Man’s Week-Long Protein Bar Diet Leads To Surprising Body Reactions

In recent years, protein bars have become a popular go-to for people looking for a quick source of nutrition. They promise a concentrated dose of protein, often with less sugar than typical sweets, making them attractive to fitness enthusiasts and busy individuals.

However, while convenient, these bars are not meant to be substitutes for complete meals. A recent YouTube experiment highlights how challenging and detrimental it can be to rely solely on protein bars for sustenance over an extended period.

Colin Murray, a YouTuber from Wisconsin, decided to put protein bars to the test by consuming nothing but them for an entire week. He aimed to see how his body would respond while maintaining his rigorous calisthenic workout routine.

While protein bars offer benefits, such as easy access to protein, they lack the necessary balance of nutrients that a healthy diet requires. Murray’s experiment quickly revealed the physical consequences of such a restrictive diet.

From the start, Murray noticed some unexpected side effects. On the first day, he found convenience in not needing to cook. However, by the end of the day, after consuming six protein bars—two for each meal—he began to regret his decision.

He remarked that his stomach felt uncomfortable and bloated, indicating that this experiment would be more challenging than anticipated.

“I think I'm pregnant; my stomach's broken. I'm already starting to get sick of this food,” he said.

"I Ate Only Protein Bars For A Week! "

As the days progressed, Murray faced increasing health issues. By day two, he was alarmed that he had not yet had a proper bowel movement.

His body seemed to struggle with the lack of fiber and other essential nutrients found in regular meals. He openly shared his concerns, noting that he hadn't "pooped in three days," which understandably caused him anxiety. The lack of regular digestion showed that his body wasn’t getting what it needed from the protein bars alone.

“I ate a lot of protein bars, but nothing has come out yet, so that's a little bit alarming. I haven't pooped in three days. That is a long time, and to be honest, it is kind of starting to freak me out a little bit,” he admitted.

The severity of his digestive problems forced him to briefly break his strict diet, adding some fresh fruit like blueberries and apples to help things "move downstairs." While this offered temporary relief, it didn’t resolve all the issues he faced during the week-long challenge.

Nutritional Insights

Dr. Michael Greger, a well-known nutritionist and author, emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet over relying solely on protein bars. He states that while protein bars can be convenient, they often lack essential nutrients found in whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

Greger notes that consuming a variety of foods not only ensures adequate nutrient intake but also supports gut health, which is crucial for overall well-being. Incorporating whole foods can lead to improved energy levels and better metabolic function, making it vital to prioritize a diverse diet.

Colin Murray was challenged to eat nothing but protein bars for a week.

On day four, Murray returned to his protein-bar-only diet and continued to experience discomfort. He felt tired and weak throughout the day, and his bloating persisted.

One of the most concerning observations was the visible change in his physical appearance. Murray, who typically sported a defined six-pack due to his workout routine, noticed that his abdominal definition had diminished. The bloating from the bars made his body look and feel different, indicating that something wasn’t right.

YouTube

In addition to the physical changes, Murray also experienced more general fatigue. By day five, he felt both exhausted and restless.

His workouts were not as productive, as his body lacked the energy needed to perform at its usual level. This decline in his physical performance was a significant red flag that the diet was taking a toll on his body.

As the week ended, Murray's attitude toward protein bars shifted drastically. Once a fan of their convenience, he now saw them in a different light.

He expressed guilt over how frequently he had consumed protein bars in the past, realizing that processed foods, even those marketed as healthy, can negatively affect the body when consumed in excess.

“I feel like I've been poisoning myself for the past five years because I've eaten these a lot—especially this week. Processed food [like protein bars] really just kills your energy, is kind of what I'm noticing... when you eat processed food, it really messes you up.This past week, I haven't gotten sleep; I haven't been able to do anything... They should be an every-now-and-again snack,” concluded this YouTuber.

Murray noticed his workouts were getting more challenging, and he was dealing with a constant feeling of bloating.

YouTube

Murray’s experiment showed the importance of a balanced and varied diet. While protein bars are a quick and easy way to get protein, they can’t provide your body with everything it needs.

His bloating, tiredness, and other health issues proved that protein isn’t enough to keep your body functioning well. You also need carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy.

This experiment reminds us that convenience shouldn’t come before good nutrition. While protein bars can be handy when you’re in a hurry, they are no replacement for a proper meal.

Murray’s week on protein bars made it clear that they shouldn’t be relied upon as a regular food source, and it’s always best to maintain a balanced diet.

A registered dietitian, Kristen Smith, highlights the psychological impact of restrictive diets, such as the one based solely on protein bars. She explains that such diets can lead to feelings of deprivation, which may ultimately result in binge eating or unhealthy relationships with food.

Smith recommends a more balanced approach that includes a variety of macronutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. She suggests meal prepping with whole foods to create nutritious options that satisfy cravings without sacrificing nutritional value. This strategy fosters a healthier relationship with food.

Therapeutic Insights & Recovery

The findings from this week-long protein bar diet experiment underscore the significance of nutritional diversity. Experts like Dr. Greger and Kristen Smith advocate for a balanced diet rich in whole foods, which can enhance physical health and emotional well-being.

Moving forward, individuals should consider incorporating a broader range of nutrients into their diets to avoid potential pitfalls associated with restrictive eating patterns. By prioritizing variety and whole foods, one can achieve better health outcomes and a more positive relationship with food.