Choosing 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:

With the many health hazards associated with a high-fat diet, it is not surprising that most people prefer bars that are low in fat. However, it is a good idea to choose a brand that contains a little fat, so that the person will be satisfied with his or her snack. The source of the fat is more important than the total fat content.

For example, if the list of ingredients begins with organic oats, peanut butter and pumpkin seeds, which are commonly found in such products, it is safe to assume that the fat is from healthy sources. Similarly, terms such as glucose syrup or whey protein are indicators that the fat grams in the bar are not from nutritious sources.

With regard to carbohydrates, one should consider the purpose for which the bar will be used. For instance, if the purchaser is a runner preparing for a race or strenuous workout, a bar containing up to 40 grams of carbohydrates is appropriate. However, if the individual is searching for a healthy snack to stave off the desire for junk food in between meals, a bar that is low in carbohydrates is a better choice.

Consumers should not overlook protein when selecting a bar. Although brands with an excessively high number of protein grams, such as those that contain thirty or more in each bar, are not typically necessary unless the person will be eating the bar to refuel after a vigorous session of weightlifting. However, it is wise to select a brand that contains up to ten grams of protein.

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.

Those who are interested in acquiring extra amounts of specific vitamins should consider fortified bars. For instance, some manufacturers make bars that contain extra antioxidants or iron. Similarly, some fortify their products with vitamin C. This decision is essentially dependent upon the consumer's personal taste and preference.

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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