If you believe that snacking on high protein breakfast bars was a shortcut to bulging biceps or a skinny waistline, think again.

The last National Nutrition Survey found that the average man is getting 109g of protein per day and women 74g from their diets which is more than enough for your normally active, average weight man (80kg) or woman (65kg). Even the protein needs of elite athletes can usually be taken care of by eating a varied whole food diet that focuses on nutrient-rich sources of protein.

Many protein-rich snacks can be surplus to your dietary protein needs and, if you don’t burn off the calories, like any other excess calories, they can be stored as body fat. it has been found that the average gym-goer or weekend sports player doesn’t require any additional protein supplements — the average person, if they are eating a healthy, whole food diet, already gets plenty of protein, based on data from the last National Nutrition Survey.

High protein snacks only benefit elite athletes who undertake heavy training programs or endurance events — and even they can probably get enough protein from a varied diet. For the rest of us these attractively marketed bars and drinks have almost no benefit apart from burning a hole in your purse or wallet.

Granted, a high protein breakfast bar can be a better option nutritionally than a chocolate bar but, like chocolate, indulge in them occasionally.