Are Protein Bars Secretly Making You Fat?

Dr. Nick Galante, M.D. - Certified Medical Doctor (M.D.) Harvard Medical School

There are literally hundreds of protein bars on the market. Each one makes claims of great taste and amazing health benefits. Unfortunately more often than not, both the taste and health claims leave something to be desired.

The most important thing to look for in a protein bar is its carbohydrate and sugar content. Since many are marketed to endurance athletes, they can come absolutely brimming with carbs and sugar. First, the amount of carbohydrates should never exceed the amount or protein. Second, there should be less than 10 grams of sugar. If some of the sugars are sugar alcohols, this number can be higher.

A quick side note about sugar alcohols: Many people think sugar alcohols have no calories or aren’t absorbed, which is just not true. They have less calories than glucose but still come in somewhere better 2-3 calories per gram.

Next, look at the fat content. Often there are many unhealthy saturated fats and oils added to these bars. The lower the fat content, the better. The kind of fat is also important as you want to stay away from Saturated Fats.

Last, look at the protein content. How much is in there? Some bars tote high protein and then put in only 6 or 8 grams. That’s like eating two slices of bread. There should be at least 10 if not 15 grams per bar to actually be considered “high” protein. Next, what kind is it? Whey is ideal. It’s faster digesting than soy and also more easily and completely absorbed.

Here are some protein bars that are low in sugar, have favorable protein to card ratios, aren’t loaded with bad fats and taste decent (we’re still talking about protein bars after all):
Pure Protein Bars

Detour. 2:1 Bars

Supreme Protein Bars

Click here to learn more about what protein bars to eat.