Lean Bar

by General Nutrition Centers

A processed protein bar with decent protein content but reliant on heavily processed soy protein and seed oils. Contains artificial sweeteners and multiple additives that may disrupt gut health over time.

• Soy Protein Crisps – controversial · Highly processed soy protein that may contain phytoestrogens and is often from GMO sources
• Soy Protein Isolate – controversial · Ultra-processed protein with potential hormone-disrupting compounds and stripped of natural nutrients
• Tapioca Starch – safe · Natural starch from cassava root, generally well-tolerated
• Salt – safe · Essential mineral, moderate amounts are beneficial
• Prebiotic Dietary Vegetable Fiber – beneficial · Supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria
• Gluten-Free Oats – beneficial · Whole grain providing fiber and nutrients
• Sugar – controversial · Refined sugar that can spike blood glucose and contribute to inflammation
• Palm Kernel Oil – controversial · Highly saturated processed oil that may contribute to inflammation
• Cocoa Powder – beneficial · Contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds
• Whey Powder – safe · Dairy protein that's well-absorbed and contains essential amino acids
• Nonfat Milk Powder – safe · Concentrated milk proteins and nutrients
• Soy Lecithin – safe · Natural emulsifier, generally well-tolerated in small amounts
• Natural Vanilla Flavor – safe · Natural flavoring compound derived from vanilla beans
• Canola Oil – controversial · Highly processed seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids that may promote inflammation
• Maize Dextrin – safe · Soluble fiber derived from corn that supports digestive health
• Unsweetened Chocolate – beneficial · Contains antioxidants and beneficial compounds without added sugar
• Cocoa Butter – safe · Natural fat from cacao beans with neutral health profile
• Natural Vanilla Extract – safe · Natural flavoring with antioxidant properties
• Vegetable Glycerin – safe · Natural humectant that helps retain moisture
• Natural Flavors – safe · Flavoring compounds derived from natural sources
• Water – safe · Essential solvent and hydration source
• Potassium Citrate – beneficial · Essential mineral for heart and muscle function
• Magnesium Citrate – beneficial · Essential mineral for hundreds of enzymatic reactions
• Niacinamide – beneficial · Vitamin B3 essential for energy metabolism
• Thiamin Mononitrate – beneficial · Vitamin B1 essential for nervous system function
• Folic Acid – beneficial · B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division
• Biotin – beneficial · B vitamin important for metabolism and gene regulation
• Cyanocobalamin – beneficial · Vitamin B12 essential for nervous system and red blood cell formation
• Sea Salt – safe · Natural salt with trace minerals
• Xanthan Gum – safe · Natural thickener that may support digestive health in small amounts
• Sucralose – controversial · Artificial sweetener that may disrupt gut microbiome and glucose metabolism

High protein content

Added vitamins and minerals

Prebiotic fiber

Gluten-free

Convenient protein source

Canola and palm kernel oils

Artificial sweetener sucralose

Highly processed soy protein

Multiple industrial additives

Potential hormone disruption