The 15 Healthiest Protein Bars
Protein bars are everywhere. They’re calling your name from next to the cash register at every deli, cafe, and drugstore. They’re in vending machines and layered on gas station and grocery store shelves. They’re even offered as snacks on airplanes. Because they’re a dime a dozen, it is easy to grab the most convenient option thinking it is a “healthy snack” without realizing that you’re actually choosing a glorified candy bar. Figuring out the healthiest protein bars is a difficult chore and we’re here to make it a little easier. What Makes a Protein Bar Healthy? Most protein bar options are just plain unhealthy. Many contain added sugar (often in multiple forms) and the protein is often low-quality and highly processed. They may also contain additives like artificial flavors and unhealthy preservatives. So, how can you tell if a protein bar is actually worth the convenience? Below are our top tips for determining the healthiest protein bars, deciphering the ingredients list and the things to look for as you scan nutrition labels. Tips to Help You Pick the Healthiest Protein Bar Protein should come from minimally processed sources such as egg whites, nuts and seeds, brown rice protein, fava bean protein, pea protein, hemp protein, almond butter, peanut butter and grass-fed meats. We recommend steering clear of protein bars that contain protein isolates which may contain unnecessary (and downright unhealthy) additives. The total amount of protein also matters. Make sure sugar is far down on the ingredients list—if at all. Do your best to avoid added sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup, cane sugar, fruit juice concentrates, molasses and syrups. Look for the sweetness to come from whole food ingredients like apples, dates, goji berries or other fruits. Steer clear of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose. Sugar alcohols such as erythritol, sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol (if an ingredient ends in an -ol, it’s probably best to ditch the bar) can cause some unpleasant GI symptoms so we recommend avoiding them. Better options for non-nutritive sweeteners are monk fruit and allulose. Additional ingredients should be real foods, not fillers. Watch out for ingredients like carrageenan, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and color additives. Along with protein, aim for a good balance of healthy fats and fiber. Look for bars that are low in hydrogenated oils and trans fat, and contain nuts and seeds to provide healthy unsaturated fats. The ideal bar will also have at least 3 grams of fiber. Although we are not calorie counters it is still important to be conscious of calories. Ensure the overall calorie count of your protein bar doesn’t exceed 250-300 calories. That’s a lot of information to *digest*, so to help you figure out which to reach for, we unwrapped dozens of the most popular brands and evaluated the ingredients, nutrition facts, and, of course, flavor. RELATED: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth without Added Sugar Important: Think of the options below as mini-meals if you don’t have a lunch break between meetings or need a quick protein source after an intense workout. A few of the options below are not perfectly aligned with the recommendations we shared, they’re still some of the healthiest protein bar options out there for when you are in a pinch. So, we recommend sticking to whole foods as much as possible and only grabbing these when you’re in a bind. The 15 Healthiest Protein Bars 1. Aloha Coconut Chocolate Almond The Ingredients: This bar has a longer list of ingredients, and while we’re not big fans of vegetable glycerin, there are some great ingredients found in this plant-based protein bar. The first ingredients are brown rice protein and pumpkin seed protein, which makes it stand out from other bars on this list. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of healthy fats and nutrients like iron, calcium and beta-carotene. The Flavor: The coconut flavor will add a tropical twist to your day! The Nutrition Facts: The Aloha Coconut Chocolate Almond bar will give you 14g of protein, 4g of heart healthy monounsaturated fats, 32mg of calcium and 2mg of iron. $29.99 for a box of 12, amazon.com 2. Clif Whole Lotta The Ingredients: These bars do pack a bit more sugar (from dates!) than the other bars on this list. The source of protein is organic pea protein, which is typically less processed than the soy protein alternative. The variety of nuts and seeds pack this bar with phytonutrients and micronutrients including magnesium, copper, zinc, iron and manganese, to name a few. The Flavor: Clif bars were made for endurance exercise, so they can be a bit sweet. This line of bars comes in an assortment of flavors to satisfy these sweet cravings including Tart Cherry Almond and Roasted Peanut Chocolate. The Nutrition Facts: You’ll score 10g of plant-based protein, around 10g of unsaturated fats and around 4g of fiber in 240 calories (depending on which flavor calls your name). RELATED: The Essential Guide to Plant-Based Protein $24.00 for a box of 12, amazon.com 3. EPIC Chicken Sesame BBQ The Ingredients: This healthy protein bar is made with high-quality lean chicken and whole foods like hemp seeds, garlic, and ginger. These foods are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory superstars. The organosulfur compounds in garlic may help inhibit anti-inflammatory enzymes and ginger acts as a natural remedy for nausea and bloating. The Flavor: EPIC is reclaiming the traditional beef jerky category with this line of jerky-inspired meat bars. Thumbs up for when you’re craving something savory versus sweet. The Nutrition Facts: This superstar bar packs 15g of protein in just 120 calories and contains only 3g of sugar. $28.99 for a box of 12, amazon.com 4. EPIC Peanut Butter The Ingredients: We’re sticking with EPIC brand for one more rec. If you’re not into the whole meat bar thing, this alternative option is a great (and delicious) solution made with only five ingredients: Dates, peanuts, egg whites, peanut oil, and sea salt. The Flavor: Peanut butter, need we say more? These bars boast
8 Nutritionist Approved Summer Snacks
It happens to us all. 3:00 p.m hits and we’re rummaging through the cabinets for something to munch on. Whether it be out of boredom, a much needed break or genuine hunger, that afternoon snack urge seems to hit us almost every day. And, often, we reach for the quickest, and sometimes most unhealthy option in the pantry. We’re big fans of snacking here at Nutritious Life — our founder Keri wrote a whole book on it, The Snack Factor Diet reveals the health benefits of snacking. “When you snack properly, you are also more likely to make better food choices throughout the day,” she explains. Studies suggest eating every few hours can help with your blood sugar and keep your metabolism moving. Plus, it can make you happier. A study at the University of Wales showed that women who were given snacks reported being in a better mood, were sharper mentally, and performed better on a word-recall task. “The formula for a healthy snack involves a few elements,” Keri continues. “Every snack should ideally contain a balance of carbohydrates (with a focus on fruits and vegetables), high quality protein, and healthy fats.” Also, munching between meals can satiate your hunger and keep you from overeating at your next meal. Try these 8 yummy bites to keep you energized and avoid that afternoon slump! Yerba Mate Energy Bites When you feel a craving coming on, don’t reach for the cookie jar. Filling your body with processed goods will only leave you feeling hungrier. Instead, whip up your own tasty treat using ingredients you can actually pronounce. These Yerba Mate Energy Bites are gluten-free, vegan and are a perfectly portioned pick-me-up. Cashews and almond butter provide plenty of healthy fats and also bring in some protein. Then, we add the secret ingredient: Argentine yerba mate, which is loaded with with vitamins and minerals. Grilled Avocado Bruschetta A unique twist to the classic, you won’t even miss the bread when nibbling on this Grilled Avocado Bruschetta. Healthy fats and vitamin packed tomatoes make up this filling, and refreshing savory snack. This shareable snack is also perfect for your next picnic or pool day. Banana Sushi Who said sushi had to come from the sea? Banana Sushi will bring a whole new level of creativity to snacktime, and a handful of nutrients like protein and calcium. Top it off with fiber-rich chia seeds or healthy fatcoconut shreds. You, and your kids, will love this! Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Spread Antioxidant-rich Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Spread is a great alternative to those heavy cheese dips. This vegan spread is creamy and can conquer your sweet or salty craving. Miso & Sesame Hard-Boiled Eggs Eggs are an amazing, simple, high protein snack. And there are so many ways you can dress them up. Miso & Sesame Hard-Boiled Eggs offer an unexpected twist. Miso fills the gut with healthy bacteria, which may lead to better digestion and a stronger immune system. Throw the leftovers over any greens for a quick lunchtime salad! Apple “Donuts” It doesn’t get much healthier and satisfying than this apple, peanut butter and yogurt combo. Apple “Donuts” have only 3 ingredients and you just may be craving this textured treat over classic donuts before you know it. Crispy Tofu Simple Baked Tofu is a good source of protein (and contains all nine of the essential amino acids), meaning you’ll be free of hunger after this satiating snack. Gluten-free and vegan, tofu is a great way to up your plant based protein, just make sure to go for organic. Coconut-Crusted Avocado Fries Much lighter than their potato-derived cousin, these Coconut-Crusted Avocado Fries are the smart answer to your fry craving. The garlic, onion and paprika powders don’t just spice up the healthy-fat filled avocado; they have their own healthy benefits as well. All 3 seasonings are known to contribute to your heart health.
12 Awesome Healthy Snacks On The Go
Healthy snacks are hard enough to pack as part of your normal routine, so when it comes to traveling, packing them can be more stressful than deciding between wedges or flats. You’ve heard it a thousand times: Be prepared, pack smart, snack smart, blah blah blah. But there’s more to life than boring snacks! I’ve done all the hard work for you and I’m sharing my favorite fresh and packable snacks. Of course, they’re also healthy! And, since I like to be prepared for pretty much everything … pack both the wedges and the flats. 12 Awesome Healthy Snacks On The Go Popcorn You have choices here, friends. America’s favorite salty, crunchy snack is perfect for traveling when chosen properly. Boom Chicka Pop is non-GMO and comes in flavors you will heart, especially the sweet & salty combos like caramel & cheddar. I also love the extra virgin olive oil flavor from Popcorn Indiana’s Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn and this one is also non-GMO. While you’re doing all that crunchy, don’t forget that popcorn is loaded with antioxidants and has about 3 grams of fiber for 3 1/2 cups. Kind Bars There are million bars to choose from, but you really need to know what you’re doing here since not all bars are created equal. My go to? Kind! They are generally super clean and yuck free, and they have a bunch of new flavors! Dark chocolate almond and coconut, Black truffle almond and sea salt or Dark chocolate almond mint all get a hardy, yes, please from me and I’m sure you’ll agree. YumButter Take your nut butter game up with these individual packs of nut butters that are perfect for travel. You’ll consume a wide variety of nutrients and a whole lot of flavor because this nut butter includes almonds, organic chia seeds and hemp seeds, Goji berry powder, lucuma powder and Himalayan pink salt. Pack one of these with a piece of fruit, and you’re all set. GimMe Organic Roasted Seaweed Snacks A salty snack to keep you away from those rest stop chips and pretzels. Aside from being super satisfying, they’ll give you 15% of your recommended daily dose of vitamin C and a bit of calcium. And, they’re fun to eat. The Good Bean Dried Chickpeas Can you say protein, fiber, antioxidants and crunch? OK, don’t say it, just eat them. These power-packed snacks come in both sweet and savory flavors so all of your cravings are covered. Vital Choice Wild Salmon Jerky Strips Great for a take-along option, each pouch contains 6 ounces of wild sockeye and keta salmon packed with omega-3s. They’re flavored with mild organic herbs and spices, a pinch of sea salt, a hint of smoky flavor, and a touch of organic sugar. No gluten, nitrates, nitrites, or artificial preservatives. You don’t need to opt for processed meats full of nitrates anymore just because, well, it’s lunchtime and a ham sammie seamed easy. And chances are your diet could use more fish, right? Nature’s Path Qi’a Superfoods Hot Oatmeal Creamy Coconut Your travel breakfast doesn’t need to come in a miniature box with a cartoon character on it. These packets will be your new best travel companion as you take your oats eating to a whole new level. Do you add hemp and chia to your oats? No need here. It’s already covered. Boom. The Chia Co. Individual Chia Shots While I don’t usually recommend taking shots while driving, I’ll say a-OK to these chia packets, especially sprinkled in yogurt, which you can pick up at any rest stop. But texting while driving … NEVER. Crunchies Freeze-Dried Fruit Ranging from dried fruits to dried veggies, alike, these are another great option for that clearly necessary travel crunch. You’ll love how they melt in your mouth … way better than candy. Carrington Farms Flax Pax You know that traveling can wreak havoc on your bowels. You need fiber to keep you regular and these packs are great to sprinkle on your meals for a little extra. Sold in perfectly-portioned packages, they are great for any meal and no measuring required. Epic Epic Bar is a great way to get your protein in in bar form. For all you paleo and gluten-free peeps, this is a home run. Made with grass-fed buffalo, one bar will give you 11 grams of protein and most definitely keep you satisfied until bbq time. They’re pretty much epic. Pun intended. Dang Are you as coconut-obsessed as we are? Thought so. Add these chips to your travel bag. Stat. Munch, top, sprinkle … eat them any way you wish. Dang, they’re good. (Sorry, had to!) So the next time you travel, before you decide that vacation equals inevitable weight gain, pack along these healthy snacks to keep you on track wherever you may go. Whether you’re racking up the frequent flier miles or just a once-in-a-while vacationer, you have the means to snack smart at any and all destinations. Bon voyage! More reading: If you’re following a vegan diet, we have two great guides for vegan-friendly road trip snacks and road trip meals. Happy trails!
