How To Find A Healthy Protein Bar
From Clif and Quest Bars to GoMacro, RxBar, KIND, ThinkThin, Luna and Larabar, protein bars are a dime a dozen. Although they’re easy and are promoted as a “healthy” snack option, most varieties on the market are loaded with sugar, flavoring agents, hydrogenated oils and even GMO’s. As a professional nutrition label reader (yes, that’s what I call myself these days…), I have to say: I wouldn’t touch 90% of the protein bars on the market–they’re nothing more than glorified candy bars!
So what about the last 10% of bars out there that are Nutritionist-approved and healthy enough to indulge in? Go for it! Especially on busy days where you need something quick, easy and filling. Although I’m all about real food, I’m also a huge proponent of convenience. BUT, you have to be a smart shopper and sort though a lot of junk to find your “gem” so to speak!
While it’s important to scan the Nutrition Facts for the breakdown of carbs, sugar and protein, even more important is to read through the list of ingredients–this is where the truth lies…
Here are my top tips for buying healthier protein bars:
Avoid soy and whey protein isolates - protein isolates of any kind are highly processed and often a source of MSG, a food additive that literally excites the brain cells to death (yikes!). Soy-based products (such as protein isolates, tofu, soy burgers and soy milk) are not healthy. First of all, up to 90% of soy in American is genetically-modified and GMOs wreak havoc on the gut, brain and body. Soy is also an estrogen-mimicking protein that creates massive hormonal imbalance, driving symptoms such as weight gain (especially in the midsection), painful/irregular periods, irritability and fatigue. Plus, soy and dairy are two of the top food allergens that drive inflammation, breakouts, digestive issues and more.
Choose grass-fed collagen, pea, rice or nut/seed protein bars - these wholesome protein sources are cleaner burning, real food ingredients that are easily-digested and tolerated, even by sensitive individuals. Note: avoid peanuts–click here to learn more!
Be wary of natural flavors - containing up to 100 different chemicals, including MSG, GMO’s and food allergens, natural flavors literally hijack your brain and make you addicted. If you are struggling with your weight and/or constant hunger and cravings, these have GOT TO GO!
Avoid sugar alcohols - zero-calorie sweeteners are a draw, especially for all you calorie counters out there but artificial sweeteners such as erythritol, sucralose, sorbitol, mannitol and xylitol are not healthy. Since they are up to 600 times as sweet as regular sugar, but have no calories associated with them, their ingestion can trick your brain into craving even more sugar. Plus, they’re not digested which can lead to massive amounts of bloating and gas. Healthier sugars include: honey, maple syrup, dates and moderate amounts of stevia and monkfruit.
Look for at least 10g protein - protein is metabolism-boosting, muscle building and the primary macronutrient for blood sugar stabilization (thus hunger and craving control).
Look for less than 10g sugar per bar - sugar is the top inflammatory food that’s found in everything from your protein bars, sauces and dressings to that mocha-chocolatte that you get from your local coffeeshop in the morning. I recommend looking for products with no more than 10g sugar per serving.
Source organic - the USDA certified organic label ensures less chemicals, including NO GMO’s, hormones and antibiotics (if animal-based), and synthetic pesticides. It also ensures a more natural growing process and more nutrient-dense soil, thus more nutrients for you!
When it comes to protein bars, the simpler the better. The brands that I personally use and recommend to clients include: Vital Proteins collagen bars, Bulletproof bars, GoMacro (vegan) bars and Aloha (plant-based) bars.
Important Note: although protein bars are great in a pinch, even better is to eat real meals containing wholesome protein sources such as pasture-raised eggs, wild-caught fish, grass-fed beef and/or sprouted beans. Fast food (be it protein bars or McDonalds) leads to cheap health, and you’re worth a million sista!
Want to learn more about protein bars? Click here to book a free Discovery Call with me!
This article contains affiliate links, which means that if purchases are made when clicked, I receive a small commission. Thank you!