Whey protein is the best protein to consume after a workout, particularly whey isolate. Whey isolates are absorbed by the body very quickly and yield a very high percentage (min. 90%) of pure protein. They help build muscle, support recovery, and maintain strength while working out to burn fat. Here's a few of our favorites to help get you pumped.
Lean, Mean, Protein
Made of 23g of whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, the high amino acid composition of these bars stimulate muscle growth making them ideal for gaining and maintaining lean muscle mass. The amino acids are rapidly absorbed from this perfect post workout snack.
Vegan Life
These vegan protein bars have 20g of pure plant protein, and great for refueling and repairing muscles post workout. They're organic, gluten free, dairy free, soy free, and come in four great-tasting flavors.
Bare Essentials
There are only five ingredients in these bars: almonds, honey, whey protein isolate, organic cinnamon, and organic vanilla. Eat this high protein bar for your post workout performance recovery and get all your macros in while you're at it. They contain nutritious whole ingredients, no fillers or additives.
Budget Friendly
These bars are made with 20g of high-quality whey and milk protein to help rebuild your muscles post workout so you can come back strong. They were developed to fuel athletes, and at $11 for a 12 pack, they definitely won't drain your wallet.
Pure & Raw
These bars are filled with real food – most of it locally sourced and organic. You won't find any junk in these protein bars. Loaded with antioxidants, 20g of protein, and 10g of fiber, these post-workout snacks are all business, no BS.
Great Value
This macro friendly bar has 20g of whey isolate, whey protein concentrate, and milk protein concentrate. It provides a unique crunchy texture and makes for a great snack or meal replacement.
Great Taste
This protein bar is loaded with whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate. Designed by celebrity chef Robert Irvine, they provide top-quality nutrition and an unmatched taste that you'd expect from a world-renowned chef.
Pure Isolate
Made with 20+ grams of grass-fed pure whey isolate protein, these are one of the few pure isolate bars out there. They come at a slightly higher price point, but you get what you pay for. Locally made and ethically sourced, you can't go wrong eating one of these post-workout.
Protein Krispy Treat
Crunchy, chewy, sweet without the cheat! 15g of protein, 5g of sugar, and no artificial ingredients make these bars the perfect, healthy fix for your sweet tooth.
Muscle UP
This protein bar is packed with 20g of protein, is gluten free, contains no GMOs, and is low in sugar & carbs. It doesn't hurt that they taste good too.
Super Powers
This bar contains a whopping 30g of protein! DO NOT consume if you have kidney issues as these could spur complications. These are designed for the body builder extraordinaire or those that really want to bulk up.
To sum things up
Our fave is the Permalean Protein Bar (opens in new tab) because it's packed with 20g of pure whey isolate and milk isolate protein, and it won't break the bank. If you're a vegan or vegetarian, you'll want to stick with the Garden of Life Organic Sport Protein Bar (opens in new tab) to get 20g of pure plant protein. If you're looking to splurge and want to go 100% whey isolate protein, try the Marigold Whey Protein Bar (opens in new tab).
It's a great idea to consume any of these bars post workout after considering any dietary or health restrictions so you can support muscle recovery, build muscle in future workouts, and maintain muscle while working out to burn fat. Consuming 20 grams of protein within 2 hours after a workout is the most effective to promote maximum muscle growth. Beware, a much heavier dose likely won't have any major added benefit and might actually pose potential health complications in those with kidney issues. So, don't over-do it!
Nicolette is a freelance writer for iMore. With over a decade of high-level experience as a health and fitness professional, Nicolette has become an expert in the industry. As a writer, quadruple-certified master fitness instructor, DJ/MC, and mom; she’s had the pleasure of working with some of the top websites, studios, and brands in the world throughout her career. A dedicated creative, Nicolette enjoys writing about all things: health, fitness, audio, and home. If she’s not working, you can find her sipping a glass of wine, enjoying a concert, or hanging with her family.
