From the Blog

When is the Best Time to Eat a Protein Bar?

Is the best time to eat a protein bar at breakfast, to start your day strong? How long before you workout should you eat a protein bar? Or should it be your post-workout meal? How about as your last meal of the day?

best time to eat a protein as shown on a wall clock with question marks

To give the best answer to this question, it is better to first briefly talk about a more important topic – the nutrition of the bar. Timing is irrelevant if you are putting garbage into your body. Not all protein bars are created equal. In fact, most on the market are glorified candy bars, even those that boast of only using “natural ingredients” or are promoted by celebrities.

What Makes a Protein Bar Nutritious?

You want to fuel your body with a bar high in protein and fiber, low in sugar and net carbs, and zero sugar alcohols. Gluten-free and non-GMO are bonuses, as are features like a long shelf life, not requiring refrigeration, and not having a coating (it will melt too easily and gets really messy when you are trying to eat it). You also want one that is substantial enough in weight to satisfy your hunger for at least two or three hours. A bar with all of these qualities is most likely called a meal replacement bar.

How to Use Meal Replacement Bars?

Meal replacement bars are just that – convenient, nutrient-dense meals. The best time to eat a protein bar, or really a meal replacement bar, is when you need a nutritious meal and you don’t have the time or don’t want to make the time for a sit-down meal. A meal replacement bar is perfect when you are on-the-go. It can be a healthy breakfast, a pre-workout meal, lunch, dinner,  post-workout, or any time of day.

Why Listen to Me?

I’m a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition coach, and used to watch my clients struggle to find ways to eat right while on-the-go. I looked at the protein and energy bars on the market and was dismayed with their nutrition. So…I created the Catalyst Bar.

Catalyst Bar Meal Replacement Peanut Butter Brownie
Catalyst Meal Replacement Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Catalyst Bars are for health-conscious consumers who want a nutritionally-complete bar that tastes good. I made sure they met every requirement:

  • High protein
  • High fiber
  • Low sugar
  • Low net carbs
  • Zero sugar alcohols
  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Keto-friendly
  • 12 month shelf life, no refrigeration required

And they taste great!