You might’ve seen the headlines flying around:
“Protein bars cause cancer, diarrhea, early death…”
Yep, from a Joe Wicks protein bar…
Trying to raise awareness about processed foods..
And honestly… I wasn’t going to say anything.
But when big names throw around scary claims without context, it just confuses people even more.
The fact Channel 4 and the media have just gone with it without consulting Dietitians, Nutritionists, researchers and questioning where he is getting these claims from is baffling…
And I guess it reminded me of how important my education actually was (sometimes I play it down). But being able to critically analyse research and how it is done to come to conclusions is a skill (something I spent 7 years doing at Loughborough University and Oxford Brookes studying sport and human nutrition)…
Here’s the reality
Protein bars and shakes can be useful tools — not magic, not poison — just tools to help you hit your goals when used in context.
- Rushing between work and home? Grab one instead of skipping a meal.
- Struggling to hit your protein goal? A shake can help.
- Craving something sweet? A bar can actually stop you from demolishing the biscuit tin.
It’s context and asking the question:
“What’s the alternative? What would I have instead?”
^ That will let you know what is the better choice.
Sure, if you are living off of protein bars? Probably not a great thing. But you knew that already, right?
And I’m happy for people to change their mind on things. That is great, but Joe Wicks only recently RECOMMENDED protein bars and shakes, and has is OWN supplement range of protein shakes and bars…
^^ confusing, right?
But the problem isn’t protein bars or Joe Wicks (he seems nice and has changed many peoples lives in a positive way which is great, but seems to be misled by someone…).
It’s the “all or nothing” mindset that makes us panic and throw out something that could actually help.
You could overdo anything — even water can be dangerous in excess.
But does that mean water’s bad for you? Of course not
So before worrying about whether your protein bar is plotting against you…
Focus on what really matters:
- Getting consistent with your meals
- Moving your body regularly
- Building small, sustainable habits that actually fit your life
That’s exactly what we do in the 28 Day Kickstart at Fruci Fit.
It’s all about finding what works for you — whether that’s a home session, a studio workout, or just feeling more in control of your food again.
If you want to feel fitter, stronger, and more confident (without giving up your protein bar or glass of vino haha yes, I did just say that )
Message me with “Marlborough”, “Devizes”, or “Chippenham”
and I’ll send you all the details for our next 28 Day Kickstart.
For women 40+, 50+, 60+, and 70+ who pretty much know what to do but need the plan and accountability to do it.
Matt