Finding the best low-carb protein bars can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless options on the market, figuring out which bars truly deliver on taste, nutrition, and value can feel like a daunting task. That’s where our comprehensive review comes in – we’ve done the homework for you by meticulously testing many brands to identify the top-of-the-line options.

From the gym enthusiast seeking to refuel after a tough workout to the health-conscious individual looking to maintain a balanced diet on the  go, our roundup covers a wide spectrum of needs and preferences. With an emphasis on quality ingredients, solid macronutrient profiles, and delicious flavors, we’ve curated the best low-carb protein bars that promise to elevate your taste buds and your nutrition regimen. 

The 10 Best Low-Carb Protein Bars of 2024

Best Low-Carb Protein Bars Overall: IQ Bar

Best Budget Low-Carb Protein Bars: Onnit Protein Bites

Best Gluten-Free Low-Carb Protein Bars: Promix Protein Puff Bars

Best High-Protein Low-Carb Protein Bars: EPIC Protein Bars

Best Tasting Low-Carb Protein Bars: Quest Bar

Best Vegan Low-Carb Protein Bars: BHU Foods Vegan Protein Bars

Best Dairy-Free Low-Carb Protein Bars: No Cow Dipped Bars

Best Crunchy Low-Carb Protein Bars: KIND Zero Snack Bars

Best Meal Replacement Low-Carb Protein Bars: Original Keto Bars

Best Low-Calorie Low-Carb Protein Bars: Core Foods Brownie Bites

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 Low-Carb Protein Bars

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best low-carb protein bars available today, we’ve tested over 50 different profiles from the industry’s best 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.

Formulation: Our testers scored each product on its ingredient quality. A high-quality formulation should consist of a short and simple list of ingredients with none of those low-grade fillers unless there are other ingredients added for added nutritional value, such as vitamins, minerals, or fiber. 

Protein Source: The protein source is also critical – some people prefer whey protein, which may help with muscle gains, while others prefer plant-based sources like pea protein. (1) 

Macronutrients: We also evaluated the overall macronutrient profile of each pick on this list: protein, carbohydrates, and fat per bar. A high-quality protein bar supplies you with the protein content you’re looking for without loading up on excessive carbs or fat. For individuals following a keto diet, protein bars low in net carbs may also be helpful – although not net carbs are total carbs minus dietary fiber. (2) 

Calories: The calorie content per bar was also considered in our testing since these are often consumed for specific health goals such as weight loss, weight management, or building muscle. If you’re looking for a bar to consume as a snack, you may want a lower-calorie product – and if you’re looking for a meal replacement, you may want something a little more filling with higher calories.

Taste: In search of the best-tasting low-carb protein bar out there, we tested several different flavors for each brand on this list. Then, we chose products that have superior taste to other protein bars so that you can take the guesswork out of your shopping experience. We’ve also listed out all the flavors available for each pick so that you can choose for yourself.

Texture: From chewy to crunchy, we think the texture of protein bars is an important aspect of an enjoyable eating experience. It’s highly subjective, but some people find certain textures to be more satisfying, since chewiness or crunchiness can be perceived as more filling. 

Price and Value: Seeking dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie options? We’ve got you. We also cater to health goals like weight loss or muscle gains with bars containing higher protein or lower calories. Concerning price, a $5 protein bar may be expensive, while a $0.50 one may skimp on quality ingredients.

Effectiveness: For this category, we looked at whether the product sufficiently does what it’s intended to do, although this is dependent on what you’re taking protein bars for. Examples of effectiveness could include whether it keeps you full in between meals or perhaps fuels your athletic performance. We also tested the product for any side effects after consuming the product, such as gastrointestinal symptoms – which can be common in protein bars that contain high quantities of sugar alcohol. (3)

Best Low-Carb Protein Bars Overall: IQ Bar

For general health needs, IQ Bar is an excellent choice out of all the low-carb protein bars out there. IQ Bar is the #1 keto-friendly snack bar for brain and body support, and it’s not hard to see why. With 12 grams of high-quality, plant-based protein from peas, only 9 to 10 grams of carbs (with 2 to 3 grams of net carbs for those following a ketogenic diet), and 8 to 9 grams of a prebiotic fiber blend that helps you stay fuller for longer, IQ Bar has a top-notch formulation that has you covered in between meals and on-the-go. (4) We thought this product could be a little higher in protein content compared to other products on our list, but it does a great job as a snack rather than as a meal replacement.

Another great aspect of this protein bar is the thoughtful ingredients that are added for extra health benefits for general wellness. First, it contains nuts like almonds, which contain “healthy” fats that support your heart health. (5) Second, it contains lion’s mane, which may support brain and cognitive function. (6) Third, it contains coconut oil, which supplies medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are more readily digested and absorbed in your body and also may support brain health. (7) For the quality of ingredients, the price isn’t bad – our testers scored it a high 4 out of 5.

So, is this product too good to be true? Well, this pick scored a 3 out of 5 for taste – which is decent, but could be better. Our tester tried the Chocolate Sea Salt, Peanut Butter Chip, and Almond Butter Chip. “If you’re looking for a low-carb, plant-based protein bar, these are pretty decent, but I thought it had a grassy undernote. None of the ones I tried are stellar in taste, in my opinion,” she states. 

However, if you’re unsure what flavor you might like, you’re in luck. This low-carb protein bar is available in various sample flavors, including a Chocolate and Fruit Lovers Variety, Chocolate Lovers Variety, Fruit Lovers, and a smaller Sampler pack. Ordering the sampler packs is an easy way to identify your favorite flavor – and then, you can order the 36-count packs at a more economical price.

[Related: Best Types of Protein Powder]

Lastly, the texture left a bit to be desired, with a score of 3 out of 5. “I found them to be dry with no coating on the outside, but they do have chips on the inside which helps break up the texture a little bit,” our tester adds. Overall, we thought this product was a good all-around pick if you don’t mind the average ratings on taste and texture.

Best Budget Low-Carb Protein Bars: Onnit Protein Bites

Looking for an economical option to satisfy your sweet tooth while meeting some of your protein needs? We think Onnit Protein Bites might fit the bill. For a 24-pack, this pick only costs $1.41 to $1.66 per bar. Although the protein content isn’t high enough to make it a meal replacement with only 7 to 9 grams of whey and milk isolate protein per bar, it’s a great choice for those looking for a little cheaper option to snack on between meals or when they’re out and about throughout their busy day. 

The formulation also contains nutrients from over 60 plant-based ingredients like guava, avocado, mango, sweet potato, and cassava, to name a few. It also has a high fiber content, which can help you stay fuller longer throughout the day. (4) However, where the formulation lost points in our testing was in the added sugar content – the USDA recommends limiting added sugars to less than 10 percent of your daily calorie intake. (8)

Tester trying the Onnit Protein Bar Bites.

Additionally, the outer coating, while tasty, contains filler ingredients like sugar, palm oil, and sunflower lecithin. For these reasons, and due to the lower protein content, we rated this product a 3 out of 5 for its ingredients.

This pick is one of the higher-rated products on our list for taste, with a score of 4 out of 5. It’s like a healthy dessert that you can indulge in without feeling guilty when your cravings kick in! 

Tester trying the Onnit Protein Bites in Cookie Dough.

Our tester excitedly states, ”These taste like candy bars – the cookies and cream flavor is dangerous because it’s like an Oreo in a protein bar form. Chef’s kiss.” Furthermore, the texture was also a perfect score, with  5 out of 5. “I thought the texture was perfectly designed – it’s chewy, moist, and delicious.” If you’re looking for a tasty protein bar that won’t break the bank, be sure to give this low-carb snack bar a try.

Best Gluten-Free Low-Carb Protein Bars: Promix Protein Puff Bars

Promix Protein Puff Bars are uniquely gluten-free in a world of protein bars often packed with gluten ingredients. Following a strict gluten-free diet through consuming naturally gluten-free foods or certified gluten-free foods is important to those who live with celiac disease and equally important to individuals who live with gluten sensitivity. (9) Additionally, Promix Protein Puff Bars avoid cross-contamination, as they’re produced in facilities that focus on being gluten-free, which is important as people with celiac disease may inadvertently consume gluten without their knowledge. (10) 

In addition to checking off the gluten-free box, this pick contains a solid stack of ingredients. With 16 to 17 grams of protein per bar from whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Whey isolate, in particular, is an impressive ingredient to see in an ingredient list, as it undergoes more processing than standard whey to yield a more nutrient-dense product.

Isolate may be more well-tolerated for a variety of individuals and is more readily digested and absorbed since it has minimal lactose content. (11) The only downside in the formulation that we saw was that it contains some added sugar, which should be limited to less than 10 percent of your diet. (8) Overall, our team rated the ingredients a solid 4 out of 5.

[Related: Best Protein Puffs for Flavor]

As far as taste goes, this bar is rated pretty highly, especially considering that it’s often hard to find tasty gluten-free products. Our tester gave this product a 4.5 out of 5 and stated, “I liked the Chocolate protein bar since it tasted like actual chocolate instead of a protein-based alternative. It gave me a little bit of nostalgia around eating chocolate-flavored Rice Krispies treats when I was younger.” 

Lastly, the texture is also decent for a gluten-free product – many of us can attest to gluten-free products not having as good of a texture as products with gluten. “The texture is a little gritty, but it’s not bad. I definitely think it’s superior to a traditional chewy bar or really dry bars from other brands,” our tester notes, giving it a 4.5 out of 5 for texture.

Best High-Protein Low-Carb Protein Bars: EPIC Protein Bars

Time’s up whey, collagen, and plant-based protein bars. For a high-protein, low-carb protein bar with all-natural ingredients, check out EPIC Protein Bars. These bars bring a unique and refreshing approach to the protein bar game by offering savory flavors with 100 percent meat as the protein source. This is important for anyone seeking a higher protein intake since the bioavailability of protein is higher in animal-based products. (12) This means you can get more bang for your buck by consuming these protein bars over others formulated with less bioavailable sources. 

With this protein bar, you can get up to 12 grams of protein per bar, depending on the flavor, which is helpful when you have higher protein needs than the average individual. While the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein for a sedentary person is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, some individuals may have higher protein needs if they are very active or trying to gain muscle mass. (8)(13)

According to our product testing team, the flavors are great for meat lovers – they scored the taste a 5 out of 5. Our tester states, “I love every flavor I tried, but my favorite is bison bacon cranberry. I found the flavors to be well-balanced and robust.” 

[Related: Best Protein Chips]

If you haven’t tried an EPIC Protein Bar before, the texture might be something you need to get accustomed to. Our tester gave the texture a strong 4 out of 5, stating, “I don’t mind the texture, but some people might not like it – it’s a very particular texture that’s meaty. I found the venison bars to be much tougher and drier than the beef bars.” If you normally like jerky and meat, you’ll probably love these bars, though.

Additionally, this product is well-suited for individuals following a ketogenic or paleo diet, but may not be appropriate for those on a plant-based diet. 

Read our full EPIC Protein Bars Review.

Best Tasting Low-Carb Protein Bars: Quest Bar

Quest Nutrition takes the cake (literally) as the best-tasting, low-carb protein bar on our list of picks. Why compromise taste for nutrition when you can have both? Overall, our testing team rated this pick a 4 out of 5 for its stellar taste. “Quest Bars are one of those things that some people absolutely love – I was obsessed with them for so many years,” our tester states. 

If you thought enjoying a regular Quest Bar was tasty, try microwaving a Quest Bar on a plate for 15 to 20 seconds – you’ll get a soft-baked treat to enjoy. It’s a delicious way to transform a dense Chocolate Brownie bar into a warm, gooey, and chewy chocolate brownie to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings with zero guilt. These tasty protein bars also come in many different flavors, so you’re bound to find a flavor that you love. It’s no wonder that Quest Bars have so many people raving about them.

Quest Bar Flavors

From a nutritional standpoint, Quest Bars are high in protein, with up to 21 grams of protein per bar and excellent protein sources (whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate). Whey protein isolate is readily more digestible compared to regular whey protein. (11) Moreover, these bars contain a whopping 17 grams of prebiotic fiber, depending on the flavor. USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend at least 31 to 34 grams of fiber for men and 22 to 28 grams of fiber for women, so this pick can help you get closer to achieving this goal. (8)

Protein Bar Cross-section

However, there are several major downsides to Quest Bars: the sugar alcohol content and the texture. First, they contain erythritol, a sugar alcohol. Sugar alcohols are notoriously known for their potential to cause gastrointestinal symptoms like gassiness and bloating. (3) “These bars can cause digestive upset due to the level of erythritol. I personally tolerate these well if I have them once in a while, but I find that if I have these daily, I get some serious bloating,” our tester adds. 

[Related: Best Protein Snacks]

Second, Quest Bars are dense in texture. The hardness of the bars can be tough for chewing, especially for those eating these on the go and are often in cold temperatures – these bars tend to become even denser in colder weather versus room temperature. For this reason, our tester rated the texture of this product a 3.5 out of 5. (Again, if you microwave this bar into a soft-baked bar, the texture does soften quite a bit.)

Read our full Quest Bar Review.

Best Vegan Low-Carb Protein Bars: BHU Foods Vegan Protein Bars

Vegan options can be hard to come across in a protein bar form since many protein-based products contain whey, milk, collagen, or casein. Some animal-based ingredients are also hidden on the ingredient list, making a vegan lifestyle challenging when you’re trying to increase your protein intake. Thankfully, BHU Foods Vegan Protein Bars are 100 percent vegan! Its ingredients are plant-based and also certified USDA Organic and non-GMO, with organic pea protein as its protein source.

As a bonus, these bars are rich in soluble fiber, sourced from organic tapioca, with a whopping 11 to 15 grams of dietary fiber per bar. Soluble fiber is beneficial since it can help slow down stomach emptying and help lower cholesterol. (14)(15) While the USDA recommends 31 to 34 grams of fiber per day for men and 22 to 28 grams of fiber per day for women, dietary fiber is a common nutrient that we lack in our diets. (16)(8) Adding in a protein bar like a BHU Vegan Protein Bar can help you reach your daily fiber goals.

Finding a vegan protein bar that also happens to taste good and has an agreeable texture can also be tough – vegan foods aren’t often known for being tasty compared to animal-based products. However, we think this product checks off the boxes for taste and texture, with a perfect score of 5 out of 5. Our tester states, “I think they’re super easy to eat because they taste like dessert without being overpoweringly sweet, and they have a buttery texture to bite into.”

Now, for the downsides. While these bars are well-suited for vegan diets (and maybe even vegan keto diets), they may not be the best for those looking for a bar with higher protein, lower carb, and lower fat content. Additionally, these bars need to stay refrigerated, so we recommend consuming them at home or only when you’re out for short periods. “I didn’t find these as convenient as other protein bars since they require refrigeration, but you can easily get the texture ready by using your fingers to warm the bar up,” our tester adds. We still think they’re worth a try if you’re strictly looking for vegan or vegan keto protein bars.

Best Dairy-Free Low-Carb Protein Bars: No Cow Dipped Bars

The name of these bars says it all: No Cow. About 36 percent of Americans have lactose malabsorption, so it’s no surprise that dairy-free products are in high demand. (17) No Cow Dipped Bars provide clean, plant-based fuel without any whey, with 20 grams of protein sourced from brown rice and peas, only up to 1 gram of added sugar, and up to 15 grams of dietary fiber from soluble corn fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer. (4)

No Cow Dipped Bars are one of the few dairy-free protein bars out there – and there are so many flavors to choose from, so you’re bound to find one that you like, which is important because some of the dairy-free products out there just aren’t very tasty. Now Cow Bars also come in a variety pack containing six of their most popular flavors, if you’re not sure about what flavor to try. Our testers rated the taste a 4 out of 5 and noted that the Birthday Cake flavor was the best one among the mix.

No Cow Dipped Protein Bar on display.

Overall, these bars will do the trick for those avoiding dairy products and are formulated pretty well – they received a solid final rating of 4 out of 5 for the ingredients category. However, this product lost some marks for its sugar alcohol content and fillers. First, despite being dairy-free, No Cow Dipped Bars contain sugar alcohols and stevia, which can cause gastrointestinal distress in some individuals.

Our tester states, “I am usually pretty sensitive to stevia and sugar alcohols, so I did notice some minor bloating and gassiness after eating these.” Second, these bars contain fillers, which is surprising in a product claiming to be free from “bad” ingredients – they contain glycerin, palm oil, and gums, depending on the flavor. 

No Cow Lemon Meringue Pie

For a dairy-free product, the texture isn’t too bad, either. “I didn’t mind the texture – it’s smooth and creamy, but also a little dry and mealy. I’d recommend having a glass of water with it,” our tester adds. For the freshest taste, we also recommend refrigerating these bars, which makes them less dry. While there are tastier products out there, we think this is the best pick for the dairy-free category.

Read our full No Cow Dipped Bars review.

Best Crunchy Low-Carb Protein Bars: KIND Zero Snack Bars

KIND Zero Snack Bars pack so much crunch with every bite. If you’re tired of the smooth or chewy protein bars out there, this pick is our favorite as the crunchiest bar on our list. They’re made with crunchy nuts and drizzled with decadent chocolate on top. 

Our tester gave this product a solid 4 out of 5 for texture, noting, “I tried the Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt flavor and enjoyed the hard, nutty aesthetic of this bar. It’s a break from the chewier options out there. It’s not too hard to chew, but also isn’t a gooey, melting mess.” Consuming protein bars with a crunchy texture can be helpful, as the texture can help with perceptions of satiety and consumer preferences. (18)

As far as the formulation goes, there’s a lot to love. It’s packed with heart-healthy, nutrient-dense nuts as its protein source. While nuts are a high-fat food, studies have shown that nuts may help to reduce the risk for heart disease, given their high “healthy” fat content, called unsaturated fats. (19) It’s also rich in dietary fiber with, 7 to 8 grams of fiber per bar, which can support satiety – one study found that people ate fewer calories and felt fuller for longer. (20) Plus, it’s free from sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners, which some people prefer to avoid due to their dietary preferences or to avoid any digestive upset in the case of sugar alcohols. 

But as the name implies – this pick is great as a snack or energy bar when you need steady energy, but not as great for those looking for a meal replacement bar or something to help you meet higher protein needs. It only contains 5 grams of protein, whereas the average individual would need about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, which equates to at least 18 to 24 grams of protein per meal or snack. (8) 

“I think it’s about as good as a protein bar with only 5 grams of protein can do, but it’s nothing to write home about. I’d occasionally have it as a snack, but it’s certainly not a meal alternative or for hardcore athletes,” our tester adds. As such,, if you love crunchy textures and don’t mind the lower protein content, we think this pick is a great choice.

Best Meal Replacement Low-Carb Protein Bars: Original Keto Bars

When looking for the best meal replacement, you want something filling, rich, and dense. We think Original Keto Bars might be the solution you’re looking for. Compared to other nutrients, fat makes food seem much tastier, as it triggers taste receptors on our tongues. (21) This is also probably one of the reasons why some people choose to follow a keto diet – eating a lot of fat can seem filling. With 20 to 21 grams of fat from nuts in Original Keto Bars, they’re a solid choice if you’re looking for filling meal replacement bars or keto snacks to keep your body in ketosis throughout the day.

While the price is a little bit on the higher side, with a rating of 3.5 out of 5 from our tester, we think it could be worth it if you’re replacing a full meal with this protein bar. According to Feeding America, the average cost of a meal is $3.02, but this could be nearly twice the amount in certain regions. (22) And, if you think about meals at restaurants, a meal replacement bar like Original Keto Bars can be much cheaper in comparison.

Original Keto Bars have a solid formulation with a short ingredient list, which we love. It’s packed with nuts as its protein source and studies have shown that nuts may help to reduce the risk for heart disease. (19) It also contains no sugar in the formula, but lost some points in our testing due to the presence of erythritol, which is a sugar alcohol – and sugar alcohols can cause bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. (3) Overall, our tester still rated the ingredients a sparkling 4 out of 5.

Those looking for meal replacements may want something that tastes good, too. Rest assured – Original Keto Bars meet this requirement with a taste score of 4 out of 5. Our tester liked these protein bars, stating, “I thought the taste for the flavors I tried was very pleasant, although there was a tiny bit of an aftertaste and a chalky film that forms on your tongue.” However, she recommended having the bars with a glass of water to make them more moist. “These bars are a little dry and can dry out your mouth, so have a drink handy,” our tester says.

Best Low-Calorie Low-Carb Protein Bars: Core Foods Brownie Bites

We get it – it’s hard to find a protein bar that’s low in calories and carbs, but also contains enough protein. So many protein bars are packed with nuts or other ingredients that add on the calories. Fortunately, we’ve tested and recommend Core Foods Brownie Bites if you’re looking for a decent low-calorie protein bar. With only 90 calories per bite, it can serve as an indulgent snack between meals or post-dinner dessert with zero guilt.

There are unique needs for individuals looking to reduce calories to try to lose weight or fat. First, staying full is a must to avoid overeating after curbing calories throughout the day. Core Foods Brownie Bites are a good source of fiber, with 5 grams per bite, which meets 18 percent of the daily value (DV) for this nutrient. (8) Fiber content is helpful since it can help you stay fuller for longer. (4)

Second, choosing lower calorie foods and eating less food may result in some gaps in micronutrients or worsening of baseline micronutrient status. (23) This pick contains vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc to supplement your intake, which is nice for those who could benefit from extra nutrients without the calories.

Overall, this product received a score of 4 out of 5 for its high-quality ingredients, although it lost some marks for its inclusion of filler ingredients like vegetable glycerin and sunflower lecithin, as well as erythritol, a sugar alcohol.

Third, when you’re reducing your calories, you’ll want a product that tastes good so that you don’t feel like you’re on a diet. These brownie bites scored a decent 4.5 out of 5 for taste, with our tester noting, “I think they’re comparable to a typical protein baked good. The flavor was good enough.”

While appropriate for low-calorie diets, our only caution here is that you may end up eating several bites if you’re not actively managing your portions – which defeats the purpose of a low-calorie snack. “I felt more hungry after eating these compared to other protein bars, which can lead to overindulgence,” our tester adds. So, be sure to exercise portion control and be mindful of your intake. 

Benefits of Low-Carb Protein Bars

Low-carb protein bars offers convenient solutions for meeting increased protein needs and fueling athletic performance. With various flavors depending on the brand, these bars cater to diverse dietary preferences and active lifestyles, providing a quick and tasty way to fuel the body without excess carbs. 

Protein Needs

Low-carb protein bars can help you increase your protein intake while aligning with specific dietary regimes like keto, paleo, or low-carb lifestyles. The picks on our list include various protein sources like whey, casein, or plant-based options, making it easier to supplement your protein intake than from foods alone.

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for a sedentary adult is about 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight. (8) However, when you’re trying to gain muscle, your needs may be higher – studies even point to up to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight in these cases. (13) That’s where protein bars come in handy.

Aloha Protein Bar

With various flavors available, ranging from sweet to savory, you can satisfy your cravings for something tasty while fueling your body with the protein it requires – all without the excess carbs. Low-carb protein bars are especially ideal for active individuals who may have higher protein requirements than the average person while maintaining a balanced carbohydrate intake.

Convenience

Low-carb protein bars offer unbeatable convenience for our busy, modern lifestyles. Unlike cooking a protein-rich meal or mixing a protein shake with powder, these bars require zero preparation. They’re perfectly portioned, pre-packaged, and healthy snacks – and ready to consume whenever you need a nutritious snack or energy boost. 

You can easily stash them in your gym bag, car, or desk drawer – and most don’t require refrigeration (although there are some exceptions). Just tear open the wrapper and enjoy, with no utensils or shaker bottle required. This grab-and-go nature makes them a lifesaver for athletes, busy professionals, students, and families on the move, especially for those with specific dietary needs that require careful monitoring of macronutrient profiles.

Athletic Performance

For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, low-carb protein bars can be a valuable tool for optimizing performance and recovery. During intense training sessions or competitions, our muscles undergo microscopic damage and become depleted of glycogen stores. (24) Consuming a protein bar within 30 minutes of your workout supplies essential amino acids to your body, which may help to kickstart muscle repair and replenish energy reserves. (25) Additionally, supplementing with protein may help you gain muscle. (1)

The low-carb aspect is crucial for athletes who want to maintain a lean physique or adhere to specific dietary regimens like keto or low-carb diets. By minimizing insulin spikes from excess carb content, these bars can support recovery without leaving you with a sugar crash. (26) 

How Much Do Low-Carb Protein Bars Cost?

Compared to protein powders, low-carb protein bars tend to cost a little more per serving, given the convenience factor – they require no mixing or cooking. According to our research, low-carb protein bars can cost anywhere from $1.41 to $3.48 for the picks on our list, depending on the brand, pack size, and features.

While there are some economical options on this list to stay under $2 per bar, including our pick for Best Budget Low-Carb Protein Bars, you’ll want to make an informed choice based on your health goals, personal preferences, and dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re on a vegan diet, you’d only be limited to plant-based options, which can be a little more costly than whey-based protein bars.

How to Choose the Best Low-Carb Protein Bars

Don’t see a particular protein bar on this list but want to determine whether it’s a good fit? While choosing a low-carb protein bar is highly subjective, we’ve picked a couple of criteria you may want to consider. Of course, you’ll want to take your dietary restrictions, preferences, and training goals into account and whether the low-carb protein bar can help you meet these needs.

Macronutrient Profile

When it comes to protein bars, especially if you’re following a low-carb diet, the macronutrient breakdown is an important consideration. You’ll want to look for bars that have a balanced macronutrient profile. They need to be high in protein, low in carbs, and low in fat. However, some protein bars, while high in fat, include healthy fats from ingredients like nuts and seeds, which are well-suited for keto diets and supports your heart health. (5) It’s all about finding that perfect balance of macros to support your low-carb lifestyle.

Ingredients

Be sure to check the ingredient list. The best low-carb protein bars typically have a simple and short ingredient list, with ingredients you can pronounce. You’ll want to look for bars made with natural, whole-food ingredients without any unknown fillers, artificial sweeteners, or sugar alcohols. 

The ingredients should also align well with a low-carb diet. Steer clear of bars that sneak in hidden sources of carbs, like syrups or starches. The best low-carb protein bars will use ingredients that provide extra health benefits, like fiber-rich nuts and seeds.

Protein Source

The specific protein source used in a bar can make a big difference in how it’s digested and absorbed by your body, especially if you have any dietary restrictions or follow a specific diet. (27)

Common protein sources in low-carb bars include whey, pea, casein, and brown rice. Whey protein is the most popular since it has an excellent nutritional profile and gets absorbed quickly in your body, making it great for muscle recovery. (28) Plant-based proteins like peas or rice are excellent alternatives if you’re vegetarian, vegan, or dairy-free. Take some time to think about what works best for your individual needs and preferences when choosing a protein bar. 

Texture

The texture of a protein bar can make or break the whole experience, although this one is hard to judge from the label alone. Some people love a nice chewy, soft texture, while others prefer something with a satisfying crunch.

The texture is mostly determined by the ingredients used. Bars with nuts, seeds, or crisps tend to have a crunchier vibe, while those made with protein powders like whey or pea are usually chewier and smoother in texture. It’s worth considering which texture you enjoy the most and seeking bars that match that preference. When in doubt, you can also look up online reviews that speak to the texture of the protein bar in question.

Taste and Flavor

Just because you’re eating low-carb doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste – there are a plethora of delicious options out there. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to more unique offerings like beef jalapeno or birthday cake, take some time to browse the different flavor choices and pick one that sounds appealing to you. Keep in mind that some bars may use artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, or natural sweeteners. Sugar alcohols are prone to cause bloating, while natural sweeteners like stevia may have a bitter aftertaste, so be on the lookout for those ingredients on the ingredient list if you have specific preferences. (3) 

Best Low-Carb Protein Bars FAQs

References

Hulmi, J. J., Lockwood, C. M., & Stout, J. R. (2010). Effect of protein/essential amino acids and resistance training on skeletal muscle hypertrophy: A case for whey protein. Nutrition & Metabolism, 7(1), 1-11.

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