into your diet, one of these nine options might be just the game-changer you're looking for.
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9 Best Protein Bars & Products
Written by
Jennifer Fox
When we reach for a protein bar, shake or supplement, we want to make sure that what we are putting in our body isn't hindering our weight-loss or muscle gaining efforts. Though a supplement that's packed full of sugar, artificial ingredients and fillers may taste delicious, it's not doing our body any favors. When you need a nutritious, on-the-go snack to pump some whey or plant-based protein
RXBAR
$25.99, Box of 12
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With an ingredient list that's proudly displayed on the front of each bar, RXBAR takes "minimally processed" to the next level. Their "No B.S." slogan reflects a commitment to quality, whole food ingredients. Each bar gets its protein from egg whites and its taste from dates, nuts and 100 percent real food. RxBARs contain 12 grams of protein and are free of dairy, soy and gluten. Keeping a few of these bars in your gym bag means you'll always have a smart option available when you need a protein pick-me-up.
Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey
$15.99, One Pound
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We know protein is crucial to muscle growth and recovery, but it's not always convenient to chow down on a chicken breast after a hard workout. Protein supplements like Optimum Nutrition's Whey are portable and easy to digest, providing on-the-go support to help you translate gym time into real results. Optimum uses whey protein isolate (which has a higher protein content and is lower in carbohydrates, lactose and fat than whey concentrate) to pack 24 grams of protein in each serving. And with no fillers or artificial ingredients, it's a great choice to support your workouts and recovery.
Ascent Casein
$41.99, Two Pounds
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Ascent's Micellar Casein protein provides a slow and sustained release of amino acids along with protein--giving your muscles the fuel they need to rebuild and recover. Free from artificial ingredients (including artificial sweeteners), one scoop of this powder provides you with 25 grams of protein, 5 grams of BCAAs and 11 essential amino acids. Casein helps prevent muscle loss by promoting your body's natural ability to repair and improve muscles during sleep if consumed as pudding or a shake before bed.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
$43.00, 20 Ounces
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Collagen is the "glue" that helps hold our joints and tendons together and gives skin its strength and elasticity; it's found in abundance in our muscles, bones, skin, blood vessels, digestive system and tendons. As we age, our body's natural production of collagen slows down and other lifestyle factors (such as a diet high in sugar, smoking or sun exposure) can further deplete the collagen levels in the body. Adding collagen powder to a smoothie is a good way to boost your collagen intake, but it's also a great way to get some extra protein in your diet. Two scoops provide an additional 18 grams of protein, and the powder easily mixes into smoothies, coffee or even baked goods, making this a simple way to improve skin quality, digestion and athletic performance and recovery.
Orgain Plant-Based Protein Powder
$24.99, 1.02 Pounds
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Allergic to dairy but still want to up your protein game? Orgain's plant-based protein powder has 21 grams of pea protein per serving to boost muscle growth and improve recovery. Easy to mix with water or blend into a post-workout smoothie, Orgain is USDA-certified organic, gluten-free, kosher, vegan, non-GMO and soy-free. No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives means you can feel good about giving every flavor a try.
Orgain Vegan Shake
$39.78, 12-Pack (11-fluid-ounce cartons)
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Chocolate milk has been a go-to recovery drink for many athletes over the years, but for those allergic to dairy or avoiding animal products, it can be tough to find a protein-packed alternative. The vegan protein shake from Orgain satisfies protein cravings and fuels muscles with 16 grams of the good stuff. With all organic ingredients, 21 vitamins and minerals and a fruit and veggies blend, this portable shake is the perfect on-the-go nutrition for busy days.
Organic Valley Protein Shake
$35.99, 12-Pack (11-fluid-ounce cartons)
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You may know the Organic Valley brand as a staple in the milk aisle, but this company also produces a high-protein shake that's perfect for a post-workout snack. The optimal window for recovery is the first 30 minutes after your workout when your muscles are primed to absorb nutrients and jumpstart your recovery. Having an easy-to-digest protein source on hand allows you to take full advantage of that refueling window, and Organic Valley's Chocolate Protein shake is non-GMO and contains 26 grams of protein with no antibiotics, synthetic hormones or toxic pesticides.
Stack'd Protein Pancakes
$15.99, One Pound
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Who doesn't love a big stack of pancakes for breakfast? While we may love the taste of all those yummy carbs swimming in butter and syrup, we don't always love the insulin spike (and subsequent crash¬). Stack'd pancakes pack protein into our favorite breakfast by turning a blend of organic whole wheat and organic casein protein into a delicious mix that delivers 25 grams of protein, is low in calories and contains NO artificial ingredients. Your post-run brunch just got a whole lot healthier.
The Dough Bar Doughnuts
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Sometimes you just want a doughnut. But with high levels of saturated fat, sugar and calories, it's certainly not an everyday food. Enter The Dough Bar: a "better for you" doughnut that boasts 11 grams of protein, are baked, not fried and come with homemade toppings and glazes separate from the doughnut so you can customize to meet your nutritional and macro goals.