Many of us eat energy bars, protein bars or the like, I found this short article at eVitamins and though I would throw it in. The mighty energy bar is a great thing to eat and makes a really good meal replacement.
Energy bars are fortified foods containing a blend of protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
The primary source of protein in energy bars is usually soy or milk, with fiber provided from grains, oats, apple pectin, or other sources.
Some bars also contain additional herbs or nutrients thought to enhance energy, promote loss, or increase endurance.
Energy bars can be consumed before, during, and after athletic events to ensure sufficient energy and replace expended nutrients.
They may also be used as a snack or meal replacement.
Varieties of Energy Bars
Energy bars come in a wide variety of flavors and textures. They may be high in protein, high in carbohydrates, low in fat, or contain a balanced ratio of these nutrients.
They may have a taffy-like texture, or may be baked for a cookie-like consistency. Many are coated with chocolate, carob, vanilla yogurt, or other flavors.
Natural energy bars with natural sugars, flavors, and colors are also available.
Buying and storing tips
Look for energy bars in the snack foods or supplement section of health food stores, or in the specialty foods section of most supermarkets. Store energy bars in a cool, dark location for 6 to 12 months.
Of course being a perishable product you need to follow the labels and the expiry date for the energy meal replacement bar.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Combine natural energy bars and a handful of grapes or cherries for a fast breakfast or healthful mid-day snack. Energy bars are easy to transport, so if youre going for a long bike ride or hike, pack some energy bars to satisfy your snack attacks.
Energy Bars and Hunger Study Results
There was a study a couple of years ago that compared the value of eating energy bars compared to drinking a meal replacement for breakfast. Apparently these bars will help you avoid getting hungry quicker.
Hunger ratings and desire to eat remained significantly below baseline for 5 hours following consumption. Stomach fullness scores were significantly above baseline for 5 hours.
Thirst scores were significantly below baseline for 3 hours. In conclusion, although the meal replacement diet bars contained only 30 additional calories than liquids, they provided an additional 2 hours of hunger suppression from baseline that may have an impact on overall loss success.
These results support superior short-term hunger control with solid meal replacements.