Cookies & Cream Bars

by Clinical

Highly processed protein bar with artificial sweeteners and emulsifiers that may disrupt gut health. While fortified with vitamins, the ultra-processed nature and potential digestive issues from sugar alcohols outweigh benefits.

• Soy Protein Isolate – controversial · Highly processed protein that may contain hexane residues and phytoestrogens, though provides complete amino acid profile.
• Whey Protein Isolate – beneficial · High-quality complete protein that supports muscle synthesis and recovery.
• Prebiotic Tapioca Fiber – beneficial · Soluble fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria and supports digestive health.
• Maltitol Syrup – controversial · Sugar alcohol that can cause significant digestive upset including bloating, gas, and diarrhea in many people.
• Maltitol – controversial · Sugar alcohol with high glycemic index that commonly causes digestive distress and loose stools.
• Sorbitol – controversial · Sugar alcohol known to cause laxative effects and digestive upset even in small amounts.
• Almond Butter – beneficial · Whole food source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
• Palm Kernel Oil – controversial · Highly saturated tropical oil with environmental sustainability concerns but relatively stable for processing.
• Carrageenan – controversial · Seaweed extract linked to intestinal inflammation and digestive issues in some studies.
• Natural Flavors – safe · Generally recognized as safe flavoring compounds, though specific ingredients are proprietary.
• Stevia – safe · Natural zero-calorie sweetener derived from stevia plant with good safety profile.
• Vegetable Glycerine – safe · Humectant that provides moisture and sweetness with minimal metabolic impact.
• Uncooked Cornstarch – safe · Simple starch used for binding and texture, generally well-tolerated.
• Cocoa Powder – beneficial · Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids that support cardiovascular and cognitive health.
• Vitamin Mineral Blend – beneficial · Comprehensive fortification providing essential vitamins and minerals often lacking in processed foods.
• Tapioca Starch – safe · Neutral starch from cassava root used for binding and texture.
• Soy Lecithin – safe · Common emulsifier that helps ingredients blend together, generally well-tolerated.
• Cocoa Powder (Processed with Alkali) – safe · Dutch-processed cocoa with reduced antioxidants but improved flavor and color stability.
• Salt – safe · Essential mineral used for flavor enhancement in appropriate quantities.
• Water – safe · Essential for product hydration and texture formation.
• Whey Powder – beneficial · Dairy protein source providing complete amino acids and supporting muscle health.
• Calcium Carbonate – safe · Calcium supplement that supports bone health, though absorption may be limited.
• Non Fat Dry Milk – safe · Concentrated milk proteins and lactose for flavor and nutrition.
• Sodium Citrate – safe · Sodium salt used as preservative and pH buffer with good safety profile.
• Palm Kernel and Palm Oil – controversial · Saturated fats with environmental concerns but relatively stable for food processing.

High protein content for muscle support

Added vitamins and minerals

No added sugars

Contains beneficial prebiotic fiber

Ultra-processed with 25+ additives

Sugar alcohols cause digestive upset

Carrageenan linked to gut inflammation

Palm oil environmental concerns

Artificial sweetener overload