Energy Bars (3 Ingredient Recipe) (2024)

FAQs

What are three foods that should be in energy bars? ›

Real food ingredients: Nuts, seeds, dried fruit, oats, quinoa, millet, chia, dark chocolate, and natural cocoa.

A typical energy bar weighs between 30 and 50 g and is likely to supply about 200–300 Cal (840–1,300 kJ), 3–9 g of fat, 7–15 g of protein, and 20–40 g of carbohydrates — the three sources of energy in food.

Your body stores carbohydrate energy as glycogen within your muscles which depletes during exercise. When you eat an energy bar the carbohydrates, including sugars, in that bar top up your body's fuel and give your body an energy boost to keep you going stronger for longer.

The fewer ingredients on the label, the better. The more additives you see — particularly excess sugar alcohols (sorbitol, xylitol), which can cause gastric distress — the less likely the bar is to deserve the “healthy” moniker. Palm oils, soy protein isolate and so-called natural flavors are also red flags.

While protein bars can be enjoyed regularly, consuming them as meal replacements or as your primary protein source isn't recommended. Pay close attention to nutrition labels, as many protein bars contain added sugars, saturated fats and other low-nutrient ingredients.

Read the Ingredients: Look for energy bars with natural and wholesome ingredients. Avoid bars with high levels of added sugars or artificial ingredients. Nutritional Balance: Choose bars that offer a good balance of macronutrients like protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Honey – Along with the nut butter, it helps all these ingredients stick together! I love its warm amber flavor in this recipe. Vanilla extract – It amps up the bars' warm flavor.

Energy bars can be a wise choice for a snack or mini meal if they offer a healthy dose of protein and fiber, and are low in sugars and saturated fat. But when they contain chocolate coatings or sugary syrups, they can pass for protein-fortified candy bars.

Energy bars often contain a higher carbohydrate content, making them an ideal choice for quick energy before a workout or a long cycling trip. Protein bars, however, have higher protein content, making them a better choice for post-workout recovery as protein assists in muscle repair and growth.

Moreover, the inclusion of added sugars or artificial sweeteners can disrupt blood sugar levels, contribute to sugar cravings, and negatively impact gut health. Furthermore, digestive issues may arise from consuming protein bars regularly, particularly due to the high fibre content or the presence of sugar alcohol.

Do energy bars really work? ›

Do energy bars really work? Whether energy bars work to boost your performance entirely depends on why you're eating them, when you eat them and what ingredients are used. For athletes looking for carbohydrates to power their physical activity then yes, absolutely!

Since energy bars are the source of additional energy but can not replace fresh vegetables, fruits, milk, and a normal regular diet. It can be taken as a snack during the day. Although it is much better to consume energy bars rather than any fast food or unhealthy snacks. But keep it a part of the meal, not the meal.

Yes, you read that right! Protein bars can even make a good night-time treat. Opt for a protein bar that is lower in sugar. This can help provide your muscles with a steady supply of amino acids throughout the night, promoting muscle growth and recovery while you catch those Zzzs.