A lot of you are not going to like this one. There are a lot of diehard Barebells fans out there. Remember, this is just my opinion … But let me state my case! Protein bars are popular not only for sports recovery, but also to help people feel full on a relatively small number of calories. As we tip over our 40s, protein becomes more important (especially for ladies going through the peri) and even more important once we are over 60.

This is due to the accelerated muscle loss associated with ageing. Lose your muscle, lose your longevity … so maintenance is key. Protein is also an important focus for those using GLP-1 medication (eg Ozempic.) The reduced appetite associated with these meds also often leads to muscle loss ― which can distort and jeopardise the success of weight loss results. So again, prioritising protein intake becomes key.

Whilst it’s possible to get plenty of protein at mealtime (although breakfast can be more of a challenge), it’s harder to find decent protein-rich snacks that are available on-the-go. And although I am a huge fan of snacks like an apple and almonds, or hummus and fresh veggies, these may not quite cut it for protein intake around a workout. Also, we need to consider timing.

If your workout goal is to increase muscle mass, then genetically and situationally, some people really do benefit from protein timing.

There’s lots of data to support the argument that some people do best when they have their post-workout protein within 45 minutes of completing their workout. It can be hard to get your hands on a chicken breast within that time frame, but it’s easy to keep protein bars in your desk drawer, bag or car.

Having said that, liquid protein is more easily digested and absorbed post workout so I would most often recommend shakes.

My favourite protein powders for this purpose are Vivo (Miles) and Garden of Life organic vegan sport (Miles, and other stores) which are both super-clean and bioavailable. I prefer plant-based protein powders personally, but if you choose a whey protein, try and find one that is labelled “grass-fed”.

But back to the bars! Let’s go backwards this time and explain first why I am not a fan of Barebells. Firstly, as mentioned above, if you consume dairy then I always recommend going organic, for both health and animal welfare purposes.

Barebells contain milk proteins from conventional farms rather than grass-fed operations. Please note that they are a UK brand and I have to say I am much happier with UK standards vs US. This is why I didn’t totally collapse when my teens went through a Barebells phase!

Secondly, Barebells don’t contain any added sugars. How is this possible when they are so sweet and delicious? Well, it’s because of the artificial sweeteners and sugar alcohols.

Neither of these are nourishing for the body and in large amounts can be actively harmful. Not to mention they can have a laxative effect ….so easy does it!

Are there better options? Well if you need 20g protein or more, then try a protein shake made with a clean protein (as above) or if you are on the go, pick up the Nutrifit Recovery Mode or Bermuda Blues from Miles.

Or, if you are looking for something protein-rich but are OK with 10-14g protein, then from a bar perspective, let’s look at my two plant-based favourites. Aloha and GoMacro are available in Miles and other stores.

Aloha has a solid 14g protein and only 5g sugars. It’s sweetened with monk fruit vs artificial sweeteners which is a big win in my book. Also, check out the fibre.

That’s impressive and effective. This is a great option if you are in weight loss mode and don’t need a bump of sugars for energy.

Also, you know that little sugar craving that sneaks up on you after lunch or dinner? I often break off a piece of a chocolate Aloha bar and that nips it in the bud for me.

The GoMacros are my favourite for a missed meal on the run, or as a snack on an active day. They do contain about 8g sugars from brown rice syrup and chocolate chips, but they are balanced with 10g protein. For perspective, an egg contains 6g protein.

Note ― not all GoMacros are created equal. I really only recommend the high protein ones, with 10g protein or more, which are identified by the little label in the top right corner on the front of the bar.

I absolutely love these about an hour before a run, or on a weekend walk! Heads up ― Aloha bars definitely taste like a protein bar.

GoMacro are more like a soft granola bar. Just remember to enjoy GoMacro on more active days!

• The advice given in this article is not intended to replace medical advice, but to complement it. Always consult your GP if you have any health concerns. Catherine Burns BA Hons, Dip ION, BNTA is a fully qualified Nutritional Therapist trained by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in Britain. Join Catherine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutrifitandnaturalnutritionbermuda or instagram @naturalbda