The Right Protein Bar for Your Needs

Sometimes we don’t feel like having a protein shake. We want a little crunch—something to chew on instead of drinking our protein all the time. That’s when I refer my clients to protein bars. Today this blog post discusses two different types protein bars: high fiber vs. low fiber, macronutrients, benefits, and who I refer protein bars too.

Here’s the catch:

Like yogurt, protein bars can contain added sugars our bodies do not need (aka store excess added sugar consumption as fat—primarily around our mid sections; what us health freaks like to call visceral fat) Learn more about added sugars HERE. As fitness nutritionist it is my duty to find the best brands and where to grocery shop to fit you and your families needs.

Side note: all products listed are gluten free; however, you will see that not all gluten free products are quote on quote “healthy”.

Who I refer Protein Bars Too:

Protein bars are different then fruit and nut bars (KIND Bars), Endurance bars (Cliff Bars), and candy bars (Snickers) (<--had to throw that one in there).

Like protein shakes, they come in handy when living the “Busy-Bee” on-the-go lifestyle, perfect for after sport/activity snack for your athletic child, or when you’re craving a candy bar. For myself, I consume both protein shakes, fruit and nut bars and protein bars because each one is unique and has their own benefits my body can utilize in certain situations. For example, protein shakes are my go-to when baking (protein pancakes and mug cakes), mix in with my yogurt, and when I want to make smoothies or shakes. Protein bars are there for me when I need a little crunch and something to hold me over until my next meal! Perfect for when I am sitting in class after or before my workout, driving home from work/school and forgot my food, training clients, etc. I need to stay fueled and therefore these are great options for when times get tough!

High vs. Low Fiber Bars:

Recently, protein bar companies have taken action for the low consumption of fiber United States consumes. According to the FDA, average U.S. fiber intake for women is 14 grams/day; men 17 grams/day (1). Daily Value (on food labels) is 25 grams for 2000 Calorie diet. Therefore, we need to increase our fiber consumption and can do that with Protein Bar!

High Fiber Protein Bars great for individuals looking too:

Fuel-Up post workout (especially active adults)
Increase fiber intake
Low carbohydrate diet (net carbs average out to 3-4 grams per bar)
Quick snack when times get hectic
Craving something sweet and crunchy

Low Fiber Protein Bars great for individuals looking too:

Fuel-Up post workout (especially athletic children)
Quick snack/meal when times get hectic
Craving something sweet and crunchy

Take note in the protein/sugar content ratio. Pure Protein bars 3 grams Sugar with 21 grams Protein, where Zone Perfect has 15 grams Sugar with 14 grams Protein.

Now my question for you....which one would you choose?

Recap:

Remember to pick protein bar low in sugar and higher in protein
Proteins bars (both low and high in fiber) great for “Busy-Bee” on-the-go lifestyle that need a quick snack or meal.
Gluten Free does not mean quote on quote “healthy”
Kirkland bars are only sold at Costco.
You can find Pure Protein bars online or in grocery store near you!
Read your labels and ask questions from trainer and nutritionist!