Best Protein Bars for Women (2024): RD-Reviewed and Approved for All Needs

Let’s clear the air: Everyone can enjoy the best protein bars, including the expert-tested and approved options we’ll discuss here. The benefits of protein for health and performance—and, importantly, for keeping us alive—are universal.

However, the best protein bars for women address specific dietary needs, eating habits, and lifestyle factors like pregnancy. Whether your goal is muscle-building or simply boosting your protein intake, our expert team has raised the bar once again. We’ve tested dozens of these ourselves to assess taste and texture. As a registered dietitian, I’ll also provide insight on these bars in conjunction with a fellow R.D. Without further ado, here are our favorite protein bars for women (and people of any gender).

The 11 Best Protein Bars for Women in 2024

• Best Protein Bars for Women Overall: RXBar
• Best Clean Protein Bars for Women: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars
• Best Protein Bars for Women for Building Muscle: Legion Protein Bars
• Best Crunchy Protein Bars for Women: Promix Protein Puff Bars
• Best Tasting Protein Bars for Women: Quest Bar
• Best Budget Protein Bars for Women: Pure Protein Bars
• Best Plant-Based Protein Bars for Women: Orgain Protein Snack Bar
• Best Low-Carb Protein Bars for Women: EPIC Protein Bars
• Best High-Protein Protein Bars for Women: CLIF Builders Bar
• Best Protein Bars for Women for Pregnancy: ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars
• Best Protein Bars for Women for Recovery: Honey Stinger Nut + Seed Bar

Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Protein Bars for Women

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best protein bars for women available today, we’ve tested over 50 different profiles across some of the industry’s most trusted brands, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

For further information on how we trial and test the products chosen for this guide and more, be sure to read the BarBend Supplement Testing Methodology page.

• Macros: At least 10 grams of protein per bar is ideal, yet we call out if it contains fewer. We also included options that have fiber, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to accommodate various needs, whether for additional appetite regulation (from fiber and fat) or quick energy to fuel and replenish your muscles (carbs). (1)(2) 
• Ingredient quality and variety: A protein bar is only as good as its ingredients, so we prioritize those formulated with high-quality, natural ingredients—like egg whites and grass-fed whey protein isolate. We also included a variety to honor various dietary preferences and restrictions, such as being plant-based, free of common allergens like peanuts, and devoid of artificial sweeteners that can cause digestive distress. (3) 
• Taste: While taste is subjective, we aim to provide various flavors—from fruity to chocolatey to nutty—that we hope will appeal to most. If you’ve ever had an “I-rather-waste money-than-eat-this” protein bar, you know what we mean.
• Texture: Just like taste, texture is subjective. Our selections vary in consistency—whether fudgy, soft, crispy, or (dare we say) moist—to satisfy most preferences.
• Accessibility: We believe everyone should have access to supplements that can help them reach their fitness and health goals. Our top pick lists accommodate a range of budgets, and you can readily find most of our top picks online or at grocery stores, airports, and gas stations.

Best Protein Bars for Women Overall: RXBar

If one bar stands out for its natural, whole-food ingredients, it’s RXBAR. Each RXBAR’s formulation shines right on the front packaging in a tidy, recognizable list—no B.S. included. These bars have a lot going for them, so let’s dive in.

[Related: Best Protein Powders for Women]

RXBARs provide 12 grams of protein from egg whites, a complete protein source with all essential amino acids—the building blocks of protein we must obtain from dietary food sources or supplements. (4) Egg whites also boast a perfect amino acid score of 100 and the highest net protein utilization rate, which refers to the dietary protein the body digests and retains. (5)(6) All this to say, egg whites are protein powerhouses, offering benefits for strength, metabolic health, and disease prevention. (5)

The bars provide 4 to 6 grams of dietary fiber to support digestive, heart, and overall health. For context, the recommended daily intake for cis women* is 25 grams. Some flavors offer up to 10 percent of cis women’s daily iron needs to support menstruation and pregnancy as blood volume increases. 

*Since the dominant research focuses on cis people’s needs, trans and nonbinary people may want to check in with a trans-affirming nutrition coach or physician regarding their recommended nutrition intake levels.

“I’ve had multiple RXBars over the years,” says our tester. “Taste-wise, they’re enjoyable enough that I wouldn’t be mad to find them in my lunch, but wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to purchase one.” They rated the taste a 4 out of 5. 

RXBARs contain up to 10 grams of fat, 24 grams of carbs, and 18 grams of sugar, albeit from natural sources like dates. While the macro breakdown could be more protein-forward, RXBARs manage to taste great without the need for sugar alcohols or other additives. Our tester found these bars kept them satiated between meals without tummy troubles, earning a perfect 5 for side effects.

When it comes to the texture of the bar, our tester noted a slightly oily exterior. “I highly recommend eating it with the wrapper still intact. Chewing-wise, I do appreciate the blend of soft and crunchy made possible through the nuts. It’s also definitely softer than other bars I’ve had.” They gave RXBARs a 4 out of 5 for texture.

Read our full RXBAR Review.

Best Clean Protein Bars for Women: Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars

While there’s no standardized definition of “clean,” Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars could be the poster child with its simple and pronounceable ingredient list. Like all Transparent Labs products (and like the best clean protein powders), these bars are free from artificial sweeteners, coloring, and preservatives. We rate their “clean” formula a 4.5 out of 5 stars, but let’s dig into what’s on and underneath the wrapper.

Each bar provides 15 grams of protein from egg white protein and grass-fed whey protein isolate, both rich in essential amino acids. (7) If you’re curious about the difference between grass-fed whey vs. regular whey, grass-fed contains more nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and E. However, these nutrients may be removed during processing, and research on whether the extra cost is justified is inconclusive.

The bar’s other natural ingredients—like peanut butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, dates, rolled oats, and coconut oil—contribute 16 grams of fat, 23 grams of carbs, 10 grams of sugar, and 3 grams of fiber. Sea salt adds 280 milligrams of sodium, which is worth noting if you monitor sodium intake.

The combination of these ingredients pleasantly surprised our tester, who noted they actually taste like peanut butter and chocolate. They raved about the “absolutely delicious” melty-worthy chocolate and appreciated that the dates balanced the slight dryness with a delightful chew, giving the bars a 4 out of 5 for flavor and texture.

Transparent Labs suggests enjoying the bars anytime for a healthy snack or meal but encourages consuming post-workout or when you need a whole-food meal but are short on time. Though balanced with protein, fiber, and fat, the 15 grams of protein falls short of the International Society of Sports Nutrition’s recommendation of at least 20 grams to maximize muscle protein synthesis. Still, these bars are a satisfying and convenient option. (5)

To echo our tester’s final thought, “The formula is clean, which is a major selling point,” particularly if the higher-cost bars fit your budget. At up to $3.33 per bar, we rate them a 3 out of 5 for cost.

Best Protein Bars for Women for Building Muscle: Legion Protein Bars

No matter your gender, protein and resistance training are essential for muscle-building. Legion protein bars provide 240 to 250 calories and 20 grams of protein from whey protein concentrate, milk protein isolate, and whey protein isolate, all rich in essential (EAA) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) for muscle repair and growth. Plus, a 20-gram serving of protein can help maximize muscle protein synthesis.

BarBend expert reviewer Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, M.S., R.D.N., L.D., appreciates the bar’s solid mix of protein, carbs, and fat. Our tester found the macro combo satisfying. However, Bourgeois notes some ingredient drawbacks, resulting in a 4 out of 5 rating for formulation. 

“The 4 grams of sugar exceed 15 percent of the recommended daily limit for women, and the sugar alcohol erythritol may cause digestive upset in some consumers,” Bourgeois says. “Additionally, consider that there is 12 grams of fat per serving if protein is your priority.”

As for taste, our tester tried the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor and felt the chocolate overpowered the peanut butter, which was mostly noticeable in the aftertaste. The bar’s density might be challenging for those with sensitive teeth. 

“Thankfully, the bar softened when I could finally break off a chunk,” our tester notes, adding that the puffed crisps and chocolate chunks enhanced the mouthfeel. In our testing, Legion earned a 3 out of 5 for texture and a 3.5 out of 5 for taste.

On a positive note, Bourgeois loves that the bars undergo third-party testing. This means they are tested for purity, contain what they claim, and are free from banned substances, a critical factor for competitive athletes.

Best Crunchy Protein Bars for Women: Promix Protein Puff Bars

“Crunchy” doesn’t often describe protein bars, but Promix Protein Puff Bars offer a satisfying contrast to the usual chewy options. They give us those Rice Krispies Treat vibes while delivering a high-quality dose of protein and dietary fiber.

Our tester tried the Chocolate variety, which reminded them of their favorite lunchtime snack: the beloved chocolate-flavored Rice Krispies Treat. The texture, though a little gritty, met expectations and wasn’t overbearing. “It’s a definitive reprieve from the traditional chewy or dry bars,” they said, giving it a perfect 5 for flavor and 4.5 out of 5 for texture.

Each Promix Puff Bar provides 15 grams of protein from whey isolate and whey concentrate, supplying all the essential amino acids we need from our diet. It also contains up to 5 grams of added sugar for a 40-gram serving, far less than the 8 grams in a 22-gram Rice Krispies Treat. (8)

Despite being just 150 calories, our tester felt satisfied for an appreciable amount of time, rating it a 4 out of 5 for its effects. “I wouldn’t use this as a meal replacement, but I do love it for an on-the-go snack,” they said. They liked it so much, actually, that they said they are eager to try other flavors, even if they compromise the sweet nostalgia of that midday school cafeteria (Rice Krispy) treat.

Another plus? Promix products undergo third-party testing, and you can view the results of the bars online. 

Best Tasting Protein Bars for Women: Quest Bar

The “Quest” for the best-tasting protein bar, with dozens of flavor options, stops here. Besides, few flavorful protein bars contain up to 21 grams of protein without exceeding 200 calories. Our testers awarded them a 4 out of 5 for taste. It’s evident from countless online reviews as well that the masses tend to love Quest Bars. 

While the flavor options may initially draw you in, the solid macronutrient breakdown might keep you around. The bars average 20 grams of milk protein, so rest easy knowing you’re getting all the essential amino acids we need to obtain from foods. The bars also provide up to 15 grams of dietary fiber (remember this) and never exceed 5 grams of net carbs. 

However, with little sugar and carbs comes a trade-off: Using erythritol enhances sweetness but may cause digestive distress. And remember that fiber? Yes, fiber is beneficial, but the high fiber content may be too much for some to handle all at once. While our tester well-tolerated the bars after eating every few days, they experienced bloat eating one daily consistently for a few days, resulting in a 4 out 5 for side effects. 

The texture may also be a potential drawback, with our tester commenting they’re incredibly dense and chewier than something like RXBARs. They even like chewy textures, but this level might be too much to chew into, resulting in a 3.5 out of 5 for texture. 

All Quest Bars are certified gluten-free, making them a trusted option for individuals managing celiac disease. However, they’re manufactured in a facility that processes peanuts, wheat, and other tree nuts. Also, due to supply chain issues, the bars may now contain the common allergen soy. 

Read our full Quest Protein Bar Review.

Best Budget Protein Bars for Women: Pure Protein Bars

Costing as little as $1.34 per serving on Amazon, Pure Protein is our most cost-effective bar on the list. Not to mention, Pure Protein bars provide a maximum of 200 calories and the highest protein content per serving, ranging from 19 to 21 grams based on the flavor. But there are some trade-offs…

The bars keep the calorie content low using sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners. However, like most Pure Protein Bar fans, our testers thoroughly enjoyed them. Kate Meier, a member of our editorial team and a NASM-certified personal trainer, tried the Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor. “They taste like dessert!” she says, giving them a 4 out of 5 for taste. It should be noted that these contain up to 4 grams of added sugars per serving. (We see you, artificial sweeteners…)

“Texture-wise, these are a lot like candy bars,” Meier says, “but they do leave a bit of a chalky residue in your mouth.” She compared them to Snickers or Milky Way, noting their “nougaty” taste (if that’s a word). Plus, Meier could see herself eating these bars frequently because she likes the taste, a big contrast to her typical experience of enjoying a bar for a few servings before getting tired of it. Overall, Pure Protein Bars earn a 4 out of 5 for texture.

Although Pure Protein Bars have a lengthy list of ingredients, including some less-than-nutritious ones like dyes, they’re undeniably popular and well-received by the masses, just like Pure Protein Natural Whey Protein.

Best Plant-Based Protein Bars for Women: Orgain Protein Snack Bar

As a leading plant-based supplement brand, Orgain delivers with its vegan protein bar, and why we ranked its deconstructed relative as one of the best vegan protein powders. Each bar provides 10 grams of protein, primarily sourced from organic brown rice and pea proteins, ensuring a comprehensive amino acid profile. While it’s lower in protein compared to other bars, it boasts many advantages.

Firstly, each bar is low in calories at just 150, while packing in six grams of prebiotic fiber. Orgain bars are also budget-friendly and come with USDA Organic and non-GMO certifications.

Moreover, Orgain’s plant-based protein bars deliver on taste. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, tried the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough flavor and rated it a perfect 5 for flavor and texture. “There is a touch of dryness and a slight erythritol aftertaste,” they warn. They were impressed by how much they liked it, especially for a vegan protein bar, noting that it actually resembled the cookie dough texture we all know and love—soft, chewy, and doughy.

Overall, Orgain’s protein bars are a solid choice for those seeking a satisfying, plant-based option with the added benefits of organic ingredients and prebiotic fiber.

Best Low-Carb Protein Bars for Women: EPIC Protein Bars

Finding the best low-carb protein bars can feel like quite the hunt. EPIC Bars are a reliable low-carb option with as little as 1 gram of carbs and up to 8 grams per serving. 

EPIC Bars come in 10 different flavors. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, loves all the ones they’ve tried, highlighting their robust yet balanced flavors and scoring EPIC a 5 out of 5 for taste. For recommendations, our tester says, “My top favorite is the Bison Bacon Cranberry, followed closely by Chicken Sriracha and Venison Sea Salt Pepper.”

Regarding texture, the bars vary and may not suit everyone. “There is definitely a meat texture but not exactly like jerky. Although it’s not bad, it is particular,” our tester comments. To guide your choice, the venison bars may be for you if you don’t mind a tougher, drier bar. However, if you prefer a softer texture, go with the beef bars. Overall, EPIC Bars receive a 4 out of 5 for texture.

Most people also well-tolerate EPIC Bars since they’re free from ingredients that may cause digestive distress, such as dairy and artificial sweeteners. Our tester didn’t experience any adverse effects, giving EPIC a perfect 5 for side effects.

However, it’s important to note that these bars vary in their nutritional content. Generally, leaner proteins (like chicken) contain fewer calories and fat, while fattier meats (like pork) contain the most. The bars also contain a large amount of sodium (300 to 760 milligrams), so anyone watching their intake might consider another alternative. 

EPIC Bars are a convenient way to enjoy meat-based protein without the worry of spoiling. Plus, unlike most protein bars, they offer savoriness and make a great accompaniment to sliced veggies and fruit. 

Read our full Epic Protein Bars Review.

Best High-Protein Protein Bars for Women: CLIF Builders Bar

Offering 20 grams of protein and up to 290 calories, CLIF Builders Bar is a solid option if you want a heftier dose of protein. Plus, they’re the only option on our list with soy protein as the primary protein source. (9) 

Soy protein is a complete protein, supplying all essential amino acids—an uncommon trait among popular plant proteins. Additionally, soy protein offers many benefits for pre- and post-menopausal people, such as mitigating muscle loss and improving cholesterol levels to support a healthy heart. (10) (And, as we know, soy really does not affect testosterone levels.)

However, these protein benefits are accompanied by some downsides. The bars market themselves as low-glycemic, suggesting a slower blood glucose (sugar) rise. Although the 20 grams of protein and 11 grams of fat (6 of them saturated) may slow the glycemic response, the bars contain a hefty 17 grams of added sugar. For context, the American Heart Association recommends cis women consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar daily, so you can see where we’re going with this… (11) 

With so much added sugar, you might expect the Mint Chocolate Chip flavor to taste, as our tester notes, “pretty similar to a candy bar!” 

“They have a drier texture and a ‘protein-y’ taste,” they noted, which is typical with high protein content. Our tester recommends that you refrigerate the bar to elevate your experience. Despite its high sugar and fat content, these bars are budget-friendly and tasty to most consumers. They earned a 5 out of 5 for taste and a 4.5 out of 5 for texture from our tester.

Overall, CLIF Builders Bar stands out for its substantial protein content and unique use of soy protein, making it a viable option for those seeking a high-protein, plant-based snack.

Best Protein Bars for Women for Pregnancy: ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars

While there are many common myths about pregnancy and strength training, protein is essential to support the health of both birthing parent and baby, whether you’re lifting or not. With 16 flavors to choose from—from Chocolate Cookie Dough to Pumpkin Spice to Peppermint White Chocolate—there’s bound to be an ALOHA bar to satisfy that sweet tooth and craving.

Although plant proteins may lack all essential amino acids, combining brown rice and pumpkin seed proteins for a comprehensive amino acids profile. (12)(13). Plus, the various nuts and seeds offer plant-based protein and amino acids.

Most flavors also provide 10 grams of fiber, and research supports that an adequate daily intake of 28 grams during pregnancy supports gut health, digestion, and blood sugar control. This, in turn, lowers the risk of constipation, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy). (14) 

Our tester tried the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, rating it 4.5 out of 5, and the Chocolate Mint, giving it a 4 out of 5. “The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough was thoroughly enjoyable, while the Chocolate Mint resembled a York Peppermint Patty—though the mint flavor was a bit overpowering,” they said. The texture received a 4 out of 5, noted for its very soft chew, perfect for those who enjoy fudgy bars.

It’s important to mention that the Chocolate Espresso flavor contains 85 milligrams of caffeine, and defining a safe dose for caffeine intake during pregnancy is challenging. While the American College of Obstetricians Gynecologists suggests moderating caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day (about two cups of coffee) doesn’t appear concerning, intake below this level is associated with adverse effects like pregnancy loss and low birth weight. (15)(16) 

All this to say, we strongly advise discussing personal needs and express any concerns with your doctor.

To tie this bundle of info in a bow, our tester summarizes, “If you’re looking for a balanced macro count, I feel you can do better with a different protein option. If you’re looking for a ‘healthier’ guilty pleasure, though, I’ve been very pleased with the texture and flavor offered in this bar.” 

As a dietitian, I totally agree.

Best Protein Bars for Women for Recovery: Honey Stinger Nut + Seed Bar

Known for offering some of the best energy gels to power enduring training, Honey Stinger is now stepping into the recovery game with its Nut + Seed Bar. If you train hard, you need to recover harder, and the right balance of protein, carbs, fats, and micronutrients can help you do just that.

Each bar provides 14 grams of protein from whey protein and milk protein isolates, delivering all essential amino acids (EAAs) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) critical for muscle growth and repair. The 21 grams of carbs help restore glycogen levels depleted during training, and the combination of protein and carbs can further reduce muscle damage after a tough workout. (17) (18) 

These bars are rich in fat, supplying 15 to 16 grams per serving, depending on the flavor. While we would prefer less use of oils contributing to the 3 grams of saturated fat, we appreciate the inclusion of various nuts and seeds—like almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds—which offer healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. 

Plus, although the benefits of dietary fat for recovery are less well-known, it appears to play a role in glycogen resynthesis. (19). At a minimum, fat provides calories, supports hormone health to optimize recovery, and enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, which have anti-inflammatory properties. (20) 

Honey Stinger’s recovery bars are also formulated with a fruit and mushroom blend, boosting their micronutrient content. Specifically, they provide vitamins A, B6, C, D, and E, which may help lower inflammation and maintain strong immunity.

Although the BarBend team has yet to taste these bars themselves, they have garnered almost 300 reviews on Amazon with a 4.4 rating. Most reviews are positive, highlighting the bars’ satisfying contrasts—salty and sweet, crunchy and chewy—and their satiety factor. Some dissatisfied reviews seem to be related to quality control issues on Amazon’s part, such as receiving stale or expired bars.

Overall, Honey Stinger’s Nut + Seed Bar looks promising for anyone looking to enhance their recovery post-training.

Benefits of Protein Bars for Women

Protein bars offer multiple benefits for women, including boosting protein and nutrient intake, building muscle, aiding weight loss, and providing convenience. They can also help satisfy afternoon cravings and meet protein needs with ease. Here’s a deeper look into their advantages:

• Boosts protein intake: Women may experience peak hunger and cravings in the early afternoon and snack on fruits and veggies, which can be low in protein. (21) Enjoying a protein bar alongside or in place of these options can satisfy cravings and help meet the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. (22) 
• Provides other essential nutrients: Whether naturally present or intentionally added, protein bars provide other essential nutrients—such as fiber, iron, and calcium—to support women’s health.
• Helps build muscle: Protein is essential for muscle building, especially when combined with resistance training. (23) The International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends 1.4 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for most exercising individuals to build and maintain muscle mass. (5)
• Aids weight loss: The best protein bars for weight loss effectively enhance the feeling of fullness, reducing the risk of overeating and thus aiding in losing weight (just choose a protein bar with minimal fat and sugars to maximize benefits). (24)  Aiming for 1.8 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight can promote fat loss and preserve muscle mass while in a calorie deficit. (25)  
• Offers convenience: Without refrigeration, extra containers to store, and worry of spilling (we still love you, protein powder), a bar is highly portable and convenient: Throw in a gym bag, backpack, purse, or even a pocket for a seamless, satisfying dose of protein. 

How Much Do Protein Bars for Women Cost?

According to our research and top picks, protein bars for women average $2.61 per serving. They range between $1.67 to $3.33 per serving, depending on the brand, formulation, and other features such as third-party testing and certifications.

Best Protein Bars for Women Overall	RXBAR	$2.33 per serving
Best Clean Protein Bars for Women	Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein+ Bars	$3.33 per serving
Best Protein Bars for Women for Building Muscle:	Legion Protein Bars	$3.33 per serving
Best Crunchy Protein Bars for Women	Promix Protein Puff Bars	$2.67 per serving
Best Tasting Protein Bars for Women	Quest Bar	$2.79 per serving
Best Budget Protein Bars for Women	Pure Protein Bars	$1.67 per serving
Best Plant-Based Protein Bars for Women	Orgain Protein Snack Bar	$2.00 per serving
Best Low-Carb Protein Bars for Women	EPIC Protein Bars	$2.67 per serving
Best High-Protein Protein Bars for Women	CLIF Builders Bar	$2.12 per serving
Best Protein Bars for Women for Pregnancy	ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars	$2.75 per serving
Best Protein Bars for Women for Recovery	Honey Stinger Nut + Seed Bar	$3.00 per serving

What to Consider Before Buying Protein Bars for Women

Here’s the thing: the best protein bars for women are not confined to this list, and the bars listed are not readily available when you’re out and about. Lean on these practical tips before purchasing the right protein bar for you.

• Macros: Look for bars that best align with your goals. They should contain protein, but if you enjoy one before a workout, you might want a bar with carbs to fuel your training. Conversely, a bar with more fat and calories may keep you satiated until your next meal.
• Additional Ingredients: While the protein source and content should be the highlight, many protein bars contain additional ingredients that can be beneficial or not. For instance, you might appreciate added fiber in some bars or already get enough from your diet. If you have a sensitive stomach or prefer “cleaner” products, steer clear of sugar alcohols, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and fillers. (3) 
• Dietary Restrictions and Preferences: Select a protein bar that aligns with your dietary restrictions and preferences, such as lactose-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and organic options. Keep in mind that protein bars often contain (or may be cross-contaminated with common allergens) like milk, tree nuts, soy, and peanuts.
• Budget: Evaluate how much you’re willing to spend on protein bars. Pro tip: If you’re confident in the product, take advantage of subscribe-and-save deals and bulk offerings, as individual bars at gas stations and airports can be wildly expensive. 
• Flavor and Texture: The flavor and texture of a protein bar can make or break the experience, and who wants to choke down one that’s dry and bland? Choose a bar that satisfies your palate, whether fruity and chewy or offers an indulgent crunch. If you’re new to a brand or flavor, lean on round-ups like this one and online reviews to guide your choice.

Best Protein Bars for Women FAQs

References

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2. Margolis, L.M, Allen, J.T, Hatch-McChesney, A., Pasiakos, S.M.. (2021, February 1). Coingestion of Carbohydrate and Protein on Muscle Glycogen Synthesis after Exercise: A Meta-analysis. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2021 Feb 1;53(2):384-393. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000002476. PMID: 32826640; PMCID: PMC7803445. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7803445/
3. Ruiz-Ojeda, F.J., Plaza-Díaz, J., Sáez-Lara, M.J., Gil, A. (2019, April 1). Effects of Sweeteners on the Gut Microbiota: A Review of Experimental Studies and Clinical Trials. Adv Nutr. 11(2):468. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6363527/ 
4. Lopez, M.J., Mohiuddin, S.S. (2024, April 30). Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids. StatPearls Publishing. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32496725/ 
5. Jäger R., Kerksick C.M., Campbell B.I., Cribb P.J., Wells S.D., Skwiat T.M., Purpura M., Ziegenfuss T.N., Ferrando A.A., Arent S.M., Smith-Ryan A.E., Stout J.R., Arciero P.J., Ormsbee M.J., Taylor L.W., Wilborn C.D., Kalman D.S., Kreider R.B., Willoughby D.S., Hoffman J.R., Krzykowski J.L., Antonio J. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. JISSN. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8 
6. (2014). Net Protein Utilization. Reference Module in Biomedical Sciences. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/net-protein-utilization 
7. Kadam, B., Ambadkar, R., Rathod, K., Landge, S. (2018). Health Benefits of Whey: A Brief Review. Int J Livest Res. 8(5):31. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324826677_Health_Benefits_of_Whey_A_Brief_Review 
8. Kellogg’s® Rice Krispies Treats® Original Bars. Kellogg’s®. https://smartlabel.kelloggs.com/Product/Index/00038000265013 
9. (2023). Soy Protein.  Sustainable Development and Pathways for Food Ecosystems. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/soy-protein
10. Moradi, M., Daneshzad, E., Azadbakht, L. (2020) The effects of isolated soy protein, isolated soy isoflavones and soy protein containing isoflavones on serum lipids in postmenopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. ;60(20):3414-3428. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31858808/ 
11. (2024, May 23). How Much Sugar Is Too Much? The American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much 
12. Jayaprakash, G., Bains, A., Chawla, P., Fogarasi, M., Fogarasi, S. (2022, July 25). A Narrative Review on Rice Proteins: Current Scenario and Food Industrial Application. Polymers (Basel). (15):3003. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9370113/ 
13. Mazloomi-Kiyapey, S.N., Sadeghi-Mahoonak, A., Ranjbar-Nedamani, E., Nourmohammadi, E. (2019, September 15). Production of antioxidant peptides through hydrolysis of medicinal pumpkin seed protein using pepsin enzyme and the evaluation of their functional and nutritional properties. ARYA Atheroscler.(5):218-227. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6954355/ 
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