Whoever said the best things come in small packages must have been talking about protein bars. The superstar snack is everything when it comes to convenience–particularly when you're on a program for weight loss. No time to sit down for breakfast? A protein bar can help hold you over until lunch. Beyond hungry in the afternoon, even after snacking on a ZeroPoint™ apple? Protein bar to the rescue. In need of an easy-to-eat snack to bring with you on a hike? Protein bar. You get the picture.
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But what makes protein bars really stand out is their ability to quiet a grumbling belly. Their fill-you-up factor comes from the different types of protein used in protein bars. These include:
- Nuts (or nut butter)
The high-protein ingredient can be found in many bars.
- Soy protein
You’ll see the soybean-based protein listed as soy protein isolate on nutrition labels.
- Whey protein
The dairy-based protein is a byproduct of the cheese-making process.
- Meat
Meat-based bars get their protein from chicken, venison, and other animals (think protein bar meets jerky).
But Can You Eat Protein Bars on WeightWatchers?
One-hundred percent yes. That said, not all protein bars are created equally—one reason why it’s a good idea to check out the nutrition label before digging in. Many bars are sky-high in sugar and calories, which can cost you quite a few Points. A number of protein bars also include artificial ingredients, including sweeteners.
Once you find a protein bar that has an ingredient list you can get behind, by all means, enjoy. Just keep in mind that because we tend to eat these snacks on-the-go, it can be more challenging to eat mindfully when chowing down on a protein bar. (And psst, people who eat mindfully are more likely to have lower body weights than those who eat quickly, shows an International Journal of Obesity study.)
Because you don't alway have the time to prepare or sit down for a snack, fend off untimely belly grumbles by tossing a bar into your gym bag or purse. You can even leave a couple in your car’s glove compartment so you always have a quick bite at the ready.
5 Low-Points Protein Bars
We asked WeightWatchers executive food editor Lisa Chernick for her top picks. Here they are, and—bonus: They won't take up too much of your Budget.
For nutty satisfaction:
Peanut butter + chocolate + 10 grams of protein? Bring. It. On.
For savory snackers:
Bring on the heat! Sriracha adds some kick to this meat-based protein bar.
For chocolate fans: 
Think Kids Chocolate Chip Protein Bar, $17 for 24 bars at Amazon.com
Made for kids but delicious for adults, this protein bar has no artificial flavors or colors and is gluten-free.
For cake-lovers:
WW Birthday Cake Baked Protein Bar, $6 for six bars at WW.com
Treat every day like it’s your birthday with this sprinkles-packed protein bar. It’s a sweet way to celebrate and stay within your Budget!
For something that’s sweet *and* salty:
KIND Minis Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt Bar, $28 for 60 bars at Amazon.com
This pint-sized, gluten-free bar gets its protein from almonds and peanuts, which are also the leading ingredients.
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This article was reviewed for accuracy in June 2021 by Angela Goscilo, MS, RD, CDN, Nutrition Manager. The WW Science Team is a dedicated group of experts who ensure all our solutions are rooted in the best possible research.
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