If you've ever had days when you were so busy that there was no time to eat, you will know how handy a snack bar is. You can pop it into your bag before you leave the house and you'll have something to nibble on while you're running to the next meeting. You can keep one in your desk drawer to get you through the morning until you can go on your lunch break. Having some on hand for the kids will stave off their hunger pangs when you're driving somewhere. Healthy snack bars have become an indispensable part of modern life.
The problem is that there is such a variety of products on the market that it is difficult to choose the best option. In addition, not all products that claim that they are healthy are indeed good for you. The secret to making the best choice is to read the product information on the packaging.
First you need to know the difference between a snack bar, which is supposed to keep away hunger pangs, and an energy bar. The latter is designed to provide you with a quick, intense burst of energy. This is great if you're on your way to the gym, on a hike or about to take part in an afternoon of sport.
The reason is that energy-providing products are extra high in calories. For sportspeople or those with a very active lifestyle, this shouldn't be a problem, since they burn off those calories in no time. If you munch away on these treats while you're sitting at a desk, however, you may soon find yourself packing on the pounds. A good guideline for those not wanting to put on weight is to choose products that contain less than 230 calories.
Another guideline to look for is the protein content of the product. You need a product that has a high percentage of protein in comparison to carbohydrates. This creates a good balance and protein helps you to feel fuller for longer. A general guideline is to go for a product that contains no less than five grams of protein. Take care, though, that your high-protein snack contains enough fiber and not too much fat.
Fiber is essential in a bar that needs to stave away hunger. It takes a longer time to digest, so it keeps you filled up. It also helps to keep you regular. Try to find a product that has at least three grams of fiber for maximum efficiency.
The fat and sugar content is an important factor to check too. Manufacturers add these for a better-tasting bar. A little of each is not too bad and is in fact better for you. Fat, like fiber and protein, helps to keep you feeling full. Sugar provides energy fast. However, too much fat and sugar can lead to many lifestyle diseases.
You may find that the best way to ensure that you and your loved ones eat healthy snack bars is to make them yourselves. In this way you can control the ingredients that go into them. You just need a basic recipe and then you can vary the taste by substituting one ingredient for another.
The problem is that there is such a variety of products on the market that it is difficult to choose the best option. In addition, not all products that claim that they are healthy are indeed good for you. The secret to making the best choice is to read the product information on the packaging.
First you need to know the difference between a snack bar, which is supposed to keep away hunger pangs, and an energy bar. The latter is designed to provide you with a quick, intense burst of energy. This is great if you're on your way to the gym, on a hike or about to take part in an afternoon of sport.
The reason is that energy-providing products are extra high in calories. For sportspeople or those with a very active lifestyle, this shouldn't be a problem, since they burn off those calories in no time. If you munch away on these treats while you're sitting at a desk, however, you may soon find yourself packing on the pounds. A good guideline for those not wanting to put on weight is to choose products that contain less than 230 calories.
Another guideline to look for is the protein content of the product. You need a product that has a high percentage of protein in comparison to carbohydrates. This creates a good balance and protein helps you to feel fuller for longer. A general guideline is to go for a product that contains no less than five grams of protein. Take care, though, that your high-protein snack contains enough fiber and not too much fat.
Fiber is essential in a bar that needs to stave away hunger. It takes a longer time to digest, so it keeps you filled up. It also helps to keep you regular. Try to find a product that has at least three grams of fiber for maximum efficiency.
The fat and sugar content is an important factor to check too. Manufacturers add these for a better-tasting bar. A little of each is not too bad and is in fact better for you. Fat, like fiber and protein, helps to keep you feeling full. Sugar provides energy fast. However, too much fat and sugar can lead to many lifestyle diseases.
You may find that the best way to ensure that you and your loved ones eat healthy snack bars is to make them yourselves. In this way you can control the ingredients that go into them. You just need a basic recipe and then you can vary the taste by substituting one ingredient for another.
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