What kinds of nutrition bars are available?
There are many different types of bars available for different requirements and nutrition goals. These include:
Energy Bars – Typically contains more carbohydrates plus a moderate amount of protein and fat. They're made to provide fast fuel for athletes who have high energy demands. Use them to complement a normal healthy diet. Energy bar brands include PowerBar, Promax, Greens Plus, Power Crunch, Balance and Clif.
Protein Bars – Greater protein-to-fat/carbohydrate radio. Some have more carbohydrates than others. Higher carb protein bars are great as a post-workout meal, helping in muscle recovery and muscle growth. Lower carb protein bars are an excellent tool, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle, for weight loss and weight maintenance. Popular protein bar brands include Quest Nutrition, Worldwide Sports, Think Thin, EAS, Rise, Labrada and Universal Nutrition.
Diet/Lower Carb Bars – Generally lower carbohydrates and total calories; used to help in weight loss and weight maintenance in combination with a healthy lifestyle.
Meal Replacement Bars – Usually have more calories and a balanced protein/fat/carbohydrate ratio. They're designed to be eaten instead of a meal. Breakfast bars are popular as a substitute for what is the most critical meal of the day. They're convenient for a busy lifestyle and can be consumed "on-the-go." MRBs contain vitamins and various other nutrients.
Other nutrition bar brands include Atkins, Zone Perfect, Power Crunch, Nugo Nutrition and ISS Research.
Health Benefits of Bars
Nutrition bars are a smart addition to a healthy, well-balanced diet. They provide a convenient way to supplement the body with essential vitamins, minerals and other important dietary supplements. A bar is also an easy way for dieters, athletes and anyone else trying to maintain a certain weight to keep meal portion size under control.
How to Use Nutrition Bars as Part of a Heathy Diet
Any of our nutrition bars can be the perfect addition to a well-balance, healthy diet, but they should not be used as a complete substitute for regular food sources. Certain bars might be high in saturated fat, and there may be language such as "non-impact carbs" on the packaging that's used for calculating total carbohydrates. You should always read the label carefully to choose the best bars for your dietary requirements and goals.