Protein bars are healthy, delicious, and convenient. Some can even replace a whole meal and fuel your muscles after a challenging workout. The downside is that most brands are loaded with carbs and can exceed 400 calories per serving. If you’re cutting or preparing for a fitness contest, you want a protein bar that’s low in carbs and calories. It’s recommended to avoid any product containing gut-irritating sweeteners, hydrogenated fats, and preservatives.
So, here are the best protein bars to keep you fit and satisfy your sweet tooth:
Quest Nutrition Quest Bars
Quest bars are a favorite choice for millions of athletes and fitness buffs. While most protein bars are thinly disguised candy bars with tons of sugar, these products deliver a steady supply of protein, fiber, and amino acids with no added sugar. Quest bars are gluten free and don’t contain any harmful ingredients or rice syrups. There are 21 grams of protein and only three carbs in each bar, making it ideal for dieters.
GNC Pro Performance Oatmeal Protein Bar Deluxe
With 30 grams of fat, medium and slow digesting protein, six grams of carbs, and five grams of sugar, the Deluxe protein bars from GNC can replace breakfast or lunch. These delicious treats will keep you full and replenish your muscle glycogen stores after intense training.
Almond Honey Rise Protein Bar
This tasty protein bar has no gluten, artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or soy protein. It’s made with the highest quality whey protein, nutrient-dense nuts, and high-antioxidant fruits, offering steady energy throughout the day. It’s perfect as a snack or meal replacement, and delivers 20 grams of protein per serving.
Muscle Pharm Combat Crunch Bars
The Combat Crunch Bars from Muscle Pharm are gluten free, featuring multiple layers of chocolate, peanut butter, and nuts. With 20 grams of protein and 210 calories per serving, this snack is ideal for those who want to build lean muscle and keep fat to a minimum. Its main ingredient is whey protein isolate, so it’s best to enjoy it pre or post-workout.