Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Premier Protein Shake/Bar Review and Giveaway

I like to eat “real” food. When I say that I mean that I don’t like a lot of preservatives in my foods and I don’t like a lot of ingredients I cannot pronounce.  However, when you are training, it’s my opinion that there is a time and a place for “easy” foods when you need quick protein, carbs and/or calories. While I mostly stick to products that have simple and basic ingredients (there are fortunately many of these available these days), I have been known to leave a pre-packaged protein shake in my car for after a long run. I also have used protein bars as meal replacements or quick snacks. I know some of you are food purists and would never touch such things, but to each his own, right?

So, why is protein even important? Without getting overly scientific because I am just not that smart, let’s just say that it can help build and repair muscles. It can also help you to feel full longer. Some say it gives you more energy. Premier Protein prides itself on providing complete proteins in its products (complete proteins are also found in eggs, dairy, meat and soy) by the way of 18 essential amino acids. Read more HERE.

Now I bring to you a review of Premier Protein bars and shakes.

The Premier Protein High Protein Shake - I was sent choclate and vanilla flavors to try.

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Taste: Very similar to most pre-bottled protein shakes in that it was (to me) overly sweet and artificial tasting. The consistency was pleasing, however, and I found it creamy and smooth. This shake is not something I would drink for the taste, but more to just get the quick and easy 30 grams of protein after a long run or workout. I left one of these in my car and drank it immediately after my 20 mile run the other day. It went down smoothly, even when warm. The drink is light enough that it didn’t make me feel too bloated or full.

Pros:
  • Quick protein post workout
  • Low calories and fat content if that’s what you are looking for
  • Convenient. Doesn’t need to be refrigerated
  • Cost is decent if you buy in bulk and especially if it is meant as a meal replacement (about $1.50 per container on the website)
  • Great meal replacement product.
Cons:
  • Ingredient list – long and full of things I can’t pronounce. I prefer more simple and natural ingredients
  • Can be pricey if bought in 4 packs or as singles
  • Most athletes would look at this product as a recovery product, not meal replacement. That being the case, it does not boast the recommend 3:1 ratio of carb to protein for recovery. This product is more like 1:6.
The Premier Protein Crisp Crunch Protein Bar (I received the flavors peanut butter/caramel, chocolate mint and honey caramel)

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Taste: I am not a huge fan of the crunch bars (I like the nougaty ones better), but these were really good. The chocolate mint seriously tasted like a Thin Mint cookie.The bar is light, not filling and not overly sweet. The texture is very crunchy and kind of hard, especially when cold.

Pros:
  • Quick protein post workout
  • Low calories and not overly filling, but satisfying.
  • Good taste
  • Decent, although not optimal, carb to protein ratio for recovery (27 carbs, 15 g protein – almost a 2:1 ratio)
  • Great snack option item.
Cons:
  • Ingredient list – long and full of things I can’t pronounce (again)
  • Kind of expensive coming in at about $1.50 per bar before shipping (in a pack of 18). I think this is pricey for a “snack” type bar, as I can usually find others I like for about a $1.00.
Premier Protein Energy Bar (I received double chocolate crunch, yogurt peanut crunch and chocolate peanut butter).

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Taste: This is a hefty and heavy bar. Taste is decent and provides a dense, flavorful bar with a meaty and solid texture. Satisfying taste overall.

Pros:
  • Quick protein post workout
  • Good, satisfying taste.
  • Cost is decent if you buy in bulk (about $1.60 per bar on the website).
  • Good meal replacement option. Satisfying and filling.
Cons:
  • Ingredient list – long and full of things I can’t pronounce (again).
  • Not an optimal recovery ratio. It has 26 grams carbs, 30 grams protein (almost 1:1 ratio).
  • Seems to have a lot of sodium if you are using as meal replacement and not as a recovery of electrolytes
GIVEAWAY

Want to try a LARGE sample pack of these products? I have FIVE packs to give away. Each will include:

  • 4 Premier Protein shakes: 2 shakes in each flavor (chocolate and vanilla)
  • 3 Premier Protein meal replacement bars: 1 bar in each flavor (Chocolate Peanut Butter, Double Chocolate Crunch and Yogurt Peanut Butter Crunch)
  • 3 Premier Protein Crisp bars: 1 bar in each flavor (Chocolate Mint, Honey Caramel and Peanut Butter Caramel)
  • Premier Protein nylon bag
This giveaway is open only to U.S. residents. Enter below (chance to submit 3 entries). Giveaway runs through April 30:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

SUAR

Fine Print: The sample pack provided to me as well as the 5 giveaway packs were provided free of charge from Premier Protein. I was sent my sample pack in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

134 comments:

  1. I'm always looking for new protein shakes to try...these look good!

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  2. I'm always freaked out by new protein products so it would be nice to not have to spend a fortune to figure out if I like this or not!

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  3. I think the thin mint reference made me hungry,

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  4. I prefer Nutrasumma Natural/organic Pea Protein shakes and Honey Stinger Waffles. I too like a short list of ingredients that I can pronounce and prefer natural/organic.
    -Marty B

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  5. I like the old-school Powerbars, chocolate or peanutbutter/chocolate!

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  6. I'm a vegetarian runner always in need of (hopefully yummy) protein

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  7. For pre-bottled protein shakes, I love Core Power's strawberry banana light!

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  8. Powerbars are one of the few bars that I haven't tried and I'm in training this summer so I could use the protein!

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  9. I haven't tried any so I would love to try these!

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  10. I don't have a favorite protein bar. I really haven't tried many because I'm not sure which kind are good.

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  11. I am pretty hooked on Zone double dark chocolate protein bars.

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  12. I don't have a flavor favorite for shakes as long as it tastes good after a long run. The bars - I think I prefer peanut butter - they tend to have a good consistency and I think of peanut butter as additional protein (hopefully).

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  14. I prefer the chocolate muscle milk drinks.

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  15. I like plain old chocolate milk!

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  16. I love quest bars! I just started half ironman training and I am on the lookout for other options!

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  17. I'm really into Quest bars right now and Vega One All In One bars. They are da baum!

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  18. Always looking for a good protein shake-currently bought the Whey Chocolate from Costco. Would like to try this one--

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  19. They sale this brand at some costco's. Love it, the only protein shake I can tolerate.

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  20. Chocolate mint is my favorite flavor. Yummmm....

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  21. Also, the only protein bars I've ever bought were the Luna protein ones in chocolate chip cookie dough flavor. Although I did go on a Clif kick for awhile, I don't think those are "protein" bars.

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  22. I like having a protein shake or bar on hand after a long run, just in case it takes me a while to get a proper meal. I do like the fact that these products are low in sugar.

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  23. Always trying to find new protein shakes/bars to try. Thanks for the chance!

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  24. I'm still trying to work out the kinks in my protein regimen, especially now that I've started lifting in addition to running. Thanks for the review!

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  25. I love the premier protein shakes. Great for recovery after high intensity training! My kids like them for snacks as well!!

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  26. I am a huge fan of Clif protein builder bars after a good workout.

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  27. Actually, my fiance bakes his own protein bars. He uses protein powder, peanut butter, oatmeal, almond flour, and a few other natural ingredients. Pretty tasty!

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  28. So don't you have a night stand full of candy and refuel with donuts?!?!

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    Replies
    1. YES! I should do a candy/donut giveaway. The perfect pre and post fuel options.

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  29. I've Never Tried These Before But Am Always Looking For New Protein Sources!

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  31. I don't have a favorite yet, I'm still working my way around and trying different things!

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  32. I do not have a favorite but do like Nature Valley Protein Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate bars, only 10 grams of protein but good. Also the old stand by after a long run Chocolate milk YUM.

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  33. I'm a total chocoholic, so I love any kind of chocolate protein bar!

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  34. Does it have a funny taste?? I've had some whey stuff that does. I love chocolate though! Who doesn't!!

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  36. I have heard about Premier Protein, but have never tried it, would love to though since I'm still on a quest to find the perfect protein shake...

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  37. Im in the middle of my 1/2 plan right now, and moving into training for my first full in September and was just thinking about what I needed to do to increase my fuel/recovery intake stuff. Would LOVE to try some stuff :)

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  38. I rarely eat protein bars because I'm a poor teacher but do enjoy Zone Perfect chocolate chip or peanut butter cookie dough flavors...only if they're freezing cold, though! BTW-I ran my first trail half marathon last weekend and I would like to tip my hat to you...This girl is not hardcore enough for trail running. I may have fallen twice whilst checking out other runners' shoes...

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  39. I'm a fan of protein bars. I love ways to get some extra protein after a workout. And they are usually better than a Snickers bar! I like any one that pairs chocolate and peanut butter!

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  40. I try to keep protein bars in my bag....you never know when you might need a quick pic-me-up

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  41. Don't really have a favorite protein bar. I've had Luna and Clif bars from time to time, but I'd like to give Premier Protein products a try.

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  42. I'm evaluating all my nutritional needs since I've missed my Boston Qualifying time 2X in the last 2 months by a few minutes. Would love to try these.

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  43. I like protein bars with a mix of chocolate and peanut butter. Calories right around 200-ish and protein at least 12 grams. shakes I typically go for chocolate or dark chocolate flavors with less than 150 calories and at least 15 grams of protein. would love to try these.

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  44. I like Clif Bars because I like chocolate!! I'd love to try something new - thanks for the chance to win!!

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  45. I drink few protein shakes throughout the day but I've never bought a pre-bottled one. I would definitely put few in my car. How long do they last unopened?

    Regarding protein bars - I am quite skeptical. They are often full with sugars and fats but still they are way better than a snickers bar. I personally prefer a protein shake and a handful of raw nuts.

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  46. I'm not a protein bar/shake user as of now, but am researching the best options as I'm beginning to train for my first half marathon. I'm loving all the suggestions on this post though!

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  47. I make my own fruit and nut bars with added hemp protein powder - my favorite recovery food. :)

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  48. I focus on whole foods as well but since my diet is so limited, I will include good quality protein shakes and snack on bars.

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  49. Tried Choc Premier Protein dring after my 17 miler last week and felt lass sick that usual. Would like to try the bars. The bar I usually have after a long run is Larabar Uber Cherry Cobbler. It has 6 ingredients and I have heard of all of them.

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  50. These have been all the rage with the highschool basketball team and my 11 year old is dying to try them! I currently use Endurox and then 'real food' to recover but I'm always looking for new things.

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  51. I keep hearing about Quest bars but I also hear you have to bake them?? That seems like a ton of work. I need something idiot-proof!

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  52. I usually use Clif Builder bars, because they taste like Thin Mints. I swear the Girl Scouts should just market a protein bar. I'd buy a million of those.

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  53. I like Clif Bars, as well, but would love to try these.

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  54. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  55. I'd love to try them. I've been using Syntha 6 protein powder. The mochachino is yummy. I also like the Bolthouse Farms coffee proteinplus drink for premade stuff.

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  56. the chocolate premier protein shakes are pretty delish! My 6-year old will drink when i can't get him to eat.

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  57. I would love to try this product.
    Thanks for the chance!

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  58. Melissa Mauro HinemanApril 24, 2013 at 8:32 AM

    Ick -- these all have Sugar Alcohols -- a HUGE no no in my book. Cause stomach upset and other ick side effects. I stick with RISE bars -- the protein bars have just 5 ingredients, nothing you can't pronounce, no sugar alcohols, and the fats come from good fats (nuts).

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  60. My favorite protein bars are chocolate chip coconut Clif bars and my favorite go-to recovery protein concoction is a chocolate Carnation Instant Breakfast mixed with vanilla protein powder in unsweetened almond coconut milk. SO delicious!

    Thanks for the chance to win!

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  61. usually I don't use pre-made items, but I do like Unjury protein powder to make my own.

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  62. I generally prefer the more natural products as well, but sometimes these sort of things are the best option available in a hurry. I'd love to win and try everything!

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  63. I like Larabars. I recognize every single ingredient and they are tasty - especially the Ueberbars. I'm always open to trying something new though.

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  64. I like the Myoplex bars and shakes. I like the taste of them both but am always looking for something new.

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  65. Oh, I love trying new products! I am not good at figuring out what works well. I do tend to prefer Lara Bars for protein; not as much protein as a lot of the real "protein bars," but all natural ingredients.

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  66. Wow, that's a huge pack of stuff to try! I have tried lots of different things, but currently not using any of them.

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  67. I use Hammer Recoverite after a long run! Throw it in the blender with milk and a frozen banana, and it really hits the spot!

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  68. I would love to try these for a punch of protein.

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  69. I like the fitmixer protein shakes. I haven't found a bar that I'm totally in love with yet!

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  70. Always looking for something good and convenient to grab when I come in from a long run and jump right into "mom duty".

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  71. I'm stuck on Powerbars and Cliff Bars with an ever-changing decision based on taste, price and ingredients. Shakes: I love my homemade peanut butter and banana shakes. I haven't tried any others.

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  72. Quest Protein Bars are very tasty and these look delicious as well and would be great and convenient after working out!

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  73. My Favorite protein snack is Bolthouse Farms Blended Coffee Protein Plus. It has 30 g protein and COFFEE ! How can you lose?

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  74. I actually like the Nature Valley protein bars, though they only have 10g of protein, so I would love to try these :-)

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  75. Thank you for the review! It's hard to know what to buy with so many choices out there. :)

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  77. Clif Bars are my FAVORITE for pre-runs, and I really like the Optimum Gold Standard Whey--easy to digest and palatable :).

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  78. I really like the Rickland Orchard peanut butter dark chocolate Greek yogurt bars, though they only have 10 grams of protein. I also like powerbar's chocolate peanut butter harvest energy bars. As for protein shakes, Odwalla's chocolate protein monster is a little high calorie but it tastes just like a brownie.

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  79. I like KIND Bars and ProBars the best and enjoy vanilla and strawberry protein shakes the most too!
    Thank you!

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  80. This prize pack would be fabulous...especially since today I was just wondering whether or not I eat enough protein...
    I use Larabars while running and as snacks.

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  81. I love muscle milk because it doesn't have the grainy taste

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  82. I love good old-fashioned Cliff bars :)

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  83. I really like the premier chocolate shakes and was surprised my husband liked it as well. Sometimes I blend it with ice and a banana for extra carbs. :)

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  84. I eat a lot of Larabars, but that shake sounds tasty!

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  85. Luna and Larabars are both my favorites and would love to try the Premier Protein Shakes!
    -Georgiana

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  86. I love bars. Normally very lazy in the food making department so they work well for me. Thanks for posting the giveaway!

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  87. I would really be interested in how the Chocolate Peanut Butter one tastes :-)

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  88. Have never tried them, but they look pretty good!

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  89. I've never tried these, but protein bars are perfect for my busy life!

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  90. I usually but the Fiber One Protein bars.

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  91. Please, please, please.

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  92. I just starting drinking ahakes with almond milk/water and Growing Naturals chocolate rice protein powder, this is the only powder I've tried and liked.

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  93. I have just started adding a good bit of protein to my diet.. I had looked it up and saw that I needed 95g and I starting wondering if that was why I didn't have energy. So far I've felt much better adding protein to my diet and trying to get back on the "running" wagon (I do more of a slow/fast jog and I am doing the HIIT).. Not sure how healthy the pure protein bars are and they are a little pricey but they have a lot less sugar then most and at 31g of Protein it's a great snack that I know is helping me reach my protein goal-- I am going to try adding protein to my shakes as well so I am glad to see this review (I don't want a bunch of artificial ingredients) -- Have you heard of Perfect Fit protein? I'm wanting to try and the girls at tone it up are promoting it.

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  94. Thanks for the review. I'm always looking for something that is protein packed. Especially a treat that I could carry to and form the job and gym. I like that the Premier Protein High Protein Shake can be used as part of your recovery.

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  95. I'd love to try CRISP Chocolate Mint Bar and the strawberry shake from premier protein. Thank you for the review and the giveaway.

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  96. I'd love to try these! I am fairly new to long distance running and haven't had the opportunity to try too many protein shakes/bars. I have tried the Pure Protein Frosty Chocolate prepackaged protein shakes, and normally eat either Luna Protein bars or Pure Protein ones. Thanks for the giveaway and for your blog posts!

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  97. Just realized yesterday that I've eaten all of the various granola bars and stuff that I'd picked up from the last expo. Need to replenish that pocket in my running gear bag so I'd love to win!

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  98. I love trying new protein bars! I still haven't found any drinks I like yet.

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  99. I have tried very few items marketed towards runners/athletes. I would love to try these!

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  100. Always looking for quick but healthy (ish) options after a workout :-)

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  101. eclairre(AT)ymail(DOT)com zoneperfect & balance bars cause they taste like chocolate bars hehe

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  102. Premier Protein seems nice. On my to-do list :)

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  103. Would love to win this because Ihave been trying to add protein to my diet

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  104. I have never tried protein shakes, but I tend to go for dessert-type bars instead of fruity ones. No brand in particular, but if it has chocolate in it, chances are high its the one I choose!

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  105. I like Pure Protein shakes, but would love to try something new!

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  106. I usually use chocolate milk as a recovery drink but then have a hard time eating food to replace more protein carbs. Maybe these shakes would help.

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  107. These sound awesome! Right now i love vega's vanilla almondilla protein powder for shakes and sometimes i pick up bars- gnu, clif builder bars, the simply bar and think thin are a few i have tried
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  110. Has any one had these on the south beach diet? I really like them a lot, but I am now on South Beach Diet.

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  112. So uh, this raffle still up? 😆

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  114. Thanks for sharing this nice review post. I want to add some Pors about this protein powder. Such as-

    1. Reduced lactose and fat content
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    4. No artificial sweeteners or additives
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  116. Thanks for good review. I am using myoplex milkshake as meal replacement, here is details http://weightlosstop.com/myoplex_lite_shake_review.php and it works really good. I didn't try their bars, but i think it should be well too.

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