This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
SheFinds receives commissions for purchases made through the links in this post.
When we aren’t getting enough protein from our diets, many of us reach for a protein bar–but not all protein bars are good for you. If you didn’t already know that, we’re sorry to break it to you. The very unfortunate reality of many different protein bars is that they do more harm than good for your fitness goals.
But that doesn’t mean they are all are bad, you just have to know how to spot the good ones! Protein is an essential part of everybody’s diet and is especially important when you’re working out. Not only does protein help you build muscle, but it also helps stabilize your metabolic rate and hormonal health.
It can be hard to figure out what “health foods” are actually healthy and which are a bunch of empty promises. Kylene Bogden, M.S., R.D.N., C.S.S.D., registered dietitian nutritionist with the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine advises that you watch out for protein bars that contain more than 30 grams of sugar and have ingredients like trans-fat, high-fructose corn syrup, sugar alcohols, and other unnatural additives.
For nutritionist-approved protein bar recommendations, check out the snacks below:
Pure Bar Chocolate Brownie Bar, 1.7 OZ ($16.27)
If you're craving a chocolate bar, this protein bar tastes just like a brownie. It's made of organic ingredients and is gluten-free and vegan. Plus, it only has 0.5 grams of saturated fat.
Gnu Foods Cinnamon Raisin Fiber Bars, 1.6 oz ($30.61)
This protein bar contains 12 grams of fiber, that's 50 percent of your daily fiber intake. That means it's more likely to keep you fuller, longer. They only have 130-140 calories each and come in seven flavors.
Luna Whole Nutrition Bar Lemonzest ($5.78)
Luna Bars come in a variety of yummy flavor combinations. They contain the vitamins and nutrients every woman needs in a balanced diet and offer 8 grams of protein.
KIND Protein Double Dark Chocolate Nut Nutrition Bars ($6.39)
Kind bars are made of all-natural ingredients like nuts, fruits, and whole grains to provide you with essential nutrients. They're high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and Vitamin A, C, and E.
