What to look for in a PROTEIN BAR
It’s Karley again! Worley Nutrition Group’s Dietetic Intern.
Last week we talked about all things balanced snacks. This week we will be covering a quick, on-the-go snack: PROTEIN BARS.
Protein bars can be super convenient and help keep us fueled on busy days. Being able to throw a bar in our purse or workout bag before hitting the road for the day is a game changer.
However, not all protein bars are made equal. When choosing a protein bar, it is important to make sure it has a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat (bonus points for some fiber, too!)
So, what bars do we recommend?
Today we are going to dive into a list of some of our favorite protein snack bars for you AND your kiddos!
Go Macro Macrobar:
These organic, plant-based bars provide a good mix of all the nutrients, and even pack in a few grams of fiber, too. They come in many flavors such as Oatmeal Chocolate Chip and Maple Sea Salt.
Protein: 10-12 grams per day
Allergy-friendly: gluten-free, dairy-free. They also offer 3 nut-free, peanut-free flavor options
RXBAR:
You may recognize these bars from their unique packaging that boasts the use of only a few, simple ingredients. These bars can easily be found in almost all grocery stores and tend to be a budget-friendly option. RXBAR bars pack 3-6 grams of fiber per bar and include no added sugars. Some of our favorite flavors include Peanut Butter Chocolate and Blueberry!
Protein: 12 grams per bar
Allergy-friendly: All RXBAR bars are gluten-free.
Perfect Bars (Keep Refrigerated!)
These bars are perfect for all of our peanut butter lovers out there! There are also 2 flavor options for those who prefer almond butter or have a peanut allergy. These bars are unique in that they have to stay refrigerated making them a fun summer snack! Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter is our personal fave!
Protein: 12-17 grams per bar
Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free.
Honey Stinger Nut + Seed Bars
If you are an athlete, you may be familiar with this brand because of their energy gels and chews. Honey Stinger also provides 2 delicious flavors of their Nut + Seed bars: Almond Pumpkin and Peanut Sunflower.
Protein: 14 grams per bar
Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free
KIND Bars
Another budget friendly option that we love is KIND Bars! Whether you like the original nut bars, the breakfast bars or the protein bars, this brand is a great choice when choosing a balanced bar. Some of our favorites are the Caramel Almond + Sea Salt bar and the Crunchy Peanut Butter Protein Bar.
Protein: 4-20 grams of protein (depends on the type)
Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free, and most are dairy-free (check those labels!)
We didn’t forget about the kiddos! Here are some of our favorites:
Bobo’s Bites: Bobo’s Bites are the perfect, yummy snack for your littles. These oat bites come in several different flavors. Enjoy the staple Chocolate Chip Oat Bites or branch out with the Lemom Poppy Seed Oat flavor!
Protein: 2-3 grams per serving
Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free and dairy-free. They do offer a few peanut/tree nut free options.
Mini Clif Bars/Clif Kid Z Bars: Clif bars are a classic, and kids can enjoy them too! The Mini Clif Bars and the Clif Kid Z bars are the perfect option. Let your kiddos explore the different flavors to find their favorite.
Protein: 2-5 grams per bar
Allergy-friendly: These bars are NOT allergy friendly. They contain gluten, peanuts/tree nuts, and traces of dairy.
Mini Perfect Bars (Keep Refrigerated!): These Mini Perfect Bars come in 3 delicious flavors: Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter (my favorite!), Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter, and plain ole Peanut Butter. Remember, these bars have to be refrigerated!
Protein: 5-6 grams per bar
Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free.
I hope you found this guide to be helpful, and that it will help relieve some stress in the snack aisle! Try different flavors and brands to find your new favorite grab-n-go snack that will keep you fueled and satisfied!