Protein bars can be of great benefit. Whether you need protein from other sources besides meat, are trying to gain muscle, or would like to have a healthier diet, protein bars are a convenient choice. These snacks come in a variety of flavors and sizes. With there being so many to choose from, one may wonder which one is the best for them. To help, we have compiled a list of eight of the best protein bars suitable for your fitness aims. The protein bars featured in this list are low in added sugars, contain a good source of essential nutrients, and most importantly have a high quality protein content.
**While protein bars can be of much benefit, always be sure to consult with your health practitioner before making any significant lifestyle or dietary changes.
What to look for in the best protein bars:
A good protein bar shouldn’t just be good tasting. A lot of the time, protein bars are filled with added sugars to create that sweet taste. This can be counteractive for those trying to live healthier lifestyles. Protein bars with less than 10 grams of added sugars per bar are a good aim. You may also notice some protein bars have “sugar alcohol” listed as an ingredient. Sugar alcohols are supposed to be healthier alternatives to the sugars found in sweets like sodas or junk foods – and no there is not “real” alcohol or ethanol in them.
Sugar alcohols are found in some foods naturally or can be derived and processed from another sugar. While they aren’t completely healthy nor unhealthy, it is best to keep this ingredient percentage limited as well. Regardless of how much protein you are looking to consume per day, your protein bars should consist of high quality protein. Complete proteins contain all of the nine essential amino acids we must get from our diet. Here are eight of the best protein bars suitable for your fitness goals:
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1) BSN Protein Crisp Bars
The BSN Protein Crisp Bars from Syntha-6 feature 20 grams of high quality protein. These protein bars are especially helpful for athletes and those who live a more active lifestyle. The essential amino acids derived from protein can aid in muscle tissue repair and muscle growth among other purposes, making these a great post-workout snack choice. There are six flavors to choose from, all of which containing only 2-4 grams of sugar. The BSN Protein Crisp Bars can also be used as a meal supplement if desired, with each bar consisting of 230-240 calories.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- Promotes lean muscle growth
- Tasty flavor choices
- Gluten-free
2) Power Crunch High Protein Energy Snack
These protein bars come in a wide variety of tasty flavors. Unlike a lot of protein bars with a sweet taste, the Power Crunch High Protein Energy Snacks contain only 5-7 grams of sugar. They are a great snack choice for those looking for a healthy mid-day refreshment.
Additionally, these protein bars come with the brand’s own high-dh hydrolyzed whey protein (Proto Whey) ingredient that aids in digestion and nutrient absorption. This in turn provides a quicker delivery of the nutrients found in the protein bars.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- 13 grams of quality protein
- Great for after-workout recovery
- Proto Whey promotes complete nutrient absorption
3) FitJoy Protein Bars
Containing 20 grams of protein, these protein bars from FitJoy also come with a great source of fiber (11 grams). Of the many functions of fiber, one of which is nutrient absorption. The FitJoy Protein Bars are good for those who live a more active style but work just as well for those looking for a extra source of protein. These snack bars are GMO free as well as gluten free, and feature all-natural ingredients with no artificial flavorings. As far as flavoring, there are currently four to select from.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- Good source of healthy carbohydrates, but low in added sugars
- Comprised of whey protein and milk protein isolate
- All-natural ingredients and flavoring
4) Muscle Milk Protein Bars
The Muscle Milk Protein Bars consist of 15 grams of protein. As they state in their name, these protein bars are comprised of milk proteins – milk protein isolate, whey protein isolate and concentrate, and calcium caseinate. Whey protein has a higher rate of digestibility compared to other types of protein, making it a beneficial choice for muscle recovery post-workout. While these bars are great for after workouts, they also provide a great source of energy to serve as a pre-workout refreshment.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- High quality blend of milk proteins
- Great for on-the-go travel
- No artificial flavors
5) PowerBar Protein Plus Bars
Great for on-the-go travels, these protein bars come at an economical value with up to 15 bars per pack. While there is a higher sugar content (12 grams), each bar contains 20 grams of protein. There are no artificial flavorings or colors in these protein bars and they are also gluten-free. The PowerBar Protein Plus Bars are made especially for athletes and heavy trainers. The ingredients are formulated to aid in muscle recovery and energy restoration. The fiber content found in these snacks help benefit any diet as fiber promotes healthy digestion.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- High protein content
- No artificial flavors or colors
- Fiber composition provides multiple health benefits
6) CLIF Whey Protein Bars
Comprised of 14 grams of whey protein, you are getting all nine essential amino acids from these protein bars. As stated, whey protein is one of the more faster digesting proteins. This protein is also beneficial for the body aside from muscle growth and nutrient absorption. Whey protein has been found to lower inflammation and enhance antioxidant defenses in the body. The ingredients in these protein bars are additionally organic and GMO free.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- Not only contains whey protein, but other protein sources from organic nuts, brown rice protein, and pea protein
- Low in sugars (5 grams)
7) Quest Nutrition Protein Cookie
The Quest Nutrition Protein Cookie does not look like your usual protein bar or supplement. They come in the form of your average cookie, with four different all-natural flavors. Per cookie, you are getting an impressive 15 grams of protein and a helpful 10 grams of fiber. There is less than one gram of sugar, and the cookie is instead sweetened with Erythritol and Stevia. If you are a picky eater or typically don’t like the taste of protein supplements, these are a good try.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- Favorable sweet source of protein
- Soy and gluten-free
- Great source of fiber
8) Pure Protein High Protein Bars
Whether you are looking for a tasty snack that still provides a healthy source of protein, or are trying to build lean muscle, the Pure Protein High Protein Bars serve as a favorable choice for both. There are up to 18 bars in a pack, making these protein bars an economical choice. Eating these protein bars is like eating a chocolate bar, as there is a chocolate flavored coating on the outside – minus the high sugar.
Other reasons why these make the list for best protein bars:
- Contains a protein blend of whey protein isolate/concentrate and milk protein isolate
- Long-lasting
- Good for active lifestyles
References:
1“Sugar Alcohols: Good or Bad?” Healthline, Healthline Media, www.healthline.com/nutrition/sugar-alcohols-good-or-bad#section4.
2“10 Evidence-Based Health Benefits Of Whey Protein.” Healthline. N.p., 2018. Web. 24 Nov. 2018.
Disclaimer: We are not medical professionals or experts. What is written throughout the content of our website is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or professional advice. What you choose to do with the information provided is at your own risk and discretion. Before making any significant changes to your diet and / or lifestyle, be sure to contact your health practitioner.