A lot of us eat protein bars. They can be great in a pinch as an on-the-go food, but it can be damn near overwhelming picking one. Tons of options and clever/deceptive food marketing can make it tough to figure out which ones are best for you. Solution: you've got to look past the marketing and learn what to look for in a healthy protein bar.
Here are some things to consider:
Calories
Protein bars are small and won’t likely fill you up. It’ll just scratch the itch. Consider that before choosing a bar with a ton of calories. Sub 250 calories is what I usually go for
Protein Content
Make sure your protein bar is actually a protein bar. Shoot for a minimum 5-6 grams protein per 100 cal. Ex a 200 calorie bar would be at least 10-12g protein
Carbs and fat
Choose bars that fit your eating style with regards to carbs and fat. There are plenty of lower carb and higher carb bars. I like getting a mix of both for any meal situation
Artificial colors & sweeteners
Minimize artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, and high fructose corn syrup. Sugar alcohols like xylitol, sorbitol, lactitol, mannitol, and erythritol can give some of us the walking farts & disaster pants. Lean towards bars using natural sweeteners from honey, coconut, maple syrup, etc
Protein type
Usually it’s soy, whey, collagen, or whole-food based (plant or animal). Lean towards whole food based proteins but ultimately choose what fits your eating preference and food tolerance
Allergens
Scope for nut, dairy, gluten, soy and any other allergens so you don’t get sick and/or die
My current personal favorite protein bars
*Amazon affiliate links below*
Rx bars - Minimal ingredients. The earth-tone colored package flavors (chocolate sea salt, peanut butter, and etc) are the best in my opinion.
Epic bars - made from real meat
Epic Performance Bars - Similar to Rx Bars. Key Lime is my favorite.
Clif Builder’s bars - taste really good. 20g protein
ONE Bars - 20g protein. Taste good and low in sugar
Kirkland Protein Bars - Costco only. a bit chewy but taste good. High in fiber. Lots of sugar alcohols so can cause gas if you eat too many in one day. Chocolate brownie is my go-to.
I know there are tons of protein bars out there but keep swiping for ones I found in the grocer that I would say are decent options. I haven’t tried them all so don’t hate me if they taste terrible.
Would love to know what some protein bars you love. Leave a comment below.
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