Soy-Less Protein Bars

By Brenda Kenners

When people are looking to get in shape or slim down, they normally concentrate on working out more frequently and eating healthier. Nevertheless, our busy way of living often makes it challenging to stick to healthy foods consistently, since meals require effort to prepare.

I know from my own experience that right after a long run or an exhausting swim, the last thing I want to do is cook a meal. I am typically too tired and just am looking for something quick and simple to consume.

That is where nutrition bars come in useful. They usually consist of a variety of healthy nutrients, and they are small and easy to carry with you so we can easily eat them on the go. They are particularly good to have after an exercise routine when we are not in the house to cook a healthy meal.

That said, there is a downside to protein bars.

Some products pack in just as many unhealthy ingredients as healthy ones. We may not be doing our bodies any favors, and in many cases, we might be no worse off consuming a bag of candy.

Soy Protein Concentrate

One usual component included in many protein bars is soy protein isolate. Some products even have this noted as the main ingredient. Soy itself is not necessarily bad, however many of the soybeans developed in the US have been genetically modified and can interfere with our hormones.

In addition, soy protein isolate is processed, which makes it a completely different food than the fresh raw soybean alone. Overall, it's a much better strategy to eat unrefined foods in their taw or natural form rather than the processed option. Usually, processed foods contain less vitamins and minerals anyway.

Occasionally eating a protein bar with this processed protein source might not have a substantial impact. Nevertheless, in my view, I would not want to have one as a snack everyday after working out - especially if I have alternative and better choices.

Therefore, with a large number of supposed "healthy" bars on store shelves with soy protein, where does one shop for another choice? It is taxing to review every product label, and many supermarkets do not sell a large selection.

Here's Something Good

Fortunately, that there are a growing number of soy-free bars offered today, due in part to the paleo movement. Some paleo-friendly bars might not contain as much protein as standard products, however, in many cases they contain more than enough.

For more information on paleo protein bars that do not include soy, click here.

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For more tips on healthy protein bars that are better for weight loss, click here