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Which meal replacement bars are best?
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but lunch and dinner are not far behind. Unfortunately, many of us do not have the time or opportunity to prepare or purchase traditional meals three times a day. This is why many people turn to meal replacement bars.
If you are looking for a healthy and delicious meal replacement bar, the Probar Meal Bar is the best pick. It’s a nutrient-packed product compatible with most diet plans and features various flavor combinations.
Considerations when choosing meal replacement bars
Nutritional value
One common criticism of meal replacement bars is that they are closer to candy bars than healthy meal alternatives. There are a few products that are promoted as meal replacement bars that do contain high levels of fats, sugar, and complex carbohydrates. The best way to tell the difference is to consult the nutritional label on the individual bar or box.
Healthy meal replacement bars should contain less than 5 grams each of both fats and sugar. The total net carb count should be fewer than 10 grams. Fiber is an important component, so look for 3 to 5 grams per serving. Plant or animal-based protein will satisfy cravings for hours, so there should be 10 to 15 grams per bar. The total calorie count should range between 200 and 300 per serving.
Protein sources
While many meal replacement bars are considered vegan-friendly, there are some that use animal-based products as their protein source. Egg whites, whey and calcium caseinate may be present in meal replacement bars. Consumers with egg or dairy allergies or who are on vegan diet plans should read the ingredient list carefully.
Plant-based proteins are also common sources of protein in meal replacement bars. Yellow peas produce a complete protein that is rich in iron and are also considered heart-healthy. Nuts and seeds, such as peanuts, almonds or sunflower seeds, also provide variable levels of protein. Consumers with known tree-nut allergies should search for alternative products, however.
Other sources of protein include brown rice, which is especially recommended for consumers who are lactose intolerant. Some brands sold in health stores use a form of algae called spirulina as their protein base. Spirulina is promoted as rich in vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients.
Flavor profiles
Many meal replacement bar formulas are on the sweeter side of the flavor spectrum, not the savory. Common ingredients include chocolate, marshmallow, peanut butter and corn syrup. These ingredients, along with dried fruits, nuts and yogurt, are often combined to create appealing flavor profiles.
A chocolate and marshmallow combination on a graham cracker base, for example, resembles the popular trail snack called s’mores. Some bars may be packed with dried fruits and nuts. Others use natural flavorings such as vanilla or lemon extract to create consumer appeal. Regardless of the flavor profile, the total sugar count should be less than 5 grams.
Healthier content
Many dieters seek out healthier products promoted as “organic,” “whole grain” or “non-GMO,” and meal replacement bars are no exception. The term “organic” itself can refer to a wide range of natural ingredients, some of which are not any healthier than their processed counterparts. A better search term would be “100% organic,” or “certified organic.”
Non-GMO ingredients have not been genetically modified by producers. While flour may start out as a whole grain, it is often refined by mills and loses some of its nutritional value. Whole grains such as oats, quinoa, buckwheat and brown rice are all considered healthier ingredients in a meal replacement bar.
Meal replacement bars price
The least-expensive meal replacement bars can be found on store shelves for less than $1 each, but their nutritional value and flavor profile can be variable. The midrange products often sold in multi-packs should average between $1 and $2.50 per bar. Premium meal replacement bars, often promoted as part of a larger diet plan, can easily cost $2.50 or more per bar.
Meal replacement bars FAQ
Q. Are meal replacement bars vegan-friendly?
A. There are some meal replacement bars promoted as vegan or non-GMO or keto-friendly, but it pays to read the list of ingredients. Some brands may include glycerin, an ingredient sometimes derived from animals. Others can have meat-based proteins or at least those sourced from eggs or dairy.
Q. Is a meal replacement bar the same as a protein bar?
A. In most cases, no. A protein bar is formulated to boost muscle-building proteins, often as part of a workout program. A meal replacement bar contains a balance of protein, fats, fiber, and vitamins that matches the nutritional value of a complete meal.
Meal replacement bars we recommend
Top meal replacement bar
What you need to know: For those who seek a nutritious plant-based meal replacement bar with only 360 calories, this non-GMO product is worth considering.
What you’ll love: This bar is made of nonsoy plant-based protein sources. There is a good variety of flavors, and it contains 70% natural/organic content. The ingredients include super fruits and fiber-rich greens.
What you should consider: It’s a bit expensive and contains a wheat derivative, so it’s not entirely gluten-free.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Top meal replacement bar for the money
ZonePerfect Classic Protein Bar
What you need to know: This bargain-priced bar is packed with protein and vitamins, with a texture that should appeal to both children and adults.
What you’ll love: It contains no artificial sweeteners but is still low-calorie. It has a decadent chocolate and marshmallow flavor profile.
What you should consider: The calorie count (240) is surprisingly low and may not satisfy hunger. The flavor selection is also a bit limited.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Worth checking out
What you need to know: While not ideal as lunch or dinner replacements, these grain-heavy breakfast bars pack a lot of flavor in a smaller serving size.
What you’ll love: These bars have 200 calories each, so they’re easy for dieters. They also come in a wide variety of flavor profiles. They’re gluten-free but have a high grain content.
What you should consider: The protein content is minimal. It’s better as a between-meal snack.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Michael Pollick writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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