The Ultimate Guide to Organic Energy Bars
How often do you find yourself reaching for a caffeinated drink or sugary snack when you feel depleted, hoping for a quick energy cure? For many of us, the answer is too often—way too often. Unfortunately, this solution is also not sustainable, and before we know it, we’re suffering from an energy crash and seeking out another quick fix.
In addition to a good night’s sleep, a good diet, and regular exercise, organic energy bars may be the solution you’re looking for. Pack them for your big adventures, office snacks, or use them as a convenient meal replacement. However, not all organic snack bars are created equal. Make sure you know how to choose one that is nutritious and will give you lasting energy. Our nutrition blog highlights everything you need to know about organic snack bars.
What to Look For in Organic Energy Bars
The best way to know what you are putting into your body is to make a habit of always reading the labels on your food. You want to see a short and simple list of familiar ingredients. Look for organic nutrition bars made from real food ingredients like nuts, fruit, and dark chocolate. Walk away from anything that contains a long list of ingredients you don’t recognize or can’t pronounce.
— Sweeteners —
Choose organic energy bars that use natural sugars from dried fruit or honey, and avoid corn syrups and other forms of fructose and glucose. Sugar can be disguised under a variety of other names and can also be added using sugar alcohols like xylitol and sorbitol . Keep in mind that although there are health benefits from fruit and honey, like their high antioxidants, they should still be used in moderation.
— Carbohydrates —
If you are eating an organic energy bar as a meal replacement, you may want more carbs than if you are eating one as a snack. In either situation, you will also want to choose carbs that are better for your body. Look for complex carbohydrates like rice or oats and avoid simple carbs from sugars and other sources.
— Protein & Fiber —
An organic snack bar can be used to support a workout or replace a meal, anda higher amount of protein can be helpful. The additional protein can help your muscles recover from exercise and help you feel less hungry. Fiber, on the other hand, does not provide the same benefits after a workout, but will aid digestion and help keep you full when used for a meal or other daytime snack.
— Fat & Calories —
Look for bars with the right level of macronutrients and calories to help support your goals, especially if you will be eating them while sedentary. Snacking at the office is different from fueling up with a high protein or high carbohydrate meal replacement bar during a physically demanding activity like rock climbing or hiking.
Different Kinds of Bars
Energy bars, particularly those made with whole, nutrient-dense ingredients, are a great way to get the vitamins and antioxidants your body needs. Whether you struggle to find healthy and convenient snacks, want a portable meal, or need fuel for an adventure, organic energy bars are a great option.
There are several different types of food bars, each with its own benefits. Our reason for eating any particular bar may depend on the day, our mood, or a long-term goal. Understanding when each kind of bar will be most beneficial will help you choose the one that best fits your needs.
— Protein Bars —
Protein bars are popular among athletes, but can be used for a variety of reasons. This type of bar is commonly used to help build stronger muscles or aid in recovery from a workout. They can also be used as a meal replacement or for weight gain.
— Endurance Bars —
Endurance bars contain more complex carbohydrates like rice and oats, and are designed to provide you with more energy for a longer workout.
— Organic Energy Bars —
This type of bar uses natural, organic ingredients to provide energy. They can be used as a snack or meal replacement and often contain antioxidants and other important nutrients. However, you will still need to check labels and learn to spot a few marketing tricks. For example, “made with organic ingredients” may mean that only one or two ingredients are organic, not all of them.
— Granola Bars —
The term “granola bar” can technically be used to describe any food bar containing oats. However, within the realm of granola bars, there is a lot of diversity. Many are created simply to be convenient and satisfy a snack craving. Opt for organic granola bars that provide you with vitamins and nutrients and don’t use fillers and preservatives.
Marketing Tricks to Watch Out For
We’ve mentioned a few tricks that marketers use to make you think their products are healthier than they are. It’s useful to understand what they’re allowed to say and what certain terms mean when you see them on packaging. Some terminology is heavily regulated—some, not so much.
Can I Eat Energy Bars Every Day?
Take a good look at the food you eat on a daily basis. Is a lot of it processed, packaged, and based around convenience? If so, you need to consider adding in more real, whole foods and laying off the snack bars now and then. However, if you maintain a well-balanced diet, there is no reason why an organic nutrition bar can’t be a regular part of your routine.
Your body needs the nutrients it can only get from real food like fruits and vegetables. Processed items that include vitamins and minerals tend to also include high amounts of sugar. They are also harder for your body to absorb since they are no longer in their natural state.
Choosing a Snack That Fits Your Goals
Consider your goals and the times you are most likely to eat an energy bar, then check the labels to see if the ingredients support your plan. Be intentional with what you put into your body, and choose sustenance that will help you reach the results you’re looking for.
Organic Energy Bars From Kate’s Real Food
At Kate’s Real Food, we create great-tasting bars perfect for all your on-the-go needs. We use only non-GMO, gluten-free, USDA certified organic whole-food ingredients. Plus, you can stock up on your favorite flavor with a 12-count package, or try a variety of flavors with Kate’s Combo Pack .
Check out our most popular organic energy bars today and find your new favorite snack or meal replacement.