The Scoop on Nutrition Bars

Whether you’re an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, a soccer mom or just like to stay active. Chances are you have probably packed a nutrition bar with you before, in fact manufactures are counting on it!

What is the appeal for the nutrition bar? Maybe it is the splashy colored package, claims of high protein, weight-loss or a promise of an energy boost, or convenience that makes them so popular.

According to Innova Market Insights the Top 10 Food and Beverage Trends for 2015 reported that,”formal mealtimes are continuing to decline in popularity and growing numbers of foods and drinks are now considered to be snacks. Quick healthy foods are tending to replace traditional meal occasions and more snacks are targeted at specific moments of consumption, with different demand influences at different times of day.” This trend will have serious negative affects on our relationships, both with the food we eat and the people we live with.

The popularity of nutrition bars has been on a steady incline since 2004 and it is estimated by Market Research Analysis that energy bars will have $8.3 Billion in sales for 2016.

The truth is that sometimes it is hard to schedule time to prepare all of our meals and snacks for the day. When you’re on the go and looking for a quick, healthy snack, a nutrition bar can be a great choice if you know what to look for.

Breaking down the ingredients of a good nutrition bar.

Protein is the building material for muscles, ligaments, tendons, blood, skin, hair, nails, teeth and all your internal organs. Protein moves vitamins, minerals, fat and other essential nutrients to all the cells of the body.

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy, especially the brain, nervous system and muscle exertion. Carbohydrates include: starchy vegetables, fruit (fresh or dried), legumes, whole grains, fruit & vegetable juices, raw honey and maple syrup.

Fiber helps with weight management, blood sugar regulation, and the health of the cardiovascular & digestive system. Eating fiber along with healthy fats helps you feel full and satisfied.

Fats found in whole real food like nuts and seeds are essential. Fat is responsible for supporting hormone function, energy, normal cell function and slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates.

Whole Food Ingredients are far better ingredients. Look for bars that contain nuts, seeds, unsweetened dried fruit. Avoid bars with added processed sugars, refined grains and vitamins and minerals in the isolated forms. Whole foods ingredients offer synergy and are more digestible and usable by the body.

With a little bit of planning and scheduling time to be in the kitchen you can prepare nutrition bars to keep on hand. These are great for a grab-and-go breakfast, post workout fuel, after school snack or take them in the car for a long day of running errands.

Scratch Bars

Seed Lover Bites

Nutty Bars