Finding the Right Snack Bars
Yesterday, Dana talked about how to pick the right energy bars. On the flip side, there are snack bars to choose from, too. Here are some of our favorites.
Snack Bars vs. Energy Bars
Unlike energy bars, snack bars are meant for between meals. Energy bars tend to be higher in calories and are meant to give more active individuals extra calories and energy — too much for just a snack.
Many snack bars are made with granola mixes — that is, a combo of oats, nuts, seeds and dried fruit and small amounts of sugar and fat. Some packaged granola bars also add in chocolate, fudge and pieces of candy (most of those wouldn’t make our approval list). Dozens of granola and fruit bars are available these days and some are better than others (see our faves below).
Remember, these shouldn’t be your go-to snack all the time. Non-fat yogurt, fruit or a handful of nuts are also easy and portable alternatives. It’s important to rotate your snacks — and all foods, really — to get a variety of nutrients.
What to Look For
If you’re looking to lose weight, choose a bar with less than 150 calories. If you’re just looking to maintain, then go for one with 200 calories or less. There are a few of my favorites (ones marked with an * are a good choice for those trying to lose weight):
- Barbara’s Crunchy Organic Granola Bars — 190 to 200 calories per pack of two bars
- Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars — 190 calories per pack of two bars
- Nature Valley Chewy Trail Mix Bars* — around 140 each
- Kashi Bars TLC Chewy Granola Bars* — around 110 to 140 each
- Larabar Fruit & Nut Bars — look for those between 180 to 200 calories
- Larabar Jocolat — any flavor, between 180 to 190 calories each
Make Your Own
Of course, creating your own low-cal snack bars is often better. You get to pick your ingredients and flavor combos — plus, less packaging waste.
- Recipes to try:
- Fruit and Pecan Granola Bars
- Nutty Granola
- Walnuts and Dried Cherry Bars
[Photo: Tom Censani]
My favorite are the kashi bars; they make a pumpkin pie bar that is simply divine. I also love their soft baked bars which are akin to a healthier and more delicious fig newton.
This is great i can imagine the taste
I bought some of Kashi’s new pumpkin bars last week. I wasn’t a huge fan of the topping, but do enjoy their chewy granola bars for an occasional snack.
I like Fiber One oats and chocolate–140 calories and 9 grams of fiber.
Found a snack bar I ADORE — the Pure Bar, created by a mom in Michigan! 100% Organic, Raw, Vegan, 1 1/2 servings of fruit, and TOTALLY delicious! Comes in 6 flavors — my favs are Cherry Cashew and Wild Blueberry. website is http://www.thepurebar.com
I love the Kashi pumpkin pie bars too. Special K just put out a 90 calorie pretzels & chocolate bar, not a go to all the time but nice when u need that sweet/salty mix. I also love the Fiber One bars. High fiber, low fat, lower cal.
This looks REALLY good.
"ThinkThin" white chocolate chip is really good bar too. Created by a working mom trying to manage weight. 20 g protein, 17 minerals and vitamins. Organic, sugar-free, also made from wheat and gluten free. Great choice for people with Celiac Disease and Diabetes.
Get it @ Whole Foods.
Four words: High Fructose Corn Syrup