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Editor's note: Prior to taking any supplement (including protein bars), consult with your doctor to see if it's right for your diet.
As a teen in the '90s, I remember hitting the weight room to bulk up for football season. I was told I needed a steady diet of protein to get the most gains. Although I could've consumed more chicken, or even some protein powder, I decided to choke down bulky, gold foil-wrapped protein bars.
It was a chore. The texture was reminiscent of old gum and it took serious concentration to get through a few bites; eating them was a workout in itself.
Thankfully, protein bars have come a long way in the last 25 years. You no longer have to settle for inedible junk. Today's options taste so good you'll crave them even when you aren't trying to make the most of your workouts.
Although I'm well beyond my bulking high school phase, I'm still quite active and use protein bars to supplement my workouts. Below are my five current favorites, which are enjoyable to eat while also adding protein to my daily intake. I've also included answers to a few FAQs, including how to calculate your daily protein, at the end of this guide.
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Our top picks for protein bars
Best overall: Optimum Nutrition Protein Wafers - See at Amazon
If you're looking for the best-tasting protein product on the market, you'd be hard-pressed to find anything better than Optimum Nutrition's Protein Wafers (9-pack).
Best minimally-processed: Kind Protein Bars - See at Amazon
The Kind Protein Bar (12-pack) is your best bet if you prefer to be able to easily identify the food you put into your body.
Best high protein: Quest Nutrition Protein Bar - See at Amazon
If you want one bar that gives you all the post-workout protein you need for big muscle gains, turn to the Quest Nutrition Protein Bar (12-pack).
Best without added sugars: RXBar - See at Amazon
The RXBar (12-pack) gives you a healthy dose of protein and fiber with no added sugars or sweeteners.
Best keto-friendly: RSP Whole Bar - See at Amazon
Though it's on the pricier side, the RSP Whole Bar offers an excellent balance of protein and fiber while keeping carbs to a minimum, making it ideal for people on a keto diet.
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