If new year, new you sums up your attitude about health and fitness ambitions, you're not alone. Now is the time to set some nutritious, realistic goals when it comes to healthy eating and exercising. Snacking, when done in moderation, can be a useful tool to keep your eating on track. The body needs protein (especially when you're working out) to build and repair itself. If you lead a busy lifestyle, protein bars are a convenient way to get the extra protein you need and a filling, nutritious snack. Think all protein bars have a chalky consistency or leave an overly sweet taste in your mouth? Heck, they don't even have to be sweet at all. Here, we've rounded up our eight favorite protein bars to keep you from skipping a meal or reaching for junk food.
Image via Instagram@perfectbar
Image via Instagram@perfectbar
10-17g, varies per flavor
Why we love 'em: Perfect Bars are the original refrigerator bars. This means they're made of real (perishable) ingredients and last longer in the fridge. Containing a peanut, cashew, walnut or almond butter base, they derive their protein from nuts and are creamy, decadent and taste like dessert. We love the variety of crunchy and chewy additions such as fruit, nuts and chocolate, so you have plenty of flavors to choose from.
10-11g, varies per flavor
Why we love 'em: These bars are vegan, tree nut-free, soy-free and gluten-free. They're a great plant-based bar when you want clean protein, fast. Containing pea protein, pumpkin and chia seeds to give you the nine essential amino acids and a satisfying chewy-crunch, they also offer a mix of classic flavors like Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and exotic combinations like Ginger Turmeric and Tart Cherry & Lemon.
20g
Why we love 'em: These whey protein bars give you 20 grams of protein with only one gram of sugar. With more flavor choices than most bars, you'll never get tired of the selection. With a mouthfeel similar to a candy bar, these chewy treats are topped in a satisfying layer of icing and make a great post-gym treat or any time you're craving a little something sweet. Standout flavors like Maple Glazed Donut and Almond Bliss remind us of actual donuts and Almond Joy bars. Yum!
15-17g, varies per flavor
Why we love 'em: If you think most protein bars are texturally challenged, give these a whirl. Hero bars are packed with whey protein and have a delicious blend of crunchy, gooey and crumbly textures. The three dessert-inspired flavors will make you rethink reaching for that cookie or slice of cake. We especially love the Blueberry Cobbler flavor for its similarity to the tasty treat.