9 Best Protein Bars for Diabetics

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Yasfa profile picture Protein bars are a great way to keep your energy levels up when you’re on the go. But, healthy protein bars with excess sugar can be very detrimental to your health if you’re struggling with diabetes.

That’s where we can help. We’ve carefully selected some of the best protein bars for diabetics on the market. Take a look at our list and make an informed decision before buying a protein bar to suit your needs.

Quick List: Our Top 3 Diabetic Protein Bars

If you’re in a hurry, here’s a list of our top 3 and where to get them…

#1. KIND Protein Bars ★★★★★

KIND Protein Bars, Crunchy Peanut Butter, Gluten Free, 12g Protein,1.76oz, 12 count
  • Low glycemic index
  • High protein content
  • Contains vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats
  • Flavorful
  • Available in multiple flavors
  • 0g Trans Fat

Flavors: Peanuts, chicory root fiber, honey, non-fat milk powder, and sea salt

#2. RXBAR ★★★★★

RXBAR, Chocolate Sea Salt, Protein Bar, 1.83 Ounce (Pack of 12), High Protein Snack, Gluten Free
  • Great high protein to low sugar ration
  • High protein and low sugar content
  • Contains no artificial flavors or preservatives
  • Great texture

Flavors: Chocolate, almonds, cashews, egg-whites, and dates.

#3. Quest Protein Bars ★★★★★

Quest Nutrition Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bar, High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten Free, Keto Friendly, 12 Count
  • Great high protein to low sugar ration
  • Keto-friendly and gluten-free
  • High fiber content
  • Dairy-based protein isolates good for muscle and bones

Flavors: Peanuts, chocolate, cocoa butter, and sea salt

#1.   KIND Bars (Overall Best)

KIND Protein Bars, Crunchy Peanut Butter, Gluten Free, 12g Protein,1.76oz, 12 count We’re kicking off our list with KIND Bars for a reason. They’re popular for their great taste and natural ingredients. And, they have an astoundingly low glycemic index.

The bars have no artificial sweeteners or any processed ingredients. Instead, they’re made from natural whole grains, fruits, and nuts. Full of nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, these bars are an excellent choice for any health-conscious individual.

But, the best part about these gluten-free bars is that they taste delicious. KIND Bars are available in several delicious flavor combinations. Though, we recommend you avoid the bars covered in chocolate as they might be higher in sugar.

Pros
  • All-natural ingredients
  • 0g Trans Fat
  • Low sodium and sugar content
  • Good source of fiber
Cons
  • Not suitable for individuals with nut allergies
  • May go stale quickly after opening

Where To Buy

#2.   RXBAR

RXBAR, Chocolate Sea Salt, Protein Bar, 1.83 Ounce (Pack of 12), High Protein Snack, Gluten Free

If you’re a minimalist when it comes to protein bars, then RXBAR is probably the best option for you.

From its no-nonsense packaging to its simple list of eight ingredients, these bars don’t pretend to be any type of superfood. These bars are made from egg-whites, dates, nuts, and chocolate, and have a whopping 12g of protein.

Here’s what you will not find in any RXBAR – no added sugar, no GMOs, No soy, No Dairy, and No gluten. They’re Kosher, along with being Paleo and Whole30 compliant. Also, these bars are suitable for lactose intolerant.

If you’re looking for a bar that’ll fulfill your hunger without any rise or fall in blood sugar, then the RXBAR is a solid choice.

Pros
  • Is available in a variety of flavors
  • Some flavors are suitable as a keto snack option
  • Are flavorful and have a good texture
  • Free of all artificial flavors and preservatives
Cons
  • Some people may not like the simple ingredient line-up
  • Slightly pricier than other protein bar options

Where To Buy


#3.   Quest Protein Bars

Quest Nutrition Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bar, High Protein, Low Carb, Gluten Free, Keto Friendly, 12 Count

Next up on our compilation is the Quest Protein Bar. Available in over 20 astonishing flavor combinations, these bars are popular among fitness-lovers for a variety of reasons.

Quest Nutrition has amassed a reputation for itself since its inception in 2010, and their bars focus on protein-loaded ingredients that help limit the amount of regular sugar intake.

These bars are made with dairy-based protein isolates, and each bar includes 20g of protein with only 1g of sugar. Apart from that, they’re keto-friendly and gluten-free.

Not to mention, these bars deliver great flavor and texture for individuals who’re looking for a tasty protein bar alternative.

Pros
  • Great option when it comes to multiple flavor combinations
  • Rich in fiber and protein
  • Reasonably priced
  • High fiber content
Cons
  • Not suitable for the lactose-intolerant
  • High fiber content may cause stomach upset in certain individuals

Where To Buy

#4.   ONE Protein Bars

ONE Protein Bars, Peanut Butter Cup, Gluten Free Protein Bars with 20g Protein and only 1g Sugar, Guilt-Free Snacking for High Protein Diets, 2.12 oz (12 Pack)

One Bars are marketed with the commitment that they only contain one gram of sugar.

These gluten-free protein bars include 20g of protein, 8g of fiber, and 9g of total fat. This makes them a good alternative for guilt-free snacking. Also, another advantage of these bars is that they promise the same sugar content no matter the flavor.

Made from dairy protein isolates, One bars are an excellent choice for individuals looking for consistent taste and a substantial macronutrient profile.

Pros
  • Flavor taste
  • Low sugar content
  • Is easy to travel with and doesn’t melt very easily
  • Good macronutrient profile
Cons
  • Slightly pricey compared to other bars
  • Not suitable for vegans

Where To Buy

#5.   Pure Protein Bars

Pure Protein Bars, High Protein, Nutritious Snacks to Support Energy, Low Sugar, Gluten Free, Lemon Cake, 1.76 Oz, Pack of 12

The Pure Protein bar is another heavy hitter when it comes to high protein content, with each bar containing 20g of protein.

This bar is not only gluten-free but also has a high amount of whey proteins, which are pretty popular among people who love a good workout. A benefit of the milk-derived protein is that it’s highly beneficial for muscle strength and growth.

That’s why we think these bars are a good option for pre and post-workout snacking, not to mention, their low sugar content makes them a great all-around snack option.

Pros
  • Nourishing option for an energy-boosting snack
  • Available in 12 flavor combinations
  • Convenient to travel with
  • Gluten-free and low sugar content
Cons
  • Contains Maltitol which is a sugar alcohol
  • May cause stomach upsets

Where To Buy

#6.   think! Protein Bars

think! (thinkThin) High Protein Bars - Creamy Peanut Butter, 20g Protein, 0g Sugar, No Artificial Sweeteners, Gluten Free, GMO Free, 2.1 oz bar (10 Count - packaging may vary)

think! bars are available in an appealing 10-bar pack and are available in 10+ flavors.

These bars are made from high-quality organic peanut butter, and they’re GMO and gluten-free. Aside from that, they do not include any artificial sweeteners and have 0g sugar content. All of which makes these bars a remarkable choice for people monitoring their sugar intake.

All in all, think! bars are a flavorful option for those who’re on the look-out for an energy-boosting snack.

Pros
  • Provides long-lasting energy
  • Affordable price range
  • Great protein and sugar profile
  • Available in variety packs
Cons
  • May melt easily
  • Protein blend may cause solidification in bars

Where To Buy

#7.   Rise Whey Protein Bar

Rise Whey Protein Bar, Almond Honey, Healthy Breakfast & Snack Bar, 20g Protein 4g Dietary Fiber, 3 Natural Whole Food Ingredients, Simplest Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free Bar, 12 Pack

If you prefer your protein bars to be as natural as possible when it comes to ingredients, then the Rise bar will likely rise to your standards.

Made from only three ingredients (Almonds, Honey, and Whey Protein Isolate), these bars offer simplicity like no other. Apart from a good low sugar and high protein ratio, Rise bars are non-GMO, gluten-free, and contain no preservatives.

They’re a solid choice for anyone who leads a busy life and is looking for a snack option that promises energy without any detrimental side-effects.

Pros
  • Healthy and flavorsome protein option
  • Does not leave an aftertaste
  • Travels well and does not melt easily
Cons
  • Difficult to open the packaging
  • Higher sugar content compared to other protein bars

Where To Buy

#8.   Love Good Fats Protein Bars

Love Good Fats - Chewy-Nutty Chocolatey Almond Keto Bars - Vegan Protein Bars with Natural Ingredients - Gluten-Free, Low Carb Ketogenic Bar with 9g of Protein and Coconut Oil - 12 Count (39g Bars)

Thus far on our list, we haven’t mentioned a bar that’s vegan-friendly, keto-complaint, and made from nutritious coconut oil. But, that’s about to change with this entry.

The Love Good Fats protein bar is almost one of a kind because it doesn’t contain any soy or dairy, nor does it contain sugar alcohol. This makes it a perfect choice for individuals looking for a healthy energy source without harmful sugar excess.

While the protein content of this bar isn’t as high as the others, it still makes for an exceptional energy-boosting bar with natural ingredients.

Pros
  • Keto and Vegan friendly
  • Contains calcium, iron, and potassium
  • Low sugar and high natural fat content
  • Good price range
Cons
  • Coconut oil may make the bars oily in hot weather conditions
  • Medium protein content

Where To Buy

#9.   ALOHA Organic Plant-Based Protein Bars

ALOHA Organic Plant Based Protein Bars |Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip | 12 Count, 1.9oz Bars | Vegan, Low Sugar, Gluten Free, Paleo, Low Carb, Non-GMO, Stevia Free, Soy Free, No Sugar Alcohols

Aloha organic protein bars are plant-based and offer 14g of protein, 13g of fiber, and 4g of sugar in every serving.

Even though the sugar content is higher than some of the other options on our list, these bars have the advantage of wholesome ingredients like organic brown rice protein and organic pumpkin seed protein.

These bars are a fabulous option for vegans, celiacs, vegetarians, and can work as snacks, meal replacements, or breakfast on the go.

Pros
  • USDA Organic and non-GMO
  • Good low sugar to high protein ratio
  • Good fiber content
  • Contains no added sugars
Cons
  • Slightly pricier than other protein bars
  • Contain vegetable glycerin

Where To Buy

What to Look for When Buying Protein Bars

Protein Bars are versatile when it comes to uses. For instance, you can eat one on the go, if you’re low on energy, or you can have one after you’ve worked out to enhance muscle repair and growth.

But, no matter why you want to invest in protein bars, it’s best to be informed about what features you should be looking for.

Here are a few pointers you should consider:

–       Protein Function

Protein is the building block for your muscles, organs, skin, blood, bone, and cartilage. It also helps with the body’s nutrient transport, which means that a low protein level can result in imbalanced electrolytes.

If you’re health-conscious and exercise regularly, then it’s a good idea for you to monitor and supplement your protein intake.

–       Nutrient Breakdown

If you have diabetes and want to snack on a protein bar, here’s the nutrient breakdown you should keep in mind.

  • Search for a whole food source of protein like whey or peanut butter
  • Opt for bars that have a high fiber content (3 grams or more) because they’ll keep feeling full longer
  • Look for bars with low natural sugar content. If sucrose or high fructose corn syrup is the main ingredient, then try to avoid the bar. Also, try to avoid sugar alcohols.

–       Total Calorie Count

Calorie count should be a consideration if you’re on a weight-loss regimen or want to monitor your daily calorie intake. On the other hand, if you’re looking to build muscle mass and struggling with the required calorie intake, then protein bars can help big time.

Finally, if you just want to have some options when it comes to breakfast on the go, then protein bars can help you save quite a bit of time without sacrificing your nutrients from the morning meal.

Why KIND Bars Is Our #1 Choice

KIND Protein Bars, Crunchy Peanut Butter, Gluten Free, 12g Protein,1.76oz, 12 countApart from being one of the brands of protein bars that dieticians and nutritionists recommend, KIND bars are our number one choice because they have what so many other bars don’t – balance.

KIND Bars have a good sugar to protein ratio and an overall calorie count of 250 calories per bar. Furthermore, the bars also have good fiber content to keep you off the munchies for long.

Whenever you’re looking to buy supplements related to health, the rule of thumb is always – use in moderation. This rule applies whether you’re looking to lose weight, build mass, or trying to keep your sugar index in check.

That is why we’d recommend KIND Bars to all our followers who’re looking for a healthy option in protein bars. Though, we’d remind you to be balanced when it comes to consuming protein bars. Click here to read the reviews on Amazon.com

Apart from that, you’re all set to go shopping.