Selecting The Best Energy Bars

By Doris Rivas


Choosing the best energy bars can be a daunting endeavor for many individuals. This is largely due to the fact that there are so many options on today's market. Below are some facts that may make the selection process a bit easier:



Most people are well aware of the dangers of a diet that is high in fat, and therefore many consumers prefer low-fat snacks. However, it is wise to choose a bar with a little fat in order to ensure one feels satisfied after it is consumed. When determining the fat content, the most important consideration is its source.

For instance, if the bar's ingredient list starts with pumpkin seeds, peanut butter and organic oats, which are often found in products of this type, one can safely make the assumption that its fat content is probably from nutritious sources. In a similar way, terms such as whey proteins or glucose syrup indicate that the grams of fat in the bar are not from healthy sources.

Regarding carbohydrates, consumers should think about how they will be using the bar. For example, if the person is planning a strenuous workout or preparing to run a race, a brand containing as many as 40 carbohydrate grams is suitable. However, if the person is looking for a healthy snack to avoid craving junk food before his or her next meal, a low carbohydrate bar is a more appropriate choice.

Protein is also an important consideration when choosing a bar. Although brands with excessively high amounts of protein, such as 30 grams per bar, are usually not necessary unless one is using it to refuel after a strenuous weightlifting session. However, it is good to choose an option that contains approximately 8 to 10 protein grams.

Additionally, one should be wary of sugar alcohols. Snack products that are touted as sugar-free often contain this ingredient. Sugar alcohols, however, can create gastrointestinal problems, such as uncomfortable bloating and gas.

Regardless of how one will be using the bar, high-fiber options are usually a good choice. This is due to the fact that high-fiber diets are essentially always healthy and it rarely does any harm for a person to consume extra fiber. In addition, one can safely assume that the majority of brands that advertise high-fiber are made by health conscious manufacturers. This is because snacks that contain junk food ingredients or high amounts of sugar rarely contain fiber as well.

Fortified bars are also a good option if one is interested in consuming an extra amount of certain vitamins. For example, some manufacturers add vitamin C to their products, while others fortify them with iron or antioxidants. This decision will largely depend on one's personal taste and preferences.

When making a selection, consumers should also look for brands that list foods such as whole grains or nuts as one of the first ingredients. This is because whichever ingredients are listed first on the nutrition panel are found in the product in the greatest amounts. Ultimately, the best energy bars are those that contain a balance of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and a significant amount of whole, unprocessed foods.




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