Focus on proper nutrition and pre-workout snacks for optimal exercise performance. Vegan protein bars can indeed be a great choice for a pre-workout snack, providing you with a combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to fuel your workout and sustain your energy levels. Kayla Itsines’ endorsement of a homemade protein bar on Instagram shows the growing awareness of the importance of nutrition in the fitness community, especially for those following a vegan diet.
Creating your own vegan protein bars allows you to control the quality of ingredients, avoid unnecessary additives, and customize the flavors to your liking. As mentioned earlier, you can easily make protein bars at home using a variety of plant-based ingredients, such as oats, nuts, seeds, nut butter, dried fruit, and plant-based protein powder.
Here are some additional points to consider when making or choosing a vegan protein bar as a pre-workout snack:
- Nutrient Balance: Aim for a good balance of macronutrients – protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats – in your protein bar to provide sustained energy throughout your workout.
- Protein Content: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. Look for a protein bar with an adequate amount of protein to support your workout goals.
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide quick energy and are important for fueling your muscles. Opt for complex carbohydrates from sources like oats or dried fruit.
- Fiber: Fiber helps with digestion and provides a sense of fullness. Including ingredients like oats and nuts can contribute to the fiber content of your bar.
- Minimal Added Sugar: Be mindful of added sugars. While some sweetness is fine, try to choose natural sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Hydration: Remember to hydrate before your workout. Drinking water is crucial for maintaining energy levels and preventing dehydration.
- Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes. While pre-workout snacks should provide energy, consuming too much can lead to discomfort during exercise.
Homemade vegan protein bars recipe sounds delicious and nutritious, and it’s great to see the use of whole, plant-based ingredients to create a satisfying pre-workout snack. Homemade protein bars like these can indeed be a wonderful alternative to packaged options that may contain additives and artificial flavors.
The combination of dates, seeds, nuts, tahini, and optional vegan protein powder offers a well-rounded source of energy, protein, healthy fats, and fiber – all of which can contribute to sustained energy during your workout. The addition of melted dark chocolate on top provides an extra touch of flavor and indulgence.
Here’s a summarized version of the recipe for reference:
Ingredients:
- 6 pitted dates, soaked in hot water for 15 minutes and drained
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 4 tbsp flaxseeds
- 150 g roasted almonds
- 20 g sunflower seeds
- 2 tbsp goji berries
- 40 g desiccated coconut
- A pinch of sea salt
- Vegan protein powder (optional)
- 110 g tahini (toasted ground hulled sesame seeds)
Instructions:
- Grind chia seeds, flaxseeds, roasted almonds, sunflower seeds, goji berries, desiccated coconut, sea salt, and vegan protein powder (if using) into a flour using a grinder.
- Add soaked dates and tahini to the mixture and grind for another 30 seconds until well mixed and sticky.
- Place the mixture in a rectangular container and refrigerate for around an hour.
- Remove from the container and cut into even-sized bars.
- Optional: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars.
- Place bars in the fridge to allow the chocolate to set (if using).
- Store the protein bars in an airtight container.
By making your own protein bars, you have the flexibility to customize flavors, control ingredients, and ensure that you’re consuming a wholesome snack to fuel your workout. These bars sound like a fantastic option to enjoy before hitting the gym. Thank you for sharing this homemade vegan protein bar recipe!
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
