Protein Products are Empty Calories... let us explain

Your protein poptarts, cereal, and protein bars are empty calories. They are processed foods dressed up as health foods. Protein is the new made with whole grains. These products lack real nutrition - vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients. They are highly palatable and thus easy to binge on. Many of them are loaded with artificial additives and the ones that aren’t are really expensive. In my opinion, the amount of calories and lack of real nutrition in such a small portion for the price is not a good option. If you like the taste, have some. But treat it like the treat it is, and not a replacement for whole foods.

Protein Products Are Empty Calories

Have you ever picked up a protein poptart, cereal, or bar and thought, “Wow, this is healthy!” It’s easy to think so – the bold “20g PROTEIN” label screams health. But here’s the truth:

Most of these products are empty calories.

Protein poptarts and bars are just processed foods dressed up as health foods. Protein is the new “made with whole grains” marketing label. Sure, they contain protein, but what else do they offer? Many lack real nutrition – no vitamins, minerals, or phytonutrients – just a mix of refined ingredients and sweeteners designed to keep you coming back for more.

Let’s break down why these protein products aren’t as great as they seem:

✅ They’re highly palatable. Easy to overeat, leaving you with 400+ calories of what is essentially a candy bar with protein.

✅ They’re full of artificial additives. Even the “clean” ones are often ultra-processed or very expensive for what they offer.

✅ They’re nutrient-poor. Most protein bars won’t provide antioxidants, fiber, or phytonutrients your body needs to thrive.

✅ They’re expensive for the nutrition they provide. You’re paying premium prices for glorified candy.

This doesn’t mean you can’t ever have them. If you like the taste, enjoy them as a treat – not as a daily replacement for real food. Treat them like you would a dessert or specialty snack.

My Favorite Whole Food Protein Products

If you’re looking for protein options that actually nourish your body, here are my go-tos. These options provide protein plus fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your body needs to thrive.

🥣 Roasted Edamame Link here

• 130 kcal, 13g protein, 5g fiber

• Only 3 ingredients

• Good source of iron

• Pair with: Fresh fruit for added antioxidants.

🍗 Epic Chicken Bar Link here

• 100 kcal, 11g protein

• Simple, whole ingredients

• Good source of B vitamins

• Pair with: Fresh fruit for fiber and sweetness.

🐟 Safe Catch Tuna Packets Link here

• 110 kcal, 20g protein

• Mercury tested for safety

• Rich in omega-3s and vitamin D

• Pair with: Sliced veggies for crunch and fiber.

🌱 Roasted Lupini Beans Link here

• 100 kcal, 12g protein, 9g fiber

• Good source of folate

• Pair with: Fresh fruit for a balanced snack.

🍦 Greek Yogurt Link here

• 80 kcal, 14g protein

• Good source of calcium and probiotics

• Serve with: Herbs as a veggie dip, or mix in fruit for a creamy parfait.

The Bottom Line

Don’t fall into the trap of thinking all protein products are good for you. Remember, marketing does not equal nutrition. Whole food-based protein options will always provide your body with more nourishment, satiety, and health benefits than processed bars or cereals.

✨ Eat for nourishment first, and enjoy treats mindfully.