These Protein Bars Prove That Healthy Doesn’t Have To Taste Gross
Choosing the right protein bar is a pretty personal choice and it’s not made any easier by brands that are more like candy bars than anything else. If you’re into high protein counts and don’t mind the flavor, there are plenty of options. But, for the few pickier eaters, the flavor in a protein bar is a major factor. Because these things can taste pretty gross, right? Thankfully, as technology has improved, so has the food industry and there are a dozen delicious protein bar options available.
When you’re looking for the right bar, pay attention to the amount of protein, fiber, and calories. Too much of one and not enough of the others can be detrimental to your fitness regimen. Trying to bulk up? Stack up on the grams of protein but watch out for low calories. Fiber is the sneaky ingredient in protein bars and is often the one nutritional item we leave out, but don’t! It’s important to a healthy fitness diet so be sure to select a bar high in fiber, whether it’s a protein bar or a healthy energy bar. We’ve rounded up some of the best protein bars for you below.
1. UCAN Energy Bars
A plant-based protein bar that comes in a variety of excellent flavors such as salted peanut butter, UCAN has a low protein count but is high in complex carbs. Meant more as an in-between snack during workouts, the slow release of carbs will keep your energy and strength up as you make your way through the day. With two grams of protein, seven grams of fat, and seven grams of fiber, it’s by no means a candy bar. With this much fiber, you’ll be set for your next workout.
2. RX BAR
This bar is mid-level on the protein count with 13 grams, an excellent amount for anyone looking to fuel up between workouts or as an afternoon snack. These bars come in a variety of flavors like mint or blueberry and will keep you satisfied during the day. A little low on the fiber count at three grams but the taste and texture make up for it. Add this to any snack time and you’ll be pleased you did. The summer variety pack comes with 12 bars.
3. Rise Bar
Made with whey protein, these bars make a great snack for any athlete. The Chocolate Almond flavor has 17 grams of protein while the honey almond has 20. Pick your protein needs along with your favorite flavor and these bars can’t be beaten. With each flavor having five ingredients or less, Rise Bars are clean, healthy, and soy-free.
4. Pro Bar
High in fiber, these are made with chia and flax seeds to get you all the fiber you need in a bar. With soy-based protein, these are a great plant-based option for those seeking higher nutrition. 20 grams of protein in each bar will keep you satiated and your energy levels high. This may be substituted for a meal and is advertised as a “meal bar” on their website so take that into consideration before eating.
5. Think Thin Protein Bars
Think Thin are pretty tasty and could be mistaken for a granola bar or a candy bar by some, but don’t be fooled, these bars are jam-packed with protein and fiber. The flavors may be misleading but the nutrition is all there. With 0 grams of sugar and 20 grams of protein, these are great bars for after a workout or an in-between snack.
6. Grenade Carb Killa Bars
These bars are high in protein and fiber and low in everything else. The variety pack boasts flavors such as birthday cake, peanut butter, and other wildly delicious flavors that will keep you going after your intense workout. Low in carbs means high in protein so be sure to consume these after a workout.
Buy: Grenade Carb Killa Bars $39.31
7. Oatmega Protein Bars
These plant-based bars are high in protein and come in unique flavors such as white chocolate raspberry, a happy respite from chocolate and peanut butter. With 14 grams of protein and five grams of sugar, these are excellent in-between bars for any athlete looking for a quick snack after a workout. Their biggest draw is DHA omega-3, which is only produced so much by our bodies and needs to be consumed from other products.
Buy: Oatmega Protein Bars $20.35
8. N!CK’S Keto Snack Bar
These keto-friendly snack bars load you up with protein without breaking your diet. They contain 15g of protein and offer only 3g net carbs per snack. Each bar is only 180 calories, making it a great low-calorie treat to tide you over to your next meal.
Buy: N!CK’S Keto Snack Bar $35.95
9. Vega Protein Snack Bar
Another great snacking option is Vega, who makes an awesome protein powder that shouldn’t be missed. Head on over there after you pick out your favorite protein bar flavor. These vegan bars are more wholesome than other protein bars and have better texture as well. With chunks of almonds and chocolate chips, these bars will make you nutritionally and deliciously satisfied.
Buy: Vega Protein Snack Bar $21.49
10. Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Bar
Pack with 10 grams of organic plant-based protein, these healthy snack bars are made with brown rice, pea and chia seeds. In addition to being plant-based, they are also certified organic, vegan, non-dairy, gluten-free, lactose-free, soy-free, kosher, non-GMO, and free of all artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Each bar is only 150 calories, offering a healthy and fulfilling way to snack during the day.
Buy: Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Bar $17.99
11. SimplyProtein Cookie Bar Variety Pack
A great source of protein and fiber, these SimplyProtein cookie bars offer 11g of plant-based protein, 12-13g of fiber and 3g of sugar. This variety pack includes two boxes of Chocolate Chip Baked Bars and two boxes of Peanut Butter Cookie Baked Bars. Each snack is additionally non-GMO, gluten-free, and free of artificial flavors, preservatives, and colors.
Buy: SimplyProtein Cookie Bar Variety Pack $23.96
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