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Sports nutrition: how to choose the right products for your training

Choosing a protein bar, protein drink or food supplement for sport may seem straightforward. Yet packaging often focuses on flavour, performance claims or a few fashionable ingredients, at the expense of the information that really matters.

Before putting a product in your gym bag, check three things: the nutritional composition per serving, when you plan to consume it and the presence of allergens. A high-protein bar does not meet the same need as an energy bar. BCAAs and beta-alanine, meanwhile, require particular attention to dosage and usage precautions.

Common pitfalls in sports nutrition

1. Confusing protein with energy

A protein bar generally contains more protein and fewer carbohydrates than an energy bar. Depending on your needs and diet, it is more suitable as a snack between meals or after a workout.

By contrast, a bar made with oats, syrup or fruit often provides more carbohydrates. It may be better suited to before or during endurance activities such as running, cycling or hiking.

2. Relying solely on the ‘sugar-free’ claim

This claim may conceal the presence of polyols, such as maltitol, or sweeteners. Always check the nutritional table to distinguish between sugars, carbohydrates, fibre and polyols. A product low in sugar will not necessarily suit your digestion or everyday diet.

3. Overlooking allergens and your own tolerance

Milk, soya, peanuts, nuts, gluten and eggs are common in sports nutrition products. Read the ingredients list carefully, along with any statement such as ‘may contain traces of…’, particularly if you have a known allergy.

Supplements, especially BCAAs, beta-alanine and vitamin and mineral formulas, should also be used in accordance with the instructions on the label. They are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet.

Criteria to check before buying

Quantity per serving

Compare products based on a serving you would actually consume, rather than only per 100 g. A 40 g bar providing 10,4 g of protein is not comparable with a 55 g bar containing 17,6 g.

For a protein snack, pay particular attention to:

  • the amount of protein per bar or serving;
  • the carbohydrate and sugar content;
  • the amount of fibre;
  • fat and saturated fat;
  • total energy content.

A bar containing polyols may show very little sugar, but it will not necessarily be suitable for people with sensitive digestion.

When to consume it

For pre-workout nutrition, choose a format that is easy to digest and suitable for the duration of your activity. A carbohydrate-rich energy bar can support a long outing, while a very high-protein bar may be more filling.

After your workout, a protein bar, high-protein dairy product or protein drink can complement a meal or snack. These products alone cannot guarantee good muscle recovery: rest, hydration and a suitable diet remain essential.

Format and storage

Individual sachets are convenient to carry in a bag, a cycling jersey pocket or a desk drawer. Also check the storage temperature, protection from moisture and best-before date.

For powders and tablets, also check:

  • the number of servings actually available;
  • whether a scoop is included and how much to take per serving;
  • the maximum daily dose;
  • any contraindications specified by the manufacturer;
  • the presence of allergens or possible traces.

Our selection for your profile

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
FULFIL Protein Bar Chocolate Peanut & Caramel 3x40g

FULFIL Protein Bar Chocolate Peanut & Caramel 3x40g

Why this choice suits this profile : Its individual 40 g format is ideal for a first try or as an easy-to-carry snack after a fitness session.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The manufacturer's nutritional table states that each bar contains 15 g of protein, 1 g of sugar and 8 g of fibre. The presence of peanuts, milk and soya is clearly indicated.

Main benefit and key strengths

190 kcal per bar, individual packaging and vitamins listed in the composition.

Recommended for : Premium-product enthusiasts
KoRo Protein Bar Deluxe Pistachio Butter 55g

KoRo Protein Bar Deluxe Pistachio Butter 55g

Why this choice suits this profile : Its pistachio filling and milk chocolate coating will appeal to anyone looking for a carefully crafted texture and a generous portion.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ‘no added sugar’ claim is accompanied by a table specifying 12 g of polyols and 2 g of sugar per bar. This gives you more than just a simple marketing claim to go on.

Main benefit and key strengths

14 g of protein, 5 g of fibre and 220 kcal per 55 g bar, with pistachio and milk, soya and fava bean proteins.

Recommended for : Specific uses and intensive users
BODY&FIT - BCAA Amino Orange Mango - 330 Grams

BODY&FIT - BCAA Amino Orange Mango - 330 Grams (22 Doses)

Why this choice suits this profile : This powder dissolves in a drink and can be incorporated into a routine before, during or after exercise. It is suitable for active adults who prefer to avoid tablets.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The recommended serving is 15 g of powder in 250 ml of liquid, providing 8 g of BCAAs according to the product information. The daily limit and usage precautions must be followed.

Main benefit and key strengths

A formula advertised as vegan, a 2:1:1 ratio of leucine, isoleucine and valine, a 330 g format and 22 stated servings.

Looking for more options ?

We have put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European safety regulations.

Which nutrition should you choose for your activity ?

  • Weight training and fitness: a protein bar or drink can make a convenient snack around your workout. Compare the protein content, calories and sugars.
  • Running and cycling: an energy bar rich in carbohydrates will often be better suited to prolonged activity. CLIF bars, for example, state their carbohydrate and fibre content per serving.
  • Hiking and outdoor activities: choose individual packaging, simple storage and a format robust enough to withstand being carried around.
  • Targeted supplementation: BCAAs, beta-alanine, vitamins and minerals should not be added automatically. Check the dosage, recommended duration of use and warnings on the label.

Sports nutrition FAQ

When should you take a protein bar ?

It can be eaten between meals, after training or whenever you need an easy-to-carry snack. The choice depends mainly on your overall diet and the bar's composition. For endurance activity, an energy bar containing carbohydrates will meet a different need.

Are BCAAs essential for recovery ?

BCAAs are not essential for everyone. Their usefulness depends on your diet, your goal and the context of your training. Follow the manufacturer's recommended dose and seek advice from a healthcare professional if you are taking medication, pregnant, breastfeeding or have a medical condition.

How long can a food supplement be kept ?

Follow the date shown on the packaging and the storage instructions. Powder should generally be kept sealed, dry and away from heat. After opening, use the scoop provided and close the container carefully. If the product's smell, texture or appearance changes, it is best not to consume it.