Excessive-protein is the development of 2024, so naturally, everybody’s looking for simple hacks to extend protein consumption to hit their objectives. In all places you look, individuals are snacking on dried beef sticks and stocking up on protein powder. In 2024, MyFitnessPal customers logged protein powerhouse cottage cheese 35% extra occasions than they did in 2023.
And protein bars are getting renewed consideration, too. Gross sales topped $5 billion in 2023, and the protein bar market is predicted to develop 6.4% over the following seven years.
However with so many choices in the marketplace, how have you learnt which protein bars are literally good for you? We requested registered dietitian Daisy Mercer for her knowledgeable opinion on how to decide on one which is sensible for you. Learn on for her buying recommendation and picks.
What Is The Dietary Standards For The Greatest Protein Bars?
In accordance with Mercer, there are two essential issues to have a look at when deciding on a bar. “Added sugar and, in fact, protein.” She likes to see no less than 10 grams of protein per bar.
Sugar is a bit more nuanced. “The Dietary Pointers for People recommends that added sugars make up lower than 10% of your complete every day energy,” says Mercer. “For instance, for those who eat 2,000 energy a day, that will be 50 grams of added sugar.” So, have a look at the grams of sugar and think about the way it matches into your total day. (Professional tip: you possibly can simply monitor your every day sugar consumption by logging meals, drinks, and snacks in MyFitnessPal!)
We consulted with Mercer and different MyFitnessPal registered dietitians to deliver you a information to a number of better-for-you protein bars based mostly on dietary preferences and limitations. Whether or not you’re searching for a bar that’s excessive in fiber, low in carbs, or free from dairy, we’ve bought you lined.
Whey Protein Bars
Constructed Bars and Suppose! Bars
Should you’re searching for a protein bar that packs a punch when it comes to protein content material, look no additional than Constructed Bars and Suppose! Bars.
“Each bars supply nice macros at an inexpensive worth,” says dietitian Daisy Mercer.
Each bars ship a stable 17 to twenty grams of protein per serving and hold added sugars to a minimal.
“Whey protein bars do are inclined to have just a little extra fats added, in all probability to assist in taste, however nothing to fret an excessive amount of about. I additionally recognize that corn syrup isn’t utilized in these bars,” provides Mercer.
Dietary content material per Constructed Bar (varies by taste):
- Energy: ~130-180
- Protein: 17-20g
- Carbs: 18-22g
- Fats: 2-4g
- Sugar: 3-5g
- Fiber: 0-5g
Dietary content material per Suppose! Bar (varies by taste):
- Energy: ~150-230
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 18-23g
- Fats: 4-9g
- Sugar: 0-3g
- Fiber: 2-5g
Low Carb Keto Protein Bar
Collagen Protein Bars
For these following a low-carb or ketogenic food plan, the Good Keto Bar is an effective choice. “I like that the ingredient record is minimal and makes use of elements we all know and perceive,” says Mercer. With 10 grams of protein and really low sugar content material, it’s a stable selection for individuals who wish to hold their carb consumption in examine.
When choosing the proper protein bar, Mercer reminds us to “keep aware of saturated fats in protein bars, as a rise in saturated fats has been related to elevated levels of cholesterol, and that’s related to the next threat for coronary heart illness,” says Mercer.
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: ~230
- Protein: 11g
- Carbs: 12g (web carbs: 4)
- Fats: 18g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
Gluten-Free Protein Bar
Good Bar Peanut Butter
For these avoiding gluten, give the Good Bar Peanut Butter a attempt. This bar is primarily constructed from entire meals, with peanut butter being the primary supply of protein.
“It’s bought 17 grams of protein in a single bar, making it a balanced choice that gives each long-term and short-term power,” says dietitian Emily Sullivan.
Whereas it’s increased in fats as a result of peanut butter, Sullivan notes that “it’s principally unsaturated fats, which is best for coronary heart well being in comparison with saturated fats.”
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 340
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fats: 19g
- Sugar: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
Dairy-Free Protein Bar
RX Bar – Nut Butter and Oat (Blueberry Cashew Butter Taste)
For a dairy-free protein bar that doesn’t compromise on taste or diet, the RX Bar in Nut Butter and Oat is a standout. “I like so many issues about this bar,” says dietitian Katherine Basbaum. “It’s made with only a few elements, affords 10 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and has low sodium and saturated fats content material.”
Whereas the bar does comprise some added sugars from honey and coconut sugar, Basbaum appreciates that it avoids extra processed sweeteners like excessive fructose corn syrup.
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 220
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 29g
- Fats: 8g
- Sugar: 9g
- Fiber: 5g
Soy-Free Protein Bar
RX Protein Bar (Chocolate Sea Salt Taste)
Should you’re searching for a soy-free choice, the RX Protein Bar in Chocolate Sea Salt is a superb selection. With solely 5 essential elements, this all-natural bar supplies 12 grams of protein sourced from egg whites. “It’s a hearty, chewy bar that works nice for a fast breakfast or high-protein snack,” says Basbaum.
The bar additionally delivers 5 grams of fiber and has no added sugars, making it a healthful and satisfying choice.
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 200
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 23g
- Fats: 8g
- Sugar: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
Excessive Fiber Protein Bar
Aloha Protein Bars (Peanut Butter Cup Taste)
For these looking for a high-fiber choice, Aloha Protein Bars supply a considerable 10 grams of fiber together with 14 grams of protein.
“These bars comprise round 3 grams of saturated fats and 9 grams of unsaturated fats, offering each short-term and long-term power,” says Sullivan.
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 230
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 26g
- Fats: 10g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 10g
Plant-Primarily based Protein Bar
IQ Bar (Peanut Butter Chip Taste)
It may be a problem to discover a good protein bar for those who favor plant-based meals. However this one matches the invoice. It delivers 12 grams of protein and solely 160 energy.
“I like its low sugar content material and comparatively excessive protein content material,” says dietitian Brookell White. “Plus, it has a reasonably simple elements record.”
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 160
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fats: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 9g

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Excessive-Protein Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe >
Continuously Requested Questions
We requested registered dietitian Daisy Mercer to overview your burning questions on protein bars. Get dietitian-approved solutions under:
Are protein bars a great choice for meal substitute?
Whereas protein bars will be handy for on-the-go diet, they’re usually not full meal replacements due to their restricted nutrient content material in comparison with a balanced meal.
What are the perfect occasions to eat protein bars?
Some good occasions to eat a protein bar embrace after a exercise, as a mid-afternoon snack to curb starvation, or as a fast breakfast choice once you’re brief on time. Timing depends upon your particular person dietary wants and objectives.
Can protein bars assist with weight reduction?
Protein bars can help weight reduction by offering a satisfying, lower-calorie snack that helps you meet your protein objectives. Nonetheless, it’s vital to decide on bars with low added sugars and to contemplate total calorie consumption.
Can I eat protein bars on daily basis?
Consuming protein bars every day can result in extreme consumption of processed elements, added sugars, or unhealthy fat, relying on the bar. It’s finest to fluctuate your protein sources and embrace entire meals like lean meats, eggs, and legumes.
How do protein bars examine to whole-food protein sources?
Whereas protein bars supply comfort, entire meals protein sources similar to hen, fish, eggs, and beans are sometimes extra nutritious, providing a broader vary of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and different helpful compounds.
The submit The 9 Greatest Protein Bars, In accordance with our Dietitians appeared first on MyFitnessPal Weblog.
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