Protein bars are a great source of energy when needed. However, when is the best time to consume them during a day? Should you eat protein bars in the morning, at lunch, dinner or are protein bars a meal replacement? Read on and learn about protein bars.

When to Eat Protein Bars

1.   Before Workout

Having a meal before working out is not recommended, as it will often make you feel sluggish and cramped. However, whenever you need some energy and an instant boost of nutrients, you can eat a protein bar approximately about 45 minutes before starting to work out. Protein bars are always a healthy option compared to junk food or to not eating at all before a workout.

2.   After Workout

After intense workout, your body needs nutrients to repair and build muscles. In order to maximize the workout potential, it is recommended to eat a protein-rich meal within the first 30 to 60 minutes after completing an intense session.

However, sometimes it is not possible to get a protein-rich meal. Instead of ending up eating something casually, you can choose protein bars. They can be taken along to the gym, providing you the necessry protein after a workout.

3.   At Breakfast

When to eat protein bars? The breakfast time. When in rush in the morning, getting a healthy breakfast can be a problem. Protein bars are an acceptable choice whenever you are not able to have a breakfast. Normally, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, as it provides us with energy to go through the day. Breakfast should be rich in proteins. Just a protein bar might not be enough, so try to eat some fruits as well or a shake to help you get through the morning until lunch time comes.

4.   As a Snack

If you are hungry and crave for a snack, choose protein bars as they are healthier than other snacks such as candy, cookie, cake, donuts, chips, etc. You can always take some protein bars at hand, just in case of hunger time.

5.   As a Meal Replacement

Protein bars are high in fibers, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. This makes them a great alternative when wanting a low-calorie meal instead of a regular meal, especially when eating a regular meal is not possible.

6.   In Cases of Sugar Cravings

In cases of sugar cravings, protein bars are a great option as they are sweet like candy but contain very little sugar. Protein bars are healthier too. Instead of reaching for a candy, cookie or chocolates, eat protein bars.

How to Choose Healthy Protein Bars

Now you know when to eat protein bars, but how to choose healthy protein bars? Here are some pointers for you.

• Look for the protein bars made from milk and whey. There are protein bars made from soy as well. However, a lot of people find these protein bars upsetting to their stomach. Each protein bar has at least 5 grams of protein per bar.
• Look for the protein bars containing less sugar. Protein bars, in general, are low in sugar, usually less than 8 grams per bar. However, there are protein bars in the market which contain more sugar, such as a Snickers bar or Mars bar. Every time you are looking for a healthy protein bar, look for those with very little sugar or no sugar.
• Pay attention to the carbs. Protein bars are low in carbs as well, containing less than 20 grams per bar. Low-carb protein bars are recommended while trying to lose weight. However, if you prefer a protein bar after a workout, look for those containing more carbs as carbs are important for speeding up the recovery process after a workout.
• Look for the protein bars high in riber. Protein bars are rich in fibers, containing at least 3 grams of fiber per bar. Fibers help us feel fuller for a longer period of time, preventing hunger and cravings. Fibers will also keep our digestive system healthy. They are calorie-free too.
• Look for protein bars low in calories. Women are recommended to consume protein bars containing about 140 and up to 200 calories, while men should consume protein bars containing about 170 to 300 calories. 
• Look for protein bars containing no artificial sweetener and sugar alcohols. If you want a healthy protein bar, you should choose these bars. Even though some bars might be low in calories, they are not healthy when containing these two components.
• Look for protein bars low in saturated fats and free from trans fats. Healthy protein bars should contain healthy fats. Trans fats should be excluded from your diet as these are processed fats which are very unhealthy. This tip is very essential besides when to eat protein bars.
• Look for protein bars containing fewer ingredients. The fewer ingredients a protein bar has, the healthier it is. Always choose protein bars which are rich in natural ingredients.

How to Make Protein Bars at Home

Are you looking for healthy protein bars made at home? If yes, continue reading this recipe of Blueberry Protein Bars. These protein bars made at home are gluten-free, require no baking and are naturally sweetened.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of almond butter
• 1 + ½ cup of pure rolled oats
• ½ cup of dried blueberries
• ½ cup of pistachios
• ⅓ cup of pepitas
• ⅓ cup of walnuts
• ⅓ cup of ground flaxseeds
• ⅓ cup of honey or pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup of unsweetened apple sauce
• ¼ cup of sunflower seeds
• ¾ cup of whole almonds

Directions:

• Get a baking pan and cover it with baking paper, so that the baking paper hangs over the edges.
• Mix all the ingredients mentioned above in a bowl.
• Add honey, maple syrup or applesauce if you want to add some sweet taste to the protein bar.
• Add almond butter which will help mix the ingredients.
• Pour the mixed mass of ingredients into the baking pan by pressing down firmly with hands. Distribute the ingredients evenly as much as possible.
• Put it in a freezer for about 1 hour.
• Remove the baking pan from the freezer. Lift up the baking paper and gently peel the paper away. Slice the mass into bars. You should get about 16 protein bars in total.
• Keep the bars in a sealed bag in the freezer and consume them whenever you want a healthy and quick snack or meal.