Many students struggle to eat healthily during their time in college, sometimes turning to questionable snacks to stay full in between classes. Protein bars often fall under that category and are usually painted as a healthy choice, but there are a few things you should keep in mind before buying them.
High Sugar Content
The biggest problem with protein bars is that they can be as high in sugar as regular chocolate bars. Always check the label before buying one to make sure it has a minimal sugar content.
High-Fat Content
High-fat content is also present in some of the popular protein bars. Some of it hails from healthy sources, such as nuts and seeds, but you should be concerned if highly processed plant oils are present, as well.
Artificial Additives
Some protein bar manufacturers rely on artificial additives, sweeteners, and preservatives to keep them tasty. Make sure to check the label and opt for protein bars made from natural ingredients instead.
Meal Substitute
Protein bars can be a convenient snack to eat between meals, but they can’t replace whole foods in your diet. No matter how busy your schedule is, try to eat regular meals instead of relying on snacks to stay full.
