Are protein bars healthy? What to look for in a healthy protein bar

Protein bars remain probably the most stable workout-meets-everyday snack, dominating the food world since the mid 00s (except for a noticeable dip during Covid, which is understandable as there was nothing to do).

However, many people often end up buying protein bars simply because they *think* they’re good for them, or because they think they look healthier by eating them.

Flash forward, and you’ve got a mountain of protein bars gathering dust because you decided that, actually, it won’t ever replace the great taste of a chocolate bar or the satisfaction of a piece of cake, thick with icing.

So, what should you be looking for in a healthy protein bar? Here, we pick through the particulars of your favourite protein-rich products.

What to look for in a healthy protein bar – and what to avoid

Protein bars are very rarely completely natural, so you are bound to find ingredients that you wouldn’t ordinarily find in your kitchen cupboard. I know, on the surface, that is bound to ring alarm bells to anyone who is looking to eat wholesomely and healthily – and especially if you are following a Low FODMAP lifestyle – but don’t despair. There is a spectrum of very very unhealthy protein bars and those which include as many good ingredients as possible for the maximum possible protein benefit.

Firstly, let’s start with what makes an unhealthy protein bar. The worst ingredients you will want to avoid in any protein bar are:

Related: How to use the Glycemic Index chart to curb sugar cravings

These ingredients will spike your blood sugar, making you crave that chocolate bar anyway, and cause you to gain unnecessary weight from a supposed ‘healthy’ protein bar. (Mars, Snickers, et al protein bars are really bad for you – avoid them, they contain all of the above and then some!)

As such, you probably don’t want to be eating these kind of protein bars as a snack, let alone as a meal replacement or, heaven forbid, breakfast.

Instead, look for the following ingredients in a healthier protein bar:

• Milk proteins as the FIRST ingredient
• Low sugar or no sugar
• Some kind of fibre, nuts or seeds are ideal
• Whole milk powder – if you’re going to eat some fat, you’re better off with it coming from whole milk than palm fat

And last but not least, make sure they taste good to you! There is no point buying a load of protein bars only for you to use them as decoration. Eat them and enjoy them!

Feel like you know what you’re looking for now? Here are some of the best protein bars for your gut and waistline to get you started:

Barebells – Best protein bar for satisfaction

A flavour sensation! With no added sugar, absolutely tonnes of protein and incredible like-for-like with your favourite chocolate bar, Barebells are easily one of my favourites – if not *the favourite* – protein bar with no added sugar around at the mo. If there is anything you do before you die, try the Peanut Caramel bars, they’re a dreaaaam. The packaging is also super cute.

Fodbods – Best protein bar for your gut

These are so delightful. Nuts are the main component in the Fodbods range, naturally upping the protein percentage and giving a delicious textural quality that helps to fill you up for longer. Try the Raspberry and Coconut ones if you’re a fan of a Bounty bar!

They are also specially designed to be kind to your gut and are plant-based without scrimping on protein. Perfect!

Boost Balls – Best protein bar for natural ingredients

Okay, these are a ball and not a bar but IT DOESN’T MATTER. They’re still delicious and a fantastic snack to have on the go. I wrote about them a while ago and I still eat them all the time. My top flavour is the Peanut Butter Cup one which comes protein-loaded with peanut butter (what else?) and peanut powder. The natural sweeteners and organic ingredients simply elevate this snack to a whole new level of protein prestige.