Supplements
The 10 Best Energy Bars
What are the best energy bars?
Energy bars are a nutritious snack that helps replenish calories and carbs throughout the day.
If you find yourself hungry before a workout or in between meals, energy bars can keep you going.
There’s no shortage of energy bars out there, and some are healthier than otherwise.
We’ve done the hard work for you, finding the best energy bar brands with delicious flavors and impressive nutritional profiles.
Take a look at the top energy bars for a healthy, satisfying snack and source of energy.
The Best Energy Bars Compared
Our supplement lists are created by researching the best-reviewed products from the most reputable companies and web sources.
Here’s our list of the 10 best energy bars:
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. PowerBar – Energy Bars
PowerBar energy bars boost endurance for athletic performance and have been used by athletes for 30+ years.
Energize original bars have a 2:1 ratio of glucose and fructose to provide 50% more muscle energy than glucose.
PowerBar C2MAX is a dual source carb mix made for high-intensity physical activity, helping to speed up and extend athletic performance.
In addition to the classic taste, berry, chocolate, and cookie flavors are also available.
There are no artificial colors or preservatives in these energy bars, which contain 190-230mg of sodium to replenish the top electrolyte lost through sweat.
PowerBar has designed these high-energy snacks to be easy to chew, with ample essential nutrients like magnesium to support a healthy, balanced diet.
Pros
- Designed to boost athletic endurance.
- 50% increase in muscle energy over glucose.
- Reputable brand with an established history.
- Classic, berry, chocolate, and cookie flavors.
- Replaces sodium electrolytes lost through sweat.
- Contains magnesium.
Cons
- Contains lactose and fructose, which may be harmful if overeaten.
- High sodium content.
9. Kuli Kuli – Energy Bar
Kuli Kuli has the best natural superfood energy bars with no added sugar for a satisfying and healthy energy snack.
Choose from black cherry or dark chocolate flavors which contain half a cup of leafy moringa greens, as well as chia and pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.
These gluten-free, vegan bars are a convenient source of protein while at work or the gym, with wholesome ingredients that offer similar nutritional value to a fresh salad.
Kuli Kuli says its moringa energy bars are more nutritious than kale, with 2x as much protein, 4x as much iron, and 3x as much calcium.
Moringa also has more dietary fiber than kale for easy digestion and a protein-rich snack that’s gentle on the stomach.
The brand highlights the impressive nutritional content of this leafy green superfood that contains antioxidants, calcium, and iron all in a tasty energy bar form.
Pros
- Superfood energy bars with 1/2 cup leafy moringa greens.
- Similar nutrients to a fresh salad.
- High in protein, iron, calcium, and fiber.
- Contains antioxidants to protect against cell damage.
- Gluten-free and vegan.
- Black cherry or dark chocolate flavors.
Cons
- Contains almonds.
- Stronger flavor than other energy bars.
8. Skratch Labs – Energy Bars
If you like nuts and fruit, then Skratch Labs energy bars are a good go-to source of protein.
These anytime energy bars have 210 calories, 5g of protein, 29g of carbs, and 3g of dietary fiber. Essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and potassium are also included.
These low-sugar, gluten-free, and vegan energy bars have a refreshing natural flavor with fresh cherries and pistachios.
Chocolate chip & almond, peanut butter & strawberries, and raspberries & lemons are the other fun flavor options.
Skratch Labs says its energy bars can be eaten whenever hunger strikes, and are a good source of real food fuel for workouts.
These bars have 50% less sugar compared to traditional energy bars, offering the ideal macronutrient profile to satisfy daily snack cravings.
Many people eat these energy bars before intense physical activites like lifting, hiking, running, or cycling.
Pros
- Made with fresh nuts like pistachios and almonds.
- 29g of carbs and 5g of protein.
- Offers iron, calcium, and potassium.
- Low-sugar and gluten-free vegan energy bars.
- Kosher, vegan, and dairy-free.
- Salty and fruity flavors.
Cons
- Contains 140mg of sodium.
- Made with tree nuts.
7. GoMacro – Energy Bars
GoMacro has the best organic energy bars with smaller macrobars for protein replenishment.
These gluten-free bars pack a protein punch with 11g per serving, plus 11g of fat and 36g of carbs.
There is a wide variety of flavors including peanut butter, banana & almond butter, maple sea salt, cashew caramel, and sunflower butter, all made from organic, plant-based ingredients.
GoMacro bars are certified R.A.W., gluten-free, and vegan for an ultra-clean meal replacement or protein-rich snack.
280 calories per bar make up for energy spent throughout the day, especially during big workouts.
Potassium, iron, and calcium are also found in these macrobars.
The brand says it combines sweet and salty flavors with a focus on environmentally-conscious food production.
Pros
- High in carbs for energy replacement.
- Replenishes protein with 11g per bar.
- Certified organic, gluten-free, vegan, and R.A.W.
- Non-GMO ingredients.
- Variety of sweet and salty flavors.
- FODMAP friendly.
Cons
- 10g of added sugars.
- Contains peanuts.
6. Bearded Brothers – Vegan Energy Bar
Bearded Brothers makes vegan organic food bars to suit Whole30, gluten-free, and paleo diets.
The almond butter chocolate flavor is one of their most popular, but you can also enjoy coconut mango, ginger peach, maca chocolate, raspberry lemon, vanilla blueberry, and vanilla pecan.
All flavors are low glycemic and a good source of dietary fiber for easy digestion.
Bearded Brothers is a family food brand known for its soy-free, non-GMO vegan energy bars that have no added sugar.
Instead, they are naturally packed with protein and fiber from whole foods.
Their healthy ingredients include dark unsweetened chocolate, cacao nibs, cocoa powder, chia seeds, sea salt, dates, and almonds.
These bars have 190 calories, 22g of carbs, 5g of protein, and 4g of dietary fiber.
Pros
- Vegan energy bar made from real ingredients.
- 22g of carbs and 4g of fiber.
- 5g of protein to support muscles and physical activity.
- Natural chocolate and fruity flavors.
- Soy-free and non-GMO.
- Low glycemic index.
Cons
- Contains nut allergens.
- 2g of saturated fat.
5. Built Bar – Energy Bars
Built Bar offers tasty energy bars high in protein and fiber for sustained energy any time of day.
These bars have 130 calories, 17g of protein, 6g of dietary fiber, and 18g of carbs.
With 4g of sugar and 4g of net carbs, this brand provides a high-performance energy bar you can feel good about eating.
It’s made from 100% real chocolate with natural flavoring and no preservatives.
Built Bar has gluten-free energy bars in tasty flavors like coconut chocolate, mint brownie delete, and double chocolate mousse.
There are no tree nuts so these bars are suitable for people with nut allergies, and they are light and fluffy for easy chewing.
The brand says its bars are much less dense and gritty than typical protein bars, so you get a dessert-like energy bar with healthy protein and minerals.
Pros
- 17g of protein and 6g of dietary fiber.
- Source of calcium, iron, and potassium.
- Light and fluffy texture.
- Non-GMO and gluten-free.
- Made in a peanut/nut-free facility.
- 100% real chocolate flavors.
Cons
- High protein may make you feel quite full.
4. Chef Physique – Energy Bars
For higher protein and energy at the same time, try Chef Physique energy bars.
The peanut butter chocolate crunch flavor is super tasty and offers an impressive 18g of protein per bar.
It contains
These energy bars are ideal for meal replacement if you want a strong source of protein to start the morning or keep you going during the day.
The Chef Physique Golden Bar is gluten-free and made from 100% real food for a fit energy snack.
One bar has 241 calories, 12g of fat, and 23g of clean carbs. Plus, there’s 3mcg of vitamin D for 16% of the daily value, as well as vitamin A, calcium, iron, and potassium.
The brand recommends eating these bars after a workout or as a healthy dessert to complement a balanced diet and physical activity.
Pros
- 18g of protein support energy, strength, and muscle recovery.
- 3mcg of vitamin D – 16% daily value.
- Source of vitamin A, calcium, iron, and potassium.
- Delicious peanut butter chocolate crunch flavor.
- Adequate meal replacement bar.
- All real food ingredients.
Cons
- High protein content may be too filling.
- Contains soy, wheat, and tree nuts.
3. Picky Bars – Energy Bars
Picky Bars has fun, delicious flavors for gluten-free and vegan energy bars.
Take your pick from different flavors featuring a mix of chocolate, peanut butter, mint, almonds, hazelnuts, coffee, fruit, and honey.
These plant-based protein bars are made from complex carbs for long-lasting energy, with healthy fats that keep you going longer during the day and especially during exercise.
7g of protein per bar helps with muscle recovery, plus there’s 24g of carbs and 8g of fat.
In addition to dietary fiber to help your gut, Picky Bars have 2mg of iron, 289mg of potassium, and 17mg of calcium.
With just 190 calories per bar, this brand is a good option for healthy midday snacks that replenish energy without overdoing it on fats or calories.
Pros
- Gluten-free and vegan energy bars.
- 7g of plant-based protein for muscle recovery.
- Good source of iron, potassium, and calcium.
- Dietary fiber aids digestion.
- Complex carbs offer long-lasting energy.
- Unique flavors with chocolate, peanut butter, coffee, and fruit.
Cons
- May contain nuts.
- 2g of saturated fat.
2. Clif Bar – Energy Bars
Clif Bar is a big name in the energy bar scene, with a great reputation for flavorful energy bars that are a delicious source of protein.
Bestselling Clif Bar variety packs contain popular flavors like chocolate chip, chocolate brownie, crunchy peanut butter, peanut butter banana, blueberry crisp, white chocolate macadamia nut, and more.
These plant-based bars are made with organic oats for a kosher and vegetarian snack.
Clif Bar says its performance energy bars offer the ideal nutrition for sustained energy.
The brand carefully combines protein, carbohydrates, and fat to keep active bodies strong and energize throughout physical activity.
Clif Bars contain 9-11g of protein depending on the flavor, plus 250 calories, 45g of carbs, and 4gs of dietary fiber. These bars have zero cholesterol and no trans fat either.
Pros
- 9-11g of protein per bar.
- 250 calories and 45g of carbs.
- 4g of dietary fiber.
- Wide variety of flavors.
- Made with organic oats.
- Kosher and vegetarian.
Cons
- Includes added sugars and sodium.
1. RXBAR – Protein Bar
RXBAR has the best energy bars overall, with 12 g of protein in this tasty real food bar.
The chocolate sea salt flavor is one of the most popular, with a delicious brownie flavor that’s better for you.
It’s gluten-free and a good source of fiber with 5g to support healthy digestion.
The 100% pure chocolate protein bar has no added sugar or cholesterol for a delicious protein snack you can eat anytime.
RXBAR protein bars are paleo and Whole30 approved, with simple food ingredients for a wholesome source of protein.
You can eat them anytime, although they are a good breakfast or post-workout snack.
The brand is committed to using nine ingredients or fewer in all its bars while maintaining a similar nutritional profile no matter what the flavor.
In addition to chocolate sea salt, there are other popular flavors like blueberry, vanilla almond, peanut butter chocolate chip, and banana chocolate walnut.
Pros
- 12g of protein in every bar.
- 5g of dietary fiber for healthy digestion.
- 3 egg whites for protein.
- 6 almonds and 4 cases for texture.
- 2 dates for natural ingredient binding.
- Rich chocolate flavor.
Cons
- Contains tree nut allergens.
FAQs About Energy Bars
Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about energy bars:
Q: What Do Energy Bars Do?
Energy bars are nutrition-packed supplement bars that offer additional energy throughout the day.
They typically contain carbs, calories, and protein that your body needs to keep going.
Energy bars are a nutritious and tasty snack to fill the gap between meals or to increase energy and muscle strength for workouts.
Q: Do Energy Bars Work?
Energy bars do work in terms of replenishing energy throughout the day.
If you find yourself feeling tired or hungry as the day goes on, energy bars are a healthy snack with way fewer calories than processed snack foods like chips and chocolate.
Q: Are Energy Bars Healthy?
While every adult should get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day, many people like to do more.
Energy bars offer an extra boost of protein and carbs for greater energy throughout the day, which can motivate people to keep going during exercise and not skip a workout.
Energy bars are also healthy in that they contain many nutrients, such as dietary fiber, iron, and calcium.
Q: What Are the Side Effects of Energy Bars?
Energy bars don’t have many side effects, other than that they can make you feel full.
It’s best not to eat more than two energy bars a day, just to you make sure you get nutrients from a variety of food source.
Energy bars are a healthy alternative to energy drinks and highly caffeinated beverages that cause more side effects like jitteriness, headaches, insomnia, and upset stomach.
Q: When Should You Eat an Energy Bar?
The good thing about energy bars is that you can eat them at any time of day.
These nutritious bars are great for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or as a snack.
Most people eat energy bars about 1-2 hours before working out to ensure they have proper energy levels to complete their exercise.
Q: Are Energy Bars Good for Weight Loss?
Energy bars on their own won’t make you lose weight, but when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, they can make a difference.
That’s because energy bars are relatively low in calories and can replace unhealthy snacks or high-calorie meals.
To lose weight you need to burn more calories than you take in, and energy bars may help you do that.
Q: Do Energy Bars Help You Lose Weight?
Energy bars may help with weight loss by keeping unhealthy snacking to a minimum.
If you’re trying to be more calorie-conscious while also boosting your physical fitness, energy bars provide healthy protein, carbs, and calories to keep you feeling fueled and full.
Many people who struggle with snacking see positive results when they switch to highly nutritious energy bars in between meals.
Q: What Happens When You Eat an Energy Bar?
When you eat an energy bar, your body takes in the nutrients and converts carbs into sugar for energy.
Energy bars also have enough protein to fill you up, so if you’re feeling hungry but it’s not time for a meal, they are a great nutrient-rich snack.
Q: How Do Energy Bars Work?
Energy bars contain ample carbs, calories, and protein to support your body and keep you energized as the day goes on.
These bars may be made from foods naturally high in carbs, such as nuts and fruit. Healthy ingredients are combined into a supplement bar that delivers fast protein, carbs, and fiber.
Your body breaks down carbs into glucose sugar, which is used for energy.
If you’re feeling like you need a nap during the day, or you want additional energy before working out, then energy bars are a good option.
Q: How Quickly Do Energy Bars Work?
Your body will start digesting energy bars right away, and they should help you feel full and fueled for a few hours after eating. Most people eat energy bars about 1-2 hours before working out.
Q: Are Energy Bars and Protein Bars the Same?
Energy bars and protein bars have a lot of similarities, although their key purpose is different.
Energy bars are designed to give you a quick boost of energy through carbs and sugars. Protein bars are meant to meet protein needs to fill you up and give your body sustained strength.
Both are important, although protein bars are better for those who want to boost their protein intake, particularly before a big workout.
If you want a healthy, energy-rich snack to help you last during the day, energy bars are the way to go.
Protein and carbs are both important. Remember that energy bars contain protein too, just not as much as most protein bars.
Carbs are the body’s main energy source, so if you’re feeling tired and hungry, a high-carb energy bar can do the trick.
Q: How Many Energy Bars Can I Eat a Day?
Most people stick to 1-2 energy bars a day, although you can eat more if you prefer.
Energy bars are filling and contain enough protein to satisfy hunger for at least a few hours.
Eating 3-4 energy bars or even more in a day isn’t ideal as you’re missing out on important nutrients from fresh fruits, veggies, meats, and grains.
Q: Which Energy Bar to Choose?
There are hundreds of energy bars you can choose from, with different flavors and nutritional content.
The best way to choose an energy bar is to look for a flavor that sounds good to you, whether that be something fruity like blueberry crisp or something sweet like chocolate brownie.
Finding a flavor you love helps you choose a healthier snack without losing the delicious taste.
Some energy bars have more protein, carbs, and calories than others. If you are doing a huge workout and need to load up on carbs for energy, then a high-carb energy bar is good for you.
If you’re on a low-carb diet, look for a protein-rich energy bar with minimal carbs.
Always check the nutritional label and when in doubt, a variety pack may help you decide which energy bar brand and flavor you like the best.
Summary
Energy bars live up to their name by providing a tasty, convenient source of energy and nutrients.
These supplemental bars offer enough carbs and calories to replenish calories burnt throughout the day.
Many people eat energy bars ahead of a workout, but you can have them whenever you’re feeling hungry and in need of an energy boost.
Just keep in mind there are many flavors available, from sweet to salty, and some energy bars are higher in calories, carbs, and protein than others.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best energy bars:
- RXBAR – Protein Bar (Best Energy Bar Overall)
- Clif Bar – Energy Bars (Best Energy Bar Flavors)
- Picky Bars – Energy Bars (Best Gluten-Free Energy Bar)
- Chef Physique – Energy Bars (Best High-Protein Energy Bars)
- Built Bar – Energy Bars
- Bearded Brothers – Vegan Energy Bar (Best Vegan Energy Bar)
- GoMacro – Energy Bars (Best Organic Energy Bars)
- Skratch Labs – Energy Bar (Best Energy Bars With Nuts)
- Kuli Kuli – Energy Bar (Best Superfood Energy Bar)
- PowerBar – Energy Bars(Best Athletic Energy Bars)
