They’re an easy, go-to snack that keeps hunger at bay. You can pick them up at most supermarkets and have them handy whenever you want – plus, the wrapper says ‘high in protein’. So, aren’t all protein bars good for you?
Not always, is the honest answer. Follow this checklist when you’re picking a protein bar and you should end up with one that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Jump straight to our favourite healthy protein bars.
Sugar in protein bars?
You should always check that your protein bar is low in sugar if you’re trying to lose fat. High sugar levels will mean your energy is more likely to spike and then drop, leaving you with less energy (and often more calories) than a low-sugar protein bar.
Sugar is listed under ‘carbohydrates, of which sugars’ on the label. However, carbohydrates and sugars themselves are not necessarily always a negative thing. They provide the energy to take on a full workout (or just tackling the rest of your day in the office) and replenish glycogen stores after a workout (stored carbohydrates within muscles). So, take into account what you’ll be doing with your day when you’ve had a protein bar.
High-calorie protein bars
Make sure the protein bar you choose fits in with the calorie intake you’re aiming for. Some protein bars can be relatively high in calories, and if you’re all about the mass gains, this might be a plus for you. If you’re restricting your calories, however, you’ll be shooting yourself in the foot.
A low-calorie protein bar, however, is a great way to stick to your diet plans whilst staying full.
Stuffed with salt?
In a similar way to sugar, some protein bars contain way too much salt. Salt in the diet is essential, however, too much of the stuff can lead to high blood pressure (and further complications if it goes on for too long).
As anyone who has actively tried to reduce their salt intake will know that this sneaky seasoning can turn up everywhere. So, just check out the back of the pack and aim for a low amount of salt.
Filled with fibre?
Fibre provides plenty of benefits to the body, for example, it helps to keep us feeling fuller for longer – a key reason you should select a high-fibre protein bar if you’re trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight.
In addition, fibre helps to regulate the body’s water intake, so it can help prevent feelings of being bloated. Make sure you look for a high-fibre protein bar for maximum health benefits.
Why not make your own?
Prepping your own protein bars can be a great way to control exactly what you’re putting in your body. Protein powder, oats, nut butter, desiccated coconut and dried fruits all make great ingredients for easy snacks that are high in protein. Of course, make sure you consider each ingredient’s nutritional content and measure out your portions so you can avoid the same protein bar pitfalls!
Try our High-Protein White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups for a seriously delicious snack…
High-Protein White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Creamy white chocolate with a rich, nutty centre. Yes, please.
Check out our favourite healthy protein bars…
Best chocolate bar swap: Layered Protein Bar
If you’re looking for a snack with a bit more bite, this hefty protein bar delivers a decadent chocolatey wafer hit – keeping on top of cravings and contributing to maintenance of muscle mass, too.
Boasting 20g of high-quality protein and only 2.4g of sugar per bar, Layered Protein Bar hits the supermarket alternatives out of the ball park.
