
12 Best Protein Bars You Can Buy, According to Dietitians

When to eat it: You’re craving dessert.
Why they’re great: It can be challenging to find a protein bar that satisfies your sweet tooth (and hunger) without a crazy amount of added sugar and chalky aftertaste. That’s why Quest Bars are a great pick: They come in some childhood favorite flavors like birthday cake, chocolate chip cookie dough, and cookies & cream, maxing out at just one to two grams of the sweet stuff.
Our fave flavor: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough. Throw it in the microwave for 10 seconds to make a better-for-you alternative to the real thing, suggests Mangieri. (200 cal, 21 g pro, 21 g carb, 14 g fiber, 1 g sugars (0 g added sugars), 9 g fat (3 g sat fat), 200 mg sodium)
When to eat it: You’re going on a long hike or bike ride.
Why they’re great: While this bar is much higher in sugar, those extra carbs are important for a quick energy boost if you’re doing long-distance exercise, says Mangieri. And unlike many other bars, they won’t become a melted mess two miles into your sweaty trek (unless you grab the chocolate chip flavor.) Opt for a different bar that is lower in sugar and calories if you’re looking for a lazy snack.
Our fave flavor: Peanut Butter Banana with Dark Chocolate ( 260 cal, 10 g pro, 41 g carb, 4 g fiber, 21 g sugars (19 g added sugars), 7 g fat ( 2 g sat fat), 260 mg sodium)