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Monday, January 7, 2008
Nutrition Bars - Are They Good For You?
How would you like a boost of energy replete with 10 grams of protein couched in a chewy, brownie-flavored whole-grain bar? Or one flavored like an oatmeal-raisin cookie? If you're tempted, you're not alone. The problem with these bars is that there's nothing magical about these bars. They're no better than a banana or other food with an equal amount of carbohydrates.
In the United States alone, sports and energy-bar sales rocketed from some $200 million in 1997 to more than $1 billion in 2003, according to studies. Taste and appeal have improved dramatically since the bars first hit the market, as has their distribution. Once sold almost exclusively in health-food stores, the bars are now available in most supermarkets and convenience stores.
These energy-bar industry has evolved in other ways as well. Good-tasting, high-carbohydrate, low-fat energy bars like the orignals that first came out were developed to provide athletes with carbohydrates on the go. Now all sorts are available: high-protein bars, so-called meal replacement bars, even bars packed with supplements. But the purpose of these bars, isn't to boost energy.
Aside from convenience, energy bars are appealing because they're relatively low in hydrogenated and saturated fats, and often have as much as 5 grams of fiber. But it's best to eat plain old whole foods such as fruits and vegetables. A plum or a peanut-butter sandwich not only costs less, but brims with beneficial phytochemicals that no food scientist can replicate.
Posted by HoodiaPharm HungerAway ::
6:29 AM ::
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