Protein is essential for building proper hormones, to ensure your immune system is functioning at it’s best & building muscles… just to name a few things!
As a society, most people get enough protein if they eat meat, but more and more women are coming to me in a very protein-deficient state. The two biggest symptoms I see with this: low energy & frequently getting sick. When I bring up more protein, the conversation usually comes to protein bars. Are they good or bad?
As a general rule, I like to have people stay away from most protein bars. If you read the ingredients, they usually include loads of sugar {even high-fructose corn syrup}, additives, preservatives, dyes & other junk that isn’t great for our bodies. I encourage my clients to make their own version of protein bars – that way you know what you are eating and giving your body what it really needs.
Here is one of my favorite bar recipes, they are quick,easy & yummy! Try them for a pick-me-up snack the next time you are hungry!
No-Bake Easy Protein Bars
DRY:
- 1.5 c Oats
- 1/2 c Shredded Coconut (I used sweetened)
- 1/2 c Raisins (or date chunks, cranberries, craisins, dried cherries/mangoes/apricots/etc. Any dried fruit will work- Nutrition stats calculated with CRAISINS.)
- 1/2 c Chocolate Chips
- 1/4 c almonds, chopped
- 3 scoops Vanilla Protein Powder
- 2 Tbsp Flax Seeds
- 2 Tbsp Chia Seeds
- 1.5 Tsp Cinnamon
WET:
- 1 Ripe Banana (mashed)
- 1/2 c Maple Syrup (or agave, yacon syrup)
- 1/2 c Peanut Butter (or any nut butter, i.e. almond, pecan, cashew, etc.)
- 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract
Directions
Spread mixture into 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish lined with plastic wrap or waxed paper. Press until flat.
Place dish in freezer for a few hours, or until firm. Remove from dish and carefully cut into 15 squares/bars or logs. For easy grab-and-go snacks, wrap bars individually in plastic wrap.
Store in fridge or freezer for up to a month. These bars soften quickly at room temperature.
Makes 15 protein/granola bars.
