Are Energy Bars a Waste of Energy?
Ever wonder, halfway through an energy bar, what you’re really biting into? How energized you’ll be in an hour or two? Are all those calories worth it?
The good, the bad, the gender specific.
Energy bars contain protein and fiber-dense carbohydrates for energy and satiety. You’re essentially getting an easy-to-eat peanut brittle flavored apple and hard boiled egg inspired snack. Most energy bars, due to their economy of nutrient-packing-goodness, are high in calories. You might be better off sticking to the apple (about 70 calories) and egg (another 70 to 100 calories depending on size). Energy bars come in all shapes and sizes, some are marketed to be gender specific, some are marketed at the serious body builder. Here are some tips to keep in mind across the board, when selecting an energy bar.
Calories count (so you should count them)
Energy bars are often meant to replace a whole meal. The problem with this, is we regular folks eat energy bars as a snack between meals. Most people eat energy bars as a late afternoon pickup or right before the gym. For this reason, it’s important to find an energy bar that suits your needs. Pick a fiber rich, low calorie bar before the gym. Luna Bars are a great option. If you are interested in a meal replacement bar, stop by a local vitamin shop and get a good recommendation. Some of the meal replacement bars I've seen are five dollar well-disguised Snickers with some protein IV'd. I wouldn't recommend that to anyone. Especially my lovely readers whom I adore.
Go Nuts!
Instead of an energy bar, reach for a handful of nuts, which are high in protein, high in fiber, and healthy for your heart. Studies suggest that people who eat nuts a few times a week have a lower incidence of heart disease than people who don’t.
Pick a good ratio.
Look for an energy bar that has a snack-range of calories (150 - 300 calories) and contains about 5 grams of protein, and 3 or more grams of fiber.
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