Benefits of Protein in Your Diet & Peanut Butter Coconut Protein Bars

Protein is part of healthy eating at any age and with any diet. It helps build and repair tissues and ensures your body functions properly. It is best consumed after workouts, and at mealtime in combination with other fats and carbohydrates to keep you feeling fuller longer.

Weight Maintenance and Weight Loss

Aside from basic physiological benefits, a diet with healthy amounts of protein can aid in weight loss and help maintain a healthy weight. It keeps you feeling fuller and more satisfied than other macronutrients (fat, carbohydrates). This means you’re less likely to eat as quickly after mealtime, and you will make healthier food choices if you’re feeling satisfied with your overall diet.

Muscle Repair

Muscles fibers begin repair immediately after damage from exercise. Protein aids in the repair process and helps with muscle memory and reduces soreness preparing you for your next workout. Pair protein with carbohydrates post workout for maximum benefit.

Sharp Thinking and a Clear Mind

Protein contains amino acids that makeup neurotransmitters, which work as messengers carrying information through your brain. They are better able to deliver these messages when they are fed right. This translates into better overall function and a sharp memory.

 

The Ultimate Protein Bar: Peanut Butter Coconut Protein Bars

You can see why protein is so important; I love the nutritional benefits but have a hard time getting enough of it in my diet. I am not a vegetarian, but not a big meat eater either. This recipe is perfect because it is so tasty, convenient and easy to make.

I used pea protein rather than whey, and the taste difference is undeniable! Quinoa, peanut butter, and protein-rich pumpkin seeds are also to thank for this nutritious snack. It will help keep you feeling fuller longer, and without the additives processed snack bars have.

Give it a try guys!

Peanut Butter Coconut Protein Bars

Ingredients:

2 c whole oats

1 c quinoa

1/2 c pumpkin seeds

1/2 c unsweetened, flaked coconut

1/2 c peanut butter

1/2 c brown rice syrup

60 g pea protein powder

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 f. On a baking sheet combine oats, quinoa, pumpkin seeds and coconut. Bake for 7 minutes until ingredients are fragrant and lightly brown.
2. Meanwhile, in a sauce pot combine peanut butter and brown rice syrup. Heat over medium whisking until mixture is uniform and in a liquid state.
3. Place baked ingredients in a large mixing bowl and add protein powder. Mix until ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Mix in melted rice syrup and peanut butter until mixture is well combined and sticky. If it seems a little dry add water 2 tbsp at a time until mixture comes together. You should be able to squeeze a handful of the mixture and release it without it crumbling.
5. Press into a 9X13 inch pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Cut bars into 10 servings, store in the refrigerator.