There’s a new protein bar generating buzz: David bars. Created by a co-founder of RXBAR, with backing from wellness influencers like Peter Attia and Andrew Huberman, David bars are making waves in the health and fitness world. After securing $10 million in seed funding, the brand promises an “idealized” protein bar designed to help users gain muscle and lose fat. But, does it live up to the hype?
Here’s what experts have to say about these protein-packed bars.
What’s Inside a David Protein Bar?
High Protein Content
David bars boast an impressive 28 grams of protein per bar. The protein sources include milk protein isolate, collagen, whey protein concentrate, and egg whites. This combination provides all 20 essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle growth and recovery. According to Bryan Le, PhD, a food scientist, this makes David bars a complete protein source. However, it’s worth noting that the bar is made with animal-based proteins, so it’s not suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
Binding and Fat Ingredients
Like most protein bars, David bars contain ingredients to help bind the components together, such as maltitol, allulose, and glycerin. While these ingredients help with texture, they could cause gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in excess. “Sugar alcohols like maltitol are known to cause bloating and stomach cramps in some people,” says Amy Stephens, RDN, a dietitian specializing in sports nutrition.
The bars also contain modified plant fat (EPG), a type of fat your body can’t break down, helping to lower the overall calorie content. This contributes to the bar’s higher percentage of calories from protein, which can be beneficial for weight loss, according to Michael Russo, MD, a bariatric surgeon.
No Sugar, but Artificial Sweeteners
David bars are sugar-free, using a blend of artificial sweeteners like stevia, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, and monk fruit to enhance flavor. While these sweeteners help keep the calorie count low, they can have mixed effects on appetite and digestion. Some studies suggest that artificial sweeteners might lead people to consume more calories later on, though none of these sweeteners are considered dangerous in moderation.
Palm kernel oil, another ingredient in the bar, is high in saturated fat, which has been linked to heart health issues. However, research on the impact of palm kernel oil is mixed.
A Highly Processed Product
David bars are undeniably processed, with ingredients like artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and non-digestible fats. While this makes them convenient, it’s important to note that they aren’t a “clean label” option. As Le points out, if you’re looking for a protein bar with more natural ingredients, you might prefer options like RXBARs or Kind bars.
Can David Bars Help You Lose Fat and Gain Muscle?
Though David bars are packed with protein, they won’t magically make you lose fat or gain muscle by themselves. Weight loss and muscle gain depend on several factors, including exercise, sleep, diet, and genetics.
Protein plays a crucial role in muscle building and fat loss. It’s more satiating than carbs or fats, meaning it can help you stay full longer, making it easier to manage your calorie intake. Additionally, protein is the building block of muscle tissue, and consuming enough of it is essential if you’re aiming to gain muscle mass.
However, Dr. Russo clarifies that while the David bar has high-quality protein, it isn’t necessarily a game-changer. “It’s a high-quality protein bar, but I wouldn’t call it revolutionary,” he says. “As long as you’re meeting your protein needs with regular exercise and a healthy diet, you can achieve weight loss or muscle gain with a variety of protein bars.”
Protein bars, including David bars, should be seen as a supplement to whole foods. If you struggle to meet your protein needs with real food, a bar like David’s can help, especially when you’re in a pinch. But, as Stephens points out, it’s always best to prioritize unprocessed whole foods for sustainable health, weight loss, and muscle gain.
The Verdict: A Convenient Protein Option
David bars are an excellent convenient source of high-quality protein, but they aren’t a magic solution for weight loss or muscle building. They can be a helpful addition to your diet, especially when you need a quick protein boost. However, a well-rounded, nutrient-dense diet and regular exercise should always be your foundation for achieving your fitness goals.
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