How to Choose a Healthy Energy or Muesli Bar

Energy and muesli bars are popular snack options for people on the go, offering a quick energy boost and a convenient way to manage hunger. While some view muesli bars as a healthier alternative to other packaged foods, others enjoy them for their taste. However, it's important to note that not all muesli bars are created equal regarding nutritional content.

Read more to learn how to choose a healthier muesli bar. Energy or muesli bars are convenient when you need a snack on the go to boost energy and manage hunger. Some people see muesli bars as a healthier alternative to other packaged foods typically consumed for the taste.

The nutritional content of muesli bars can vary based on the ingredients. Some muesli bars may have higher sugar, fat, and calorie content, so check the nutrition labels to choose bars that match your dietary preferences and needs.

Evaluate ingredients when choosing a muesli bar

Muesli bars can be a convenient way to enjoy a nutritious snack on the go if you know what to look for to choose healthier muesli/energy bars. With wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, muesli bars offer many benefits, including convenience, nutritional value, and energy-boosting properties.

Reading nutrition labels will help you find what's best for you. Look for the following ingredients:

1. Sugar content

Most energy/muesli bars contain added sugar, displayed under the name of fruit juice concentrates, brown sugar, high fructose corn syrup, maple syrup, agave nectar, honey, molasses, sugar alcohols, and so on. It's essential to be aware of the various types of added sugars that can be present in muesli bars.

Some muesli bars contain sugar from natural ingredients such as dried fruits. However, they often include some added sugars.

Choose the bars that have the lowest added sugar content. For example, no added sugar can be a good alternative, or you can choose those with less than five grams of added sugar per 100 g of muesli bar.

Carbohydrates provide energy. That's why they're the main ingredient of energy/muesli bars. Choosing the right carbohydrates is essential for regulating blood glucose and fiber intake.

Simple carbohydrates (added sugars) have little or no nutrients, while complex carbohydrates are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Complex carbohydrates used in energy bars are whole grains such as oats, wheat, barley, rye, quinoa and nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.

You can simply check fiber content too. Fiber helps reduce the risk of diabetes, heart, and gastrointestinal diseases. That's why high-fiber muesli can be a better choice unless you eat before exercise.

3. Protein content

Bars' protein content generally varies between 3 to 6 grams per serving. Some protein-focused muesli bars have high protein ranging from 10 to 20 grams or more per serving.

These bars are designed to provide an additional protein boost. High-protein muesli bars can be a better option if you're trying to increase your protein intake.

4. Fat content

Muesli bars may contain fats to provide flavor, texture, and satiety. These can include healthy fats like nuts, seeds, or nut butter, which contribute to the nutritional value of the bar. Other bars may contain added oils or fats for moisture or taste.

Not all fats are equal. Saturated and trans fat, commonly found in packaged foods, are unhealthy fats that can increase cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease when consumed beyond the limits.

Hydrogenated oils are common in energy/muesli bars. Trans fatty acids occur in the process of hydrogenation of oils. It's healthier to choose products low in saturated and trans fats.

Saturated fats include palm oil and coconut oil too. Homemade bars made with olive oil can be a good option.

Here are the numbers you should be looking at. A product that contains more than 5 g of saturated fat per 100 g is considered high in saturated fats. Also, adults limit their trans fat intake to 5 g daily, preferably as low as possible.

5. Salt content

Salt is often used in small amounts to enhance the flavor of muesli bars. While up to 6 g of salt a day, equivalent to 2.4 g sodium, is generally acceptable for most individuals. It's worth checking salt content if you have specific dietary restrictions or are closely monitoring your sodium intake.

Muesli bars are considered low in salt if they contain less than 0.3 g of salt (equivalent to 100 mg of sodium) per 100 g. Avoid bars that have more than 1.5 g of salt per 100 g.

6. Allergens

If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, check the label for any potential allergens like nuts, gluten, dairy, or soy. For example, if you have gluten intolerance, you can choose muesli bars that contain gluten-free whole grains such as millet, amaranth, and quinoa.

7. Additives and preservatives

Some muesli bars may contain preservatives and additives to extend their shelf life, maintain freshness, and improve the texture, consistency, and taste. You can choose bars without artificial additives and preservatives.

Another great option is to make your muesli bars at home. Homemade muesli bars are ideal for those seeking a healthier snack option. By creating these bars in your kitchen, you can carefully select wholesome ingredients, tailor the recipe to your taste preferences, and accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies.

Additionally, homemade muesli bars allow for portion control, cost-effectiveness, and the opportunity to enjoy freshness and superior taste.

In conclusion, choosing a healthy energy or muesli bar requires careful consideration of sugar content, complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. By being mindful of these elements and reading nutrition labels, you can make informed choices that match your dietary preferences and needs.