One of the most frequent questions I get from clients is, “What can I eat for snacks?” Many are eating junky protein bars that contain whey or soy protein isolates and lots of sugar. Lara bars or Kind bars are a better choice but are still high in sugars due to dried fruits and added sweetener. While I don’t endorse much snacking (read why here), a small snack between lunch and dinner is usually necessary if you’re eating lunch at noon and dinner at 7pm.
So, instead of the high sugar, processed snack bars, why not make your own? You can control what goes into them, they’re tasty, and they last quite a while. Perfect for snacking and satisfying a craving for something salty and a little sweet (and sometimes chocolatey!) Check out these easy homemade paleo protein bar recipes.
I’ve put together a list of my favorite recommended snack bars, some higher protein than others. These are all grain and dairy free options. Also check out my list of great paleo snacks of all types.
Homemade Paleo Protein Bar Recipes
Chocolate Pudding Protein Bars contain gut healing gelatin for added protein. Read why gelatin is such a superfood and why you should include it in your diet!
I like this recipe because you can add whatever protein powder you use to boost the protein content. I recommend this paleo protein powder, which comes in either vanilla or chocolate.
Nutty chocolate coconut bars are a mix of omega 3 fatty acid-rich nuts and seeds, and chocolate too!
Paleo on-the-go bars are similar to LaraBars (without the GMOs) and include tons of different flavor profile options.
OK, these aren’t bars per se, but these trail mix cookies look so damn good, don’t they?
Mary Vance is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and author specializing in digestive health. She combines a science-based approach with natural therapies to rebalance the body. In addition to her 1:1 coaching, she offers courses to help you heal your gut and improve your health. Mary lives in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Read more about her coaching practice here and her background here.
Bookmarking this for the next time I go camping and need SNACKS!
Why do you imply Lara Bars have GMOs? The packages say NON-GMO.
LaraBar is owned by General Mills, which donated $520,000 to defeat California’s Prop 37, the prop that overrides GMO labeling so that consumers don’t know if the food is GM. LaraBar has committed to using GMO-free ingredients, but I would never support General Mills.
Hi, I was wondering what you think of peanuts /peanut butter and it’s place, if any, in a healing diet?
Peanuts and peanut butter (even organic) often carry a toxic mold called aflatoxin that many people react to. Peanuts are also a common food allergen. If you don’t have fungal issues or allergies, it’s ok, but not my top choice. Walnuts, brazil nuts, almonds and their butters have a superior nutrient profile.