Premier Nutrition's FAQ's


We have organized our FAQ's into 6 easy categories. Please browse through all of them, or click the link below to jump right to a particular topic.

Carbohydrates
Protein
Ingredients
Amino Acids
Miscellaneous
Rocket Shot

 

CARBOHYDRATE Q&A'S

Q: What is included in the carbohydrate count?
A: Carbohydrates are comprised of several sub-groups, which include dietary fiber, sugar, and sugar alcohol.

Q. I’m on a low carbohydrate diet should I count the sugar alcohols as carbohydrates?
A. When you are on a low carbohydrate diet you are trying to keep your insulin levels stable by refraining from ingesting a significant amount of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates such as sugar alcohols and fiber don’t have a significant affect on insulin levels and therefore don’t have to be counted when you are on a low carbohydrate diet.

Q: Why is it important to understand the differences in carbohydrates?
It is important to understand the differences in carbohydrates, since sugar alcohols and other low glycemic ingredients have a minimal effect on blood sugar levels. Premier Nutrition has always used sugar alcohols in place of sugar to create bars that are great tasting and won't affect your body's chemistry the same way that sugars and starches do.

Q: Are your bars low glycemic?
A: Most of our bars are considered low glycemic and have a minimal effect on blood sugar levels.

Q: What are sugar alcohols?
A: Sugar alcohols are carbohydrate derivatives of sugar, which are commonly used to sweeten products like chewing gum, and more recently, food bars. Popular sugar alcohols include: glycerol, maltitol, xylitol, sorbitol, and mannitol. Sugar alcohols do not have 4 calories per gram, like other carbohydrates. They range from 2.2 to 4.32 calories per gram. However, sugar alcohols, have a minimal impact on blood-sugar levels. Currently, the FDA has not focused on these important biochemical differences and treats all carbohydrates alike.

Q: What is sucralose and it's effects on your body?
A: Sucralose is an artificial sweetener manufactured from sucrose. It is 400 times sweeter than table sugar and is stable when subjected to extreme heat or cold. Sucralose is not metabolized by your body so it has no caloric content. Sucralose also has no effect on insulin secretion and is safe for diabetics.

Q: I'm a diabetic will sugar alcohols affect my insulin levels?
A: Sugar alcohols are digested differently than other carbohydrates and therefore don’t increase your blood sugar levels like simple sugar. You should always check with your primary physician before taking anything you are not sure of.

Q: What is the difference between hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia?
A: Hyperglycemia is when there is too much glucose in the blood. People with diabetes can get hyperglycemia and must take insulin to lower their glucose levels. Hypoglycemia is when the blood sugar levels fall too low. Usually resulting in hunger, weakness, sweating, and feeling light headed. Hypoglycemia can also result in headaches and fainting spells, and is a common cause of feeling disoriented.

Q: What is Glycerine?
A: Glycerine (aka glycerol) is an alcohol derived compound that is three carbons long and serves as a backbone for triglycerides. Glycerine is used to give bars a moist, creamy texture. Glycerine contains 4.32 calories per gram.

Q: What is Sorbitol?
A: Sorbitol is a sugar alcohol and a derivative of glucose. It's absorbed in the small intestines. It may delay the onset of hunger and is used in weight reducing diets. Sorbitol is mainly used as a sweetener but less likely to promote tooth decay over sucrose.

Q: What is Malitol?
A: Malitol is a sugar alcohol derived from Maltose. It's mainly used for candy or bar coating.

 

PROTEIN Q&A'S

Q: Why do the Odyssey and Premier Protein Bars offer higher quality protein than other bars on the market?
These Odyssey and Premier Protein bars have 30 grams of protein per bar, which provides 60% of the Recommended Daily Value for protein. That's almost twice as much as other leading protein bars.

Q: Which of your products are the best source of high protein?
The Odyssey and Premier Protein bars have 30 grams of protein per bar. Our special protein blend contains only high quality proteins, such as Whey and Soy. The Odyssey and Premier Protein bars are a great tasting way to add protein to your diet.

Q: What is soy protein isolate and why do you add it to the bars?
A: Soy protein is a vegetarian protein made from soy flour or soybeans. This protein has been filtered to separate it from much of the carbohydrates and fats that usually accompany it. Soy is high in calcium, iron, and isoflavones which help fight off cancer.

Q: What is calcium caseinate?
A: Calcium caseinate is a protein derived from cow's milk. It can also be used for texture in custard, ice cream, and sherbet.

Q: Do you use GMO soybeans in your soy protein?
A: No.


INGREDIENT Q&A'S

Q: Are your nutritional bars dairy free?
A: Yes, the Organic Bars are dairy free, but our other bars contain milk proteins.

Q: What is fractionated palm kernel oil and why do we use it?
A: Fractionated palm kernel oil was used to eliminate any trans fatty acids in the bars. The palm kernel oil in the bars is found primarily in the coatings. To have a coating be "solid" at room temperature, the fat must be either hydrogenated (which contains trans fat) or fractionated (which is higher in saturated fat). Chocolate which neither hydrogenated or fractionated is liquid at room temperature, much like oil compared to margarine.

Q: What does Lecithin do in your body?
A: Lecithin functions as an emulsifier of fat and prevents the accumulation of fat within the artery walls.

Q: What does dextrose do for you?
A: Dextrose provides glucose for the body.

Q: How much Potassium is in your Odyssey Bars?
A: The Potassium content varies from each bar flavor. Chocolate Coconut Almond is 150mg; Chocolate Peanut Butter is 210mg; Caramel Nut is 150mg.

Q: How much caffeine is in your Bars?
A: The caffeine content varies from each bar.

Odyssey bars: Chocolate Coconut Almond is 7.28mg; Chocolate Peanut Butter is ?mg; Caramel Nut is 5.01mg and Rocky Road is 7.68mg.

Premier Protein bars: Choc Peanut Butter is 1.2mg; Double Choc Crunch is 6.1mg; and Yogurt Peanut Crunch is 0mg.

Q: How much lactose is in your Bars?
A: The Organic bars and Odyssey bars contain no lactose.
The Premier Protein bars contain between 1.5 - 2.2 mg of lactose per 72g serving.

Q: What is monoglyceride and what purpose does it serve in the bars?
A: Monoglyceride is a compound in which one fatty acid group is esterified to the trialcohol glycerol. It helps to achieve the desired texture and consistency in the bars. The monoglycerides in these bars come from sunflower oil and do not contain wheat derivatives.

Q: What are fructooligosaccharides or FOS?
A: Fructooligosaccharides or commonly known as FOS are carbohydrate polymers built up by repeated condensations of monosaccharides which our bodies are unable to digest.

Q: Are any of your ingredients animal based?
A: Yes. Glycerine & hydrolyzed gelatin are animal based and are commonly used in nutrition bars.

Q: Where does the gelatin come from in your nutrition bars?
A: The gelatin in our bars come from a bovine source, which is not pig or pork.

Q: What is hydrolyzed gelatin?
A: Hydrolyzed gelatin is a colorless and tasteless protein from animals. It's used as a food thickener and stabilizer.

Q: What is malic acid and why do we use it in the bars?
A: Malic Acid is a chelating agent added to the bars to prevent discoloration and any flavor changes.

Q: What are tocopherols?
A: Tocopherols are found in Vitamin E and serve as an antioxidant for your body fighting off free radicals.

Q: What is sodium citrate?
A: Sodium Citrate is a synthesized substance that is used as an emulsifier and buffer for the fruit in the bars.

Q: What is MSG and do your bars contain any?
A: MSG is monosodium glutamate and is used as a food additive to enhance flavor. There is no MSG in our nutrition bars as some people have adverse reactions to it such as burning sensation, flushing, and headaches.

Q: Why do you use potassium sorbate in the bars?
A: Potassium sorbate is used to help prevent the bars from spoiling or going bad.

Q: What is canola oil?
A: Canola oil is a vegetable oil produced from the rapeseed. It contains monounsaturated fats which are less likely to cause heart disease.

Q: What is pectin?
A: Pectin is fiber or polysaccharide found in apples and citrus fruits. It's used to thicken jelly as well as alter the texture and consistency of the bars. It may also be used to aid in digestion.

Q: What is licorice root?
A: Licorice root is the root of Anise (licorice) plant, which can be considered
an herb or a spice. It is commonly used in cooking and teas, sold in various forms and grows naturally in the wild.


MISCELLANEOUS Q&A'S

Q: When should I use Premier Nutrition's products to supplement my diet?
A: Any of Premier Nutrition's bars are great before and after workouts, meal on the go, endurance sports, or anytime you're looking for a healthy snack or meal replacement, and are unable to eat a regular meal.

Q: Do your bars contain any saccharin or aspartame?
A: No, our bars never had any saccharin or aspartame in them.

Q: Do your bars contain any artificial sweeteners?
A: Yes, all our bars contain Sucralose.

Q: Are your bars kosher?
A: Yes, the Premier Organic Bar is Kosher


AMINO ACIDS Q&A'S

Q: What are essential amino acids?
A: Essential amino acids are those that cannot be synthesized by the body at a rate sufficient to meet the needs for growth and maintenance. It is essential that these amino acids be provided in the diet.

Q: What are essential amino acids?
A: Essential amino acids are those that cannot be synthesized by the body at a rate sufficient to meet the needs for growth and maintenance. It is essential that these amino acids be provided in the diet. Here's a list of the eight essential amino acids:

TRYPTOPHAN (Essential Amino Acid)
Acts as a natural relaxant and helps relieve insomnia by inducing normal sleep. Helps reduces anxiety & depression; as well used in the treatment of migraine headaches. Used to help the immune system; reduce the risk of artery & heart spasms; and works with Lysine in reducing cholesterol levels.

LYSINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Insures the adequate absorption of calcium and helps form collagen (which makes up bone cartilage & connective tissues.) Used in the production of antibodies, hormones & enzymes. Recent studies have shown that Lysine may be effective against herpes by improving the balance of nutrients that reduce viral growth. A deficiency may result in tiredness, inability to concentrate, irritability, bloodshot eyes, retarded growth, hair loss, anemia & reproductive problems.

METHIONINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Is a principle supplier of sulfur, which prevents disorders of the hair, skin and nails. Helps lower cholesterol levels by increasing the liver's production of lecithin as well as reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys. Also a natural chelating agent for heavy metals; regulates the formation of ammonia and creates ammonia-free urine which reduces bladder irritation; influences hair follicles and promotes hair growth.

PHENYLALAINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Used by the brain to produce Norepinephrine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells and the brain; keeps you awake & alert; reduces hunger pains; functions as an antidepressant and helps improve memory.

THREONINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Is an important constituent of collagen, Elastin, and enamel protein; helps prevents fat build-up in the liver; helps the digestive and intestinal tracts function more smoothly; assists metabolism and assimilation.

VALINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Promotes mental vigor, muscle coordination and calm emotions.

LEUCINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Provides ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.

ISOLEUCINE (Essential Amino Acid)
Provides ingredients for the manufacturing of other essential biochemical components in the body, some of which are utilized for the production of energy, stimulants to the upper brain and helping you to be more alert.

Q: What are non-essential amino acids?
A: Non-essential amino acids are the ones that the body can make on it's own from other compounds. Here's a list of the 11 non-essential amino acids:

ARGININE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Studies have shown that is has improved immune responses to bacteria, viruses & tumor cells; promotes wound healing and regeneration of the liver; causes the release of growth hormones; considered crucial for optimal muscle growth and tissue repair.

TYROSINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Transmits nerve impulses to the brain; helps overcome depression; Improves memory; increases mental alertness; promotes the healthy functioning of the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands.

GLYCINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Helps trigger the release of oxygen to the energy requiring cell-making process; Important in the manufacturing of hormones responsible for a strong immune system.

SERINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
A storage source of glucose by the liver and muscles; helps strengthen the immune system by providing antibodies; synthesizes fatty acid sheath around nerve fibers.

GLUTAMIC ACID (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Considered to be nature's "Brain food" by improving mental capacities; helps speed the healing of ulcers; gives a "lift" from fatigue; helps control alcoholism, schizophrenia and the craving for sugar.

ASPARTIC ACID (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Aids in the expulsion of harmful ammonia from the body. When ammonia enters the circulatory system it acts as a highly toxic substance which can be harmful to the central nervous system. Recent studies have shown that Aspartic Acid may increase resistance to fatigue and increase endurance.

TAURINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Helps stabilize the excitability of membranes which is very important in the control of epileptic seizures. Taurine and sulfur are considered to be factors necessary for the control of many biochemical changes that take place in the aging process; aids in the clearing of free radical wastes.

CYSTINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Functions as an antioxidant and is a powerful aid to the body in protecting against radiation and pollution. It can help slow down the aging process, deactivate free radicals, neutralize toxins; aids in protein synthesis and presents cellular change. It is necessary for the formation of the skin, which aids in the recovery from burns and surgical operations. Hair and skin are made up 10-14% Cystine.

HISTIDINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Is found abundantly in hemoglobin; has been used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, allergic diseases, ulcers & anemia. A deficiency can cause poor hearing.

PROLINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Is extremely important for the proper functioning of joints and tendons; also helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles.

ALANINE (Non-Essential Amino Acid)
Is an important source of energy for muscle tissue, the brain and central nervous system; strengthens the immune system by producing antibodies; helps in the metabolism of sugars and organic acids.



ROCKET SHOT Q&A'S

Q: What is Rocket Shot?
A: The Rocket Shot is an energy shot with a very unique delivery system. Its concentrated formula provides instant energy by delivering a special blend of B Vitamins, L-Taurine, Inositol and Caffeine.

Q: What is the Rocket Shot used for?
A: The Rocket Shot can be used any time you need an extra little boost of energy. It is perfect before a workout, intense endurance activity or any time you are feeling tired.

Q. How many mgs of caffeine are in a Rocket Shot?
A: 50mg

Q: What is L-Taurine?
A: Taurine is an abundant amino found in the central nervous system, skeletal muscle, and heart. It's found in meat but not in vegetables. Taurine has recently been reported to prevent cataracts and certain forms of heart disease. It also appears to have some antioxidant and detoxifying activity. Taurine aids the movement of potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium in and out of cells and thus helps generate nerve impulses.

Q: What is Inositol?
A: Inositol is part of the B vitamin complex found in lecithin, it acts as a lipotropic agent in the body, helping to emulsify fats. It is stored in the body, but high amounts of caffeine can deplete these stores. Inositol is found in whole, unprocessed grains and citrus. As a mild lipotropic agent it is commonly used by overweight people to help with weight loss, and it may help in redistributing body fat.

Q: What is Niacin?
A: Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as vitamin B-3. It helps the body produce energy by aiding in the synthesis of fat and cholesterol.