Protein and granola have long been considered a convenient choice for busy people or those who are pursuing a healthy diet.
But according to a new warning from hormonal experts, the habit of using protein bars instead of meals can cause blood sugar to spike, causing metabolic disorders and hindering weight loss goals.
Endocrinologist Alessia Roehnelt (working at Summit Medical Group - Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, New Jersey) emphasizes that many protein bars labelled as healthy actually contain significant amounts of added sugar.
If youre trying to lose weight, this seemingly healthy snack could be ruining your blood sugar, she warned.
Regular consumption causes strong fluctuations in blood sugar, creating a feeling of hunger and leading to eating more later.
In fact, the ingredients in protein bars are more complex than the label promises. Although they provide protein and fast energy, many products contain up to 25g of added sugar, including glucose syrup, cassava syrup, honey or brown rice syrup.
These are all substances that suddenly increase blood glucose. In addition to hidden sugar, Dr. Roehnelt noted that many types also contain processed seed oils, which are not beneficial if used regularly.
Even prominent protein bars can contain refined carbohydrates, with brown rice or rice flour as the first ingredient.
This combination leads to increased insulin, followed by a drop in blood sugar, making the body crave sweeter food at the end of the day.
This explains why many people feel hungry quickly despite eating a bar of energy supplements.
To limit the risk, Dr. Roehnelt recommends that consumers prioritize whole foods, instead of considering protein bars as a complete meal replacement.
If you still want to use it, read the label carefully and choose products that meet some criteria: at least 10g of protein, 35g of fiber, and less than 5g of added sugar.
In addition, consumers should prioritize bars with simple, easy-to- read ingredient lists and not containing too many hard-to-recognize additives.
The expert also emphasized that the longer and more complex the ingredient names, the more suspicious they are.
This could be a sign of additives or sweeteners that are hidden under various names.
Long-term use not only affects weight but also disrupts blood sugar, increases the risk of fatigue and loss of hunger control.
The strong lines do not lie in beautiful packaging or advertising lines, but in the real ingredients inside.
An energy bar can be convenient, but it should not be a instead of a main meal if you want to keep your metabolism stable and support sustainable weight loss.
(The article is for reference only, not a replacement for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you have health questions).
