Over the past few years, protein snack bars have gained a lot of popularity. These bars are easy to carry, can be found at any local store, and most importantly, can be eaten on the go. But, with so many available options, how do you know which one is the right one for you? Here are a few things that can help you make that decision.

Ensure that it has the right amount of protein
Protein does a lot for your body, making it an essential part of the diet. It helps repair the wear and tear in the body, carries electrolytes and other nutrients from one organ to the other, and even regulates the body’s functions. Protein bars are a great way to ensure that you are receiving your daily fill of this vital nutrient. But, more often than not, protein bars fall short of this required amount. So, when deciding on a protein bar of your choice, don’t forget to pick out ones that have more than five grams of protein. This amount can also vary depending on how vigorously you exercise.

Avoid those with high sugar content
Sugar is essential for the proper functioning of the body. But, this statement is only applicable to naturally occurring sugars found in fruits and vegetables and not to added sugars found in packaged foods. Protein bars are packaged foods, and many of them contain high amounts of added sugars that can do more harm than good. So, how do you pick one that is good for you? A quick glance at the ingredient list should help. Try to avoid protein snack bars with ingredients such as sucrose, corn syrup, and high-fructose corn syrup. Such ingredients contribute to the overall calorie content and can lead to bloating and discomfort. Try to find bars that have only six to eight grams of sugar content.

Count the calories
When it comes to purchasing the right protein bar, you also want to keep in mind the amount of calories present. Considering protein bars are simply a snack, try avoiding bars that have high-calorie counts. The number of calories in the bar may also differ based on your requirements. If you are looking forward to gaining weight, you can choose a protein snack bar with high-calorie content. On the contrary, if you’re looking to lose weight, try picking bars that have 140 to 300 calories per bar.

Don’t forget to check the fat content
Fats are also essential for overall health. But, this is only applicable to unsaturated and natural fats. Trans fats and saturated fats actually affect your body negatively. This is why it is important to look for bars that do not contain these ingredients. Instead, try looking for bars that are made with a nut base. Nuts usually have high amounts of healthy fats, and this can help your heart stay fit.