Protein bars can be a lifesaver for busy people who want a nutritious snack when they are on the go. Since protein is an important macro that supports muscle growth, satiety, our immune health, and many more aspects of our health, getting enough of this key nutrient is a no-brainer. Thankfully, many varieties of protein bars are packed with this nutrient, making meeting our needs easy-breezy.
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Can Protein Bars Be Healthy?
We all know that protein bars are packed with protein. But these snacks do have a reputation for being a source of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and too many calories. The truth is that while some varieties aren’t the best choice when it comes to supporting a healthy diet, many of the choices can be healthy.
What to Look For in a Healthy Protein Bar
If you are one of the many people who are jumping on the protein bar bandwagon, there are a few things you need to know before you make sure that your selection doesn’t contain processed and high-sugar ingredients. When picking your protein bar, here are some things you should look out for:
- Your bar should not contain a large quantity of added sugars
- Your bar should not be loaded with saturated fat
- You should be opting for a bar that contains at least 3 grams of fiber
- Protein should be provided in a large quantity (at least 8 grams)
- The ingredients should mainly consist of ‘real’ food and not synthetic ingredients.
5 Healthy Protein Bars You Can Grab on The Go
Choosing the right protein bar that will support your health and taste good is no easy feat. Sure, the options for protein bars on the grocery store shelves appear to be endless. But unfortunately, not all bars will check all of the boxes you should be focusing on.
Among the sea of protein bars out there, here are five that are great choices that fit into a healthy lifestyle nicely.
Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Bar
With 10 grams of protein and only 6 grams of added sugar per bar, these protein options are an organic source of plant-based protein and are easy to enjoy when you are out and about. Plus, since they are non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly, these bars fit into a slew of different diets.
GoMacro Macrobar
If you are into raw bars that are free from soy and dairy, then this bar is for you. Each bar provides 12 grams of protein along with 3 grams of satiating fiber to help give this bar some major staying power. What’s even better is that all GoMacro protein bars are certified organic, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, non-GMO, C.L.E.A.N., and soy-free.
CLIF Builders
If you are looking for a bar with some serious protein, then look no further. CLIF builders provide a whopping 20 grams of complete protein with essential amino acids to help build and repair muscles, whether you’re in the gym or on the job. And like all CLIF bars, CLIF Builders are gluten-free, and they are made from non-GMO and low-glycemic-index ingredients for prolonged levels of energy.
ALOHA Bars
These vegan, low-carb protein bars provide 14 grams of USDA organic plant-based protein, 10 grams of fiber, and nothing artificial. Made with real whole food ingredients like organic brown rice protein and organic pumpkin seed protein, these bars are a nice option for those following a vegan lifestyle, a gluten-free lifestyle, or following a paleo diet.
RXBAR
Made with real food ingredients, these bars contain 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber with zero added sugar. Because of the use of ingredients like real dates in these bars, they are packed with antioxidants too.
Healthy Protein Bars For A Healthy Lifestyle
Protein bars can be a great way to include important nutrition in a pinch. Knowing what to look for when navigating the protein bar section of the store can help you pick the best choice for your own needs while still enjoying something extremely delicious and satisfying. Opting for a bar that is low in added sugars and saturated fat, contains fiber, is made with quality ingredients, and (of course) contains enough protein will help you stick to your healthy diet even when you are on the go.
