Protein Bars — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Protein bars nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 360 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 40 g | 14.55% |
| Fiber | 5 g | 17.86% |
| Sugars | 15 g | 30% |
| Glycemic Index | 40 | - |
| Protein | 30 g | 60% |
| Sodium | 200 mg | 8.7% |
| Total Fat | 10 g | 12.82% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
30 g
💪 High Protein Content
5 g
🥔 Good Fiber Content
Protein bars facts & tips
Health benefits
- High in protein, supporting muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Convenient and portable, making them a quick and easy snack option for on-the-go nutrition.
- Can contain fiber if made with whole grains or added fibers, promoting digestive health.
- Provides sustained energy from a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
Health risks
- High sugar content in many commercial protein bars, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, particularly as a snack or meal replacement.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or sweeteners in some protein bars, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Potential for digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, or stomach cramps, particularly in bars high in fiber or sugar alcohols.
- Low nutrient density in some protein bars that rely on refined ingredients, offering limited vitamins or minerals compared to whole food options.
How to choose protein bars
Protein bars should have a dense texture and maintain their shape without being overly hard or crumbly. The packaging should be intact and the bars should not have any visible oil stains, suggesting they are fresh and properly stored.
Avoid protein bars that are overly dry or have a white coating, which can indicate age or heat exposure. Bars that are sticky or have an off smell should also be avoided, as they may not provide optimal nutritional benefits.
How to store protein bars
Protein bars should be stored at room temperature in their original packaging or an airtight container. This helps maintain their texture and flavor for several months.
Air exposure can cause protein bars to become hard. Avoid leaving them uncovered, and always reseal the packaging tightly. Proper storage keeps them fresh and ready to eat, maintaining their nutritional value.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Protein bars can last for 6-12 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For the best quality, consume them within this time frame. Proper storage helps maintain their freshness and nutritional value.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover protein bars can be used in a variety of quick and nutritious dishes. Crumble them and use as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls for added crunch and protein, or mix them into a parfait with layers of fruit and whipped cream. Protein bars are also great when chopped and added to trail mix with nuts, dried fruits, and chocolate.
Use protein bars as a base for energy bites by mixing the crumbled bars with honey, oats, and seeds, then rolling into balls and chilling until set. If you have a lot of protein bars, consider making a batch of protein bar cookies by mixing the crumbled bars into a cookie dough with chocolate chips and nuts. Protein bars can also be blended into a smoothie with milk and fruit for a quick and filling drink, or used as a topping for ice cream or pudding. For a quick snack, enjoy protein bars on their own, or dip them in peanut butter or yogurt for an extra treat.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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