Exercise is Medicine by ACSM

BLOG 108 NUTRITION BARS

July 2, 2017 / Uncategorized

BLOG 108 NUTRITION BARS

Bars are a snack we can utilize on our fitness journeys to keep us fueled until the next meal. They are convenient, ready to go, and an easy “to take with” item we can use as a better choice. There are a number of nutrition bars on the market and knowing which one to grab can be confusing. The three main types I see in client’s fitness journals are Luna Bars, Quest Bars, and Cliff Bars. So let’s compare and contrast and get ourselves educated about these popular selections.

Luna Bars (CLICK FOR IMAGE)

https://www.google.com/search?q=luna+bar+nutrition+facts&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwig7Z-wjfDSAhUF2SYKHanDB4cQ_AUICCgB&biw=1366&bih=628#imgrc=8dbtuYtGL6e5jM:

Pros:                                                                       Cons:

Calorie count                                                        High in Carbohydrates

Low in fat                                                             High in Sugar

Cons:                                                                    Low in Protein

High in Carbohydrates                                         Low in Fiber

Lower in Sodium

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Quest Bars

https://www.google.com/search?q=quest+bars+nutrition&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjYmsOmjPDSAhUGJiYKHRnqAVcQ_AUICSgC&biw=1366&bih=628#imgrc=W-iWY6vMv0rYDM:

Pros:                                                                                       Cons:

High in Protein                                                                     Higher in Sodium

Low in Carbohydrates

High in Fiber (what makes low carbohydrate)

Low in Sugar

Lower in Fat

Clif Bars

https://www.google.com/search?q=clif+bars+nutrition+facts&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjktfPxjPDSAhWSdSYKHU6pCN4Q_AUICSgC&biw=1366&bih=628#imgdii=KQVpixZr3quJTM:&imgrc=PJ2tCtEGdvQ3ZM:

Pros:                                       Cons:

Low in Sodium                      High in Calories

Lower in Fat                               Low in Protein

High in Carbs

Low in Fiber

Most clients know I’m a cheerleader for Quest Bars, and now maybe some folks might see why. Taste and flavor does come into play, but know that nutrients are what count in the end. Use bars for those 3 hour in between snacks to reach the next meal. Don’t go for the crackers, chips and candy. Give your BODY what it needs. Do the comparison when in doubt and I’m here to help as well.