I Lost 15 Pounds, and These Are the 5 Low-Carb Protein Bars That Kept Me Satisfied
The hardest part of losing weight for me was retooling my snacks. Previously, when the midafternoon hunger pangs hit, all bets were off; I would typically hit the vending machine or wander to the convenience store looking for a sweet treat or savory snack to give me that much-needed pick-me-up. But lately, instead of reaching for a carb-heavy bag of pretzels or a sugary cookie, which would just spike my blood sugar and leave me even hungrier an hour later, I turned to these low-carb protein bars.
Since I have PCOS, I aim to follow a low-carb diet to keep my insulin levels in check. Although every body is different and some people respond better to eating more carbs (talk with a registered dietitian or your doctor before making any major dietary changes), I find that a low-carb diet works best for me and has helped me lose 15 pounds since January. I also like incorporating protein and healthy fats into every snack to keep me satisfied and on track with my weight-loss goals. Whether you're eating a low-carb diet or just want a protein-packed snack to get you through the day, these options will satisfy your rumbly tummy and tastebuds. Bonus: they are all on Amazon!
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Bulletproof Collagen Protein Bar in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Although I don't follow a keto diet, I do find that healthy fats keep me satisfied. This Bulletproof Collagen Protein Bar in Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough ($35 for 12) clocks in at just nine grams of net carbs and 15 grams of fat. The 12 grams of protein also fill me up, and I like this flavor when I need a subtly sweet pick-me-up.
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Quest Nutrition Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar
Quest is the OG low-carb protein bar over the past decade that has gotten me through midafternoon hunger pangs and starving post-workout sessions. With only four grams of net carbs, the Quest Nutrition Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Protein Bar ($24 for 12) is so yummy. Pro tip: if you have time, microwave the bar for around 10 to 15 seconds, and thank me later.
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One Protein Bar in Birthday Cake
On mornings I don't have time to make my 400-calorie weight-loss smoothie, I grab a One Protein Bar in Birthday Cake ($25 for 12) for breakfast. These are also perfect to stash in my purse or gym bag after a particularly grueling workout when I need a refuel. Each bar has 13 grams of net carbs (22 grams of total carbs) and 20 grams of protein to keep you satisfied.
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Epic All Natural Meat Bar
When I'm craving something more on the savory side, I opt for these Epic All Natural Meat Bars ($25 for 12) in apple, uncured bacon, and beef. It feels like a heartier snack that keeps me full for only four grams of total carbs per bar.
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Primal Kitchen Peanut Butter Protein Bars
I am obsessed with peanut butter, and this Primal Kitchen Peanut Butter Protein Bar ($28 for 12) is basically my favorite nut butter, just in bar form. It packs a hearty serving of fat (16 grams!) so it's perfect for those following a keto diet or those just want more healthy fats to feel satiated. Each bar has eight grams of net carbs and just two grams of sugar.