bars have been consumed because they are a convenient alternative to a traditional meal, not because they were remotely appetizing. With the increasing popularity of high protein, low-carb diets, there are now a number of bars on the market that more closely resemble a candy bar in taste but have the same nutritional content of the healthy, not-so-tasty bars of the past.

Based on taste surveys, the most popular flavors for low-carb protein bars are caramel chocolate peanut, caramel peanut butter, cookies n' cream and chocolate chip. The lowest carb content ranges from thirteen to 20 carbs per bar and there is a high selection of bars offering a one to one protein to carb ratio.