Excessive-protein is the pattern of 2024, so naturally, everybody’s looking for straightforward hacks to extend protein consumption to hit their objectives. All over the place you look, persons are snacking on dried beef sticks and stocking up on protein powder. In 2024, MyFitnessPal customers logged protein powerhouse cottage cheese 35% extra instances 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 professional opinion on how to decide on one which is sensible for you. Learn on for her purchasing recommendation and picks.
What Is The Dietary Standards For The Finest Protein Bars?
In line with Mercer, there are two major issues to take a look at when choosing a bar. “Added sugar and, after all, protein.” She likes to see a minimum of 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 each day energy,” says Mercer. “For instance, in the event you eat 2,000 energy a day, that may be 50 grams of added sugar.” So, take a look at the grams of sugar and take into account the way it matches into your general day. (Professional tip: you possibly can simply monitor your each 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 primarily based on dietary preferences and limitations. Whether or not you’re in search of a bar that’s excessive in fiber, low in carbs, or free from dairy, we’ve received you lined.
Whey Protein Bars
Constructed Bars and Suppose! Bars
When you’re in search of a protein bar that packs a punch by way of protein content material, look no additional than Constructed Bars and Suppose! Bars.
“Each bars supply nice macros at an reasonably priced value,” 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 a bit extra fats added, most likely to help in taste, however nothing to fret an excessive amount of about. I additionally respect 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
You may additionally like
When is Consuming Excessive-Protein Truly Consuming Too A lot Protein? >
Low Carb Keto Protein Bar
Collagen Protein Bars
For these following a low-carb or ketogenic weight loss plan, the Good Keto Bar is an efficient possibility. “I like that the ingredient listing 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 test.
When selecting the best protein bar, Mercer reminds us to “keep conscious 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 made out of entire meals, with peanut butter being the primary supply of protein.
“It’s received 17 grams of protein in a single bar, making it a balanced possibility that gives each long-term and short-term vitality,” says dietitian Emily Sullivan.
Whereas it’s increased in fats because of the peanut butter, Sullivan notes that “it’s largely unsaturated fats, which is healthier 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 vitamin, the RX Bar in Nut Butter and Oat is a standout. “I really 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)
When you’re in search of a soy-free possibility, the RX Protein Bar in Chocolate Sea Salt is a superb selection. With solely 5 major elements, this all-natural bar gives 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 possibility.
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 possibility, 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 vitality,” 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 in the event you want 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 fairly easy elements listing.”
Dietary content material per bar:
- Energy: 160
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fats: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Fiber: 9g
You may additionally like:
Excessive-Protein Cottage Cheese Queso Recipe >
Steadily Requested Questions
We requested registered dietitian Daisy Mercer to evaluate your burning questions on protein bars. Get dietitian-approved solutions under:
Are protein bars a very good possibility for meal alternative?
Whereas protein bars might be handy for on-the-go vitamin, they’re usually not full meal replacements due to their restricted nutrient content material in comparison with a balanced meal.
What are the most effective instances to eat protein bars?
Some good instances to eat a protein bar embody after a exercise, as a mid-afternoon snack to curb starvation, or as a fast breakfast possibility if you’re brief on time. Timing relies on 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. Nevertheless, it’s essential to decide on bars with low added sugars and to contemplate general calorie consumption.
Can I eat protein bars every single day?
Consuming protein bars each day can result in extreme consumption of processed elements, added sugars, or unhealthy fat, relying on the bar. It’s greatest to differ your protein sources and embody entire meals like lean meats, eggs, and legumes.
How do protein bars evaluate to whole-food protein sources?
Whereas protein bars supply comfort, entire meals protein sources reminiscent of hen, fish, eggs, and beans are usually extra nutritious, providing a broader vary of nutritional vitamins, minerals, and different helpful compounds.
The submit The 9 Finest Protein Bars, In line with our Dietitians appeared first on MyFitnessPal Weblog.
