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Scott Welch BASc. (Nutrition)

Scott Welch has devoted his career studying performance enhancement and weight loss through dietary intervention. He received a bachelor of applied science degree in Nutrition from Ryerson University and later completed a post-graduate certificate in advertising. He’s had countless interactions with leading scientists, doctors, and hundreds of trainers from around the world, giving him a unique perspective that others lack. Welch founded MUSCLE INSIDER in 2009.

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Collagen In Protein Bars

QUESTION: I’ve seen collagen in various protein bars on the market, and you claim that this is a shit protein source in terms of quality. What does he mean by this?

ANSWER: Well I'm not alone in my thinking that it's a poor quality protein source. This low-quality protein is often a top choice of many supplement companies because it's cheap, keeps bars from going hard, and has a good taste. Unfortunately, despite its manufacturing qualities, it lacks nutritional value. If you weren’t aware, hydrolyzed protein isn’t isolated from traditional and high-quality protein sources such as whey or caseinate; it’s mainly obtained from the bones, skin, connective tissue and cartilage of pigs, cows and fish! Many manufacturers try to disguise this ingredient under one of its many names: hydrolyzed collagenic protein isolate, hydrolyzed beef protein isolate, or even just hydrolyzed protein. Hydrolyzed protein is abundant in the three major amino acids—glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline—which isn’t an optimal amino acid profile for humans, compared to the high biological value and rich BCAA content of whey protein. Now if that wasn’t enough to deter you from eating another protein bar, let me be blunt: In addition to the low-quality protein, you will also find an abundant amount of other not-so-good-for-you ingredients! Most bars contain high amounts of fat and sugar. Now, if you’re not so concerned about your diet and need a quick, healthy meal alternative, then reach for a protein bar! But if you’re serious about your training, especially if you’re dieting for a contest, a protein bar should not be part of your plan. Trust me when I tell you that I've yet to meet one pros that uses protein bars as part of their pre-contest diet plans; they stick to whole foods that are closest to their natural sources. If you're still not convinced, click HERE to read this!