Are Protein Bars a Good Calorie Source for Bulking or Just a Waste?
Quick question for the bulking veterans out there. I'm always looking for convenient ways to hit my calorie and protein targets, especially when I'm on the go or just don't have time to cook another meal. Protein bars seem like an easy win, but I'm always a bit wary.
Some bars are seriously high in calories, like 300-400 Cals, with decent protein and carbs. Brands like Grenade or Quest bars are popular, but some of the bigger ones (like a few of the MusclePharm Combat Crunch bars) pack a punch. But then I look at the ingredients list, and it's often a bit dodgy with a lot of artificial sweeteners and fillers.
Are these actually a good supplemental source for bulking, or are they mostly just glorified candy bars that'll mess with your digestion or lead to unwanted fat gain? Is it better to just stick to whole foods, even if it's less convenient? Interested to hear your thoughts and experiences with using protein bars for serious bulking. What brands, if any, do you trust?