+++ Advertisement: This post was created in cooperation with HEJ. Thank you for the products! +++
HEJ | A new perspective on nutritional supplements – I've largely ignored the topic of sports nutrition until now. I know a little about it, but I've never really delved into it in detail. Probably because the topic even suffers from a somewhat negative image in this country. Then HEJ approached me.
HEJ is a start-up founded by two athletic guys – Julius and Jannik. With their own product line, they aim to provide modern sports nutrition and demonstrate that transparency and natural ingredients are paramount in their HEJ products, proving that contemporary sports nutrition – far removed from the overly masculine packaging prevalent today – is possible. "Enough with the muscle-building steroids!" they thought, and with their product range, they've set new standards. The products are already trending. But what exactly is behind them?
The idea behind HEJ products
Founder Julis W. describes it this way: „The steadily growing health consciousness, coupled with the trend towards mass participation in fitness, simply didn't fit with the rather outdated range of suppliers in Germany. It was clear that a modern shop was needed – inspired by Scandinavian and Dutch consumer behavior.“ And so, the online portal for nutritional supplements and fitness products, which emerged from their joint venture „Protein-Projekt,“ continues to grow steadily. They received more and more inquiries from sports and fitness enthusiasts, as well as professionals in the sports industry. They quickly became convinced that they should launch their own product line – HEJ products – and demonstrate that a healthier and more transparent approach could create new ways of thinking about sports nutrition.
Well… opinions on dietary supplements vary widely. Transparency regarding ingredients doesn't seem nearly as important as aggressive advertising slogans and images of muscular men, six-pack abs, and sweaty skin on product packaging. HEJ aims to demonstrate with its product line that consuming these supplements can actually improve physical performance and lead to a healthier lifestyle. That's why transparency regarding ingredients, origin, and naturalness, as well as a light and airy design, are so important to the two founders of all HEJ products.
The HEJ product range: powders, bars, chia seeds
HEJ's product range includes a high-energy protein bar with extremely low sugar content yet great taste, two different types of protein powder made from pure whey protein concentrate, and black chia seeds. The range will certainly be expanded, but for the HEJ brand launch, these products are intended to impress first. And they did impress me. I tested the range, bit into the bars, and mixed the omega-3-rich chia seeds into my muesli. All products are manufactured in Germany or the Netherlands. The entire HEJ range is formulated according to the latest nutritional science and processed gently. Environmental responsibility is also a priority – the packaging is recyclable.
The HEJ Protein Bar – Bars A 60-gram bar costs €1.99. Not really that much more expensive than a regular snack bar from the supermarket, but significantly better in its effect. The HEJ bar – even after my own test – really does help overcome afternoon energy slumps, is satisfying, and is also the perfect snack between meals. The healthy milk proteins and the aforementioned very low sugar content of just 2.7 grams per bar provide the body with long-lasting, "healthy" energy. With more than 20 grams of plant-based fiber and 19 grams of protein, the HEJ bar is THE ultimate energy source. Palm oil, gluten, or syrup are not to be found here – these delicious, intensely flavorful chocolate and almond bars contain a mere 185 kcal.
The HEJ Performance Whey Protein – Powder I haven't personally tested the (900 grams/€24.79) version, so I can only report on it. Both powder varieties (chocolate or vanilla) are based on a pure formula and contain only the essential ingredients, with a detailed ingredient list on the packaging. Maximum transparency and quality, no unnecessary fillers or artificial colors, and therefore the basis for perfect shakes and a powerful start to the day – exactly what the body needs after a workout.
The Hey Superfood Chia Seeds I treated myself to some (400g/€9.90) from Bolivia. These little seeds are all the rage these days and are known as a plant-based source of essential omega-3 fatty acids. Besides their high fiber content, they also boast calcium, iron, and high-quality protein. I sprinkled the seeds on my muesli and also simply ate them with a spoonful of natural yogurt. A healthy and delicious treat.
For me, HEJ products are fantastic. While I'm not a particularly active athlete, I still recognized their benefits during the product test. After eating the bars, I felt energized and refreshed, but not stuffed or like I'd indulged in an unhealthy bar made of sugar and sticky chocolate. HEJ bars are intentionally a bit difficult to chew and bite, but that's what makes them so satisfying. Chia seeds are now a staple in my breakfast routine. Give them a try!. Here There's more on that.
Leave a Reply