Selecting The Best Energy Bars

By Doris Rivas


Many individuals have a difficult time determining which are the best energy bars. This is likely due to the fact that there is such a broad range of options available. The following are some facts that may make it easier for one to choose the best bar:

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 example, if the nutrition panel lists pumpkin seeds, organic oats or peanut butter first, which are ingredients often found in snack bars, the fat the bar contains is probably from healthy sources. Similarly, if the ingredient panel lists products such as glucose syrups or whey proteins, the source of the fat is most likely unhealthy.

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.

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.

It is also wise to beware of sugar alcohols. This ingredient is often used in snack bars that are advertised as sugar-free. However, sugar alcohols can cause GI distress, such as uncomfortable gas and bloating.

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 selecting a brand, shoppers should look for options that list nuts, whole grains or other foods as one of the primary ingredients. This is due to the fact that whichever ingredients are first on the nutrition panel list are those that are found in the bar in the highest amounts. The best energy bars are ultimately those that feature a balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as well as a significant amount of unprocessed, whole foods.




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