Best Low-Sugar High-Protein Snacks
Snacks with 1–3g sugar and 12–20g protein — perfect for weight loss, clean eating, and blood-sugar control.
If you want to stay full, satisfied, and in control of your hunger without the sugar crash — these snacks deliver. We analyzed 40+ top-selling products and handpicked the ones with **1–3g sugar** and **12–20g protein** per serving.
Top Picks Under 3g Sugar
Top Picks Under 3g Sugar
| Snack | Protein | Sugar | Score | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quest Protein Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough | 21g | 1g | 21.0 | 200 | $1.60 |
| Quest Protein Bar Cookies & Cream | 21g | 1g | 21.0 | 190 | $1.60 |
| Quest Protein Chips Ranch | 19g | 1g | 19.0 | 140 | $2.29 |
| IQBAR Peanut Butter Chip Bar | 12g | 1g | 12.0 | 180 | $2.10 |
Quest Protein Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Quest Nutrition
200 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Quest Protein Bar Cookies & Cream
Quest Nutrition
190 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Quest Protein Chips Ranch
Quest Nutrition
140 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
IQBAR Peanut Butter Chip Bar
IQBAR
180 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Why Low Sugar + High Protein Works
When sugar is low but protein is high, your hunger signals normalize — helping you snack smarter without overeating later. That’s why these snacks support cravings control, weight loss, and better energy levels.
What Counts as Low-Sugar?
We use a science-backed standard: 3g sugar or less per serving from added or natural sources. We allow sugar alcohols like erythritol because they don’t spike blood glucose and align with consumer expectations for low-sugar bars.
Quick Comparison: Protein, Calories & Sugar
Quick Comparison: Protein, Calories & Sugar
| Snack | Protein | Sugar | Score | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quest Protein Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough | 21g | 1g | 21.0 | 200 | $1.60 |
| Quest Protein Bar Cookies & Cream | 21g | 1g | 21.0 | 190 | $1.60 |
| Quest Protein Chips Ranch | 19g | 1g | 19.0 | 140 | $2.29 |
| IQBAR Peanut Butter Chip Bar | 12g | 1g | 12.0 | 180 | $2.10 |
Quest Protein Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Quest Nutrition
200 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Quest Protein Bar Cookies & Cream
Quest Nutrition
190 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Quest Protein Chips Ranch
Quest Nutrition
140 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
IQBAR Peanut Butter Chip Bar
IQBAR
180 cal / serving
View on Amazon →Available on Amazon
Common Mistakes People Make
Avoid snacks that are labeled high protein but still pack 10–14g sugar — they cause the same blood sugar spike as candy bars. Also watch out for high-fat trail mixes pretending to be “fitness snacks.”
Recommended Snacks
Quest Nutrition
Quest Protein Bar Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Quest Nutrition
Quest Protein Bar Cookies & Cream
Quest Nutrition
Quest Protein Chips Ranch
IQBAR
IQBAR Peanut Butter Chip Bar
FAQs
Are sugar alcohols okay?
Yes for most people — they don’t spike blood sugar. But if you get digestive issues, start with half a bar.
Are these snacks good for diabetics?
They are **far better** than high-sugar bars, but always check total carbs and talk to your dietitian if diabetic.
Can this help weight loss?
Absolutely. Protein suppresses hunger, and low sugar prevents cravings from returning 1–2 hours later.
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