Bariatric Protein Bars

Following bariatric surgery, patients are typically recommended a high-protein, low-carb diet to support weight loss, preserve muscle mass, and promote healing. However, meeting daily protein requirements can be challenging due to reduced food intake. This is where protein bars come in.

Bariatric protein bars are the perfect way to supplement protein intake. But not all protein bars are created equal. The best protein bars for weight loss surgery patients are low in sugar, high in protein, made with high quality protein blends, and are also tasty and bariatric-patient approved! 

How to Choose the Right Protein Bar After Weight Loss Surgery

As a bariatric patients, choosing the right protein bar is important to make sure you're getting the most out of your snack. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Check the Protein Content: Aim for bars with at least 10g of protein. This will provide a substantial protein boost to help meet your daily requirements.

2. Type of Protein: Popular protein bars are usually made with any combination of Whey, Soy, Casein, Pea, or Rice proteins. Each with it's own benefits.

3. Watch Out for Sugar: Many protein bars are high in sugar, which can lead to unwanted weight gain. Look for bars with low sugar content.

4. Consider the Calories: While protein bars are convenient, they can be high in calories. Be sure to factor this into your daily caloric intake.

5. Taste Matters: Ultimately, you want a bar that you enjoy eating. Consider trying a variety pack to find your favorite flavors.

6. Read Reviews: Look through some verified reviews of the bariatric protein bars that you are considering. You'll see what other customers are saying instead of relying on the manufacturer.

Types of Protein in Bariatric Protein Bars

The 11 Best Bariatric Protein Bars

The best protein bars for bariatric patients are bars that are typically a little smaller than average size because of the reduced size of a bariatric patient's stomach. Bariatric protein bars are usually about 140-180 Calories per bar and have 10-15g protein. We've compiled this list from our 10+ years of product sales and reviews including online and in-clinic sales. We pulled data from Bariatric Food Source as well and have also considered Verified Product Reviews when putting together this list. 

1. Caramel Crunch Bars

   

   Known for it's ability to calm your sweet-tooth is the Caramel Crunch Protein Bars. These bars combine crispy nuggets, delectable caramel filling, and a smooth chocolate coating for a guilt-free high-protein treat. Each bar is packed with 15g of protein and only 170 calories, making it a great choice for a post-workout snack or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Customers praise the rich caramel and sweet chocolate flavors of these bars, with many saying they help curb their cravings for sweets.

   
   
   
   

2. Vanilla Shortbread Bars:

   

   For those on a bariatric journey, the Vanilla Shortbread Bars are a delightful blend of taste and nutrition, evoking the comforting aroma of freshly baked shortbread cookies. Each bar is a compact source of 15g protein and 5g fiber, all within a modest 160 calories, making it an ideal choice for your weight management goals post-surgery. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, these bars are designed to keep you satiated and energized, supporting your unique nutritional needs. They've been praised by fellow bariatric patients for their delicious taste, satisfying texture, and convenience as a portable protein source.

   
   
   
   

3. Divine Caramel Sea Salt Bars

   

   These bars are a "divine" combination of caramel and sea salt. The Divine Caramel Sea Salt Protein Bar is a smooth treat that offers 15g of protein, 5g of fiber, and has a protein blend of soy, whey, and egg white. It's a perfect snack for bariatric patients, providing a satisfying balance of sweet and salty flavors while keeping your nutritional needs in check. It's not just about the taste; this bar is also gluten-free and contains only 150 calories. Customers rave about the delicious taste, with many noting that it doesn't have the typical protein bar aftertaste.

   
   
   
   

4. Fluffy Nutter Bar

   

   Another sweet and savory treat is the Fluffy Nutter Bar. This protein bar is a delightful blend of peanut butter and marshmallow flavors, packed with 7g of fiber, 15g of protein and only 160 calories. It's a great choice for bariatric patients who want a satisfying snack with a great protein blend of whey, soy, egg, and milk protein. Customers love the unique flavor combination and appreciate the bar's soft, easy-to-eat texture similar to a rice krispy treat.

   
   
   
   

5. S'mores Chocolate Marshmallow Bar:

   

   The S'mores Chocolate Marshmallow Bar offers a classic chocolate and marshmallow blend that is another great choice for a chocolate craving. Despite their great chocolate taste, these bars are packed with 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, making them a filling and nutritious bariatric meal replacement option. With only 160 calories per bar and enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, these bars are a great choice for replacing a sugary snack. The high-quality protein blend and the positive customer reviews make these bars a top choice for a meal replacement bar.

   
   
   
   

6. Frosted Lemon Meringue Bars

   

   Brighten up your snack time with the Frosted Lemon Meringue Bars. These bars are a perfect balance of lemon coating around a crispy frosted cookie, making them an excellent high-protein dessert bar. Each bar provides 10g of protein and 150 calories, making them a light and refreshing choice for bariatric patients. The bars are trans fat-free, aspartame-free, and gelatin-free, catering to various dietary needs.

   
   
   
   
   

7. Chocolate Caramel Wafer Bars:

   

   The Chocolate Caramel Wafer Bars blend a smooth combination of chocolate and caramel, making them a delicious bariatric meal replacement option. Each bar contains 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied. With 160 calories per bar, it's an excellent choice for those on a bariatric diet. The bars are also fortified with 17 essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring you're getting a well-rounded nutritional profile. The customer reviews highlight the bar's great taste and texture, making it a popular choice.

   
   
   
   

8. Proti-Fit Wafer Squares

   

   Light as air and delightfully sweet, the Proti-Fit Wafer Squares are a perfect snack or dessert for bariatric patients. Although not an actual "bar", these squares provide the same nutrition while also giving you a different snack option. Choose from chocolate, mocha, lemon, raspberry, and vanilla flavors. Each serving is packed with 15 grams of protein and only 200-210 calories. The fluffy wafers are a delightful way to keep your protein intake high without sacrificing taste. Customers love the variety of flavors and the light, crunchy texture of these wafers.

   
   
   
   

9. Fudge Graham Bars:

   

   The Fudge Graham Bars offer a unique combination of rich fudge and graham flavor, making them a delicious bariatric protein bar option. Each bar contains 15 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber. With only 160 calories per bar, it's an excellent choice for those on a bariatric diet. The bars are also fortified with 17 essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring you're getting a well-rounded nutritional profile. The customer reviews highlight the bar's great taste and texture, making it a popular choice.

   
   
   
   

10. White Chocolate Caramel Bars:

    

    The White Chocolate Caramel Bars are a sweet and satisfying bariatric bar option. These bars offer a unique combination of smooth caramel and a hint of vanilla, providing a delightful sweeter taste. Each bar contains 15 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber, and only 160 calories. Additionally, these bars are enriched with 17 essential vitamins and minerals.

    
    
    
    

11. Protein Bar Variety Pack

    

    Can't decide on a single flavor? The 15g Protein Bar Variety Pack is here to save the day. This pack includes seven top-selling bariatric meal replacement protein bars, each providing 15g Protein, 5g Fiber, 17-20 Vitamins & Minerals, and only 160 Calories each. The variety pack is a great way to sample different flavors and find your favorite. A few of the protein bars in this variety pack also make our top bariatric protein bars list!

    
    
    
    

Conclusion

For weight loss surgery patients, maintaining a balanced bariatric diet can really be a challenge. That's where bariatric protein bars come into play. Each bar that made our list is carefully formulated to provide a high amount of protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, they come in a variety of flavors to suit every palate, making it easier to stick to your diet plan. Remember, the key to success after weight loss surgery is making sustainable changes to your eating habits, and bariatric protein bars are a delicious and convenient part of that journey.

Further Reading

For those who've undergone bariatric surgery, maintaining proper nutrition is key. Protein shakes can be a convenient and effective way to meet your nutritional needs. Check out our collection of bariatric protein shakes and learn about what makes a protein shake desirable for a weight loss surgery patient.

Author: Carrie H. Carrie is a dedicated health and nutrition writer with a strong background in medical and scientific research. She is driven by a passion for helping others lead healthier lives, diving into the latest scientific research. Combining evidence-based knowledge with practical advice, Carrie strives to provide accurate and valuable information on health, nutrition, and wellness. Her ultimate aim is to empower readers, enabling them to make informed choices about their well-being.

Reviewed By: Dr. Huffman Dr. Kevin D. Huffman, D.O., is a leading board-certified bariatric physician with extensive expertise in treating obesity. He has trained countless healthcare providers and founded American Bariatric Consultants to develop protocols and training materials sought by medical societies, pharmaceutical companies, patients, and hospitals. Dr. Huffman's impact extends beyond patient care as he prepares physicians for board certification, expanding access to this vital treatment.