Ask Amy, RD

Protein Bars?   Protein bars, if really needed, can act as a meal replacement in a bind. However most of them tend to have higher calorie and carbohydrate content. If they are frequently used as a snack, make sure you’re watching your daily calorie and carbohydrate intake to assure you’re not exceeding. I highly recommend getting your protein from the food itself. Aim for lean proteins coming from:
  ~Lean Meats: chicken, turkey, fish, and beef that’s 95 % lean ~Soy: edamame (soy beans), veggie burgers, tofu ~Dairy: non fat or low fat cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Ricotta cheese, and non fat milk

Try to use protein bars sparingly.  If you're looking to boost protein between meals, opt instead for a low calorie/low carbohydrate protein drink or consider smaller protein snack such as reduced fat mozzarella string cheese.

-Amy Ingols, RD

Completely awesome questions Carmelita!

Would like to know those answers too - esp. since I just spent $$$ on the Biotin, Zinc, Selenium to prevent the hair loss!!

Interested in the answers to these. Thinking about probiotics and additional vitamins.

I'll address the questions in order...

Alcohol:  You want to avoid carbonated bevereges in general.  Know that with alcohol comes calories (7 cal/gram) and sugar.  A glass of wine is ~90 calories.  Also, a little bit can go a long way so be careful with your consumption.

Carbs: I would focus on total carbs daily

Probiotics:  I don't think they are necessary for everyone.  If your bowels are regular, then I see no need for them.

Supplements: You can start those additional supplements right away. 

Hair Loss: The number one thing is to make sure you're getting your protein in.  Biotin helps with hair growth, though unfortunately some hair loss/thinning is going to be inevitable.  It will regrow however.

Is there a brand of bar that is best for those in-a-pinch situations?

The Atkin's ones seem to be 15-20 grams of carb with only 10 grams of protein (not the best choice but okay in a pinch).  Better choices may be the Pure Protein Bar is 13 g carb with 30 g protein.  Healthwise is also a good product and they are generally only 150 calories, 12 g carb, and 15 g protein so they are a bit lighter. 

I really like the Atkins.  I went to Walmart for the first time last night and they had at least a DOZEN varieties.  I went nuts.
I'm heading for son's in the morning.  He is living in Canada and I didn't know what they have/don't have that I like.  I'm packing some protein drinks too.