How to Choose a Healthy Breakfast Bar

When you don't have time to cook a meal, breakfast bars are the ultimate in convenience. You can snack on one while riding to work or use one for a quick office breakfast.

Unfortunately, breakfast bars are not always the healthiest alternative. Some so called healthy breakfast bars are no more healthy or nutritious than the decadent glazed donuts from your local Krispy Kreme.

If you need the convenience of on the run eating and enjoy the taste of a good breakfast bar, it pays to do your homework to avoid blowing your eating plan. Here's how to choose a healthy breakfast bar.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Don't be Fooled by the Pretty Pictures on the Wrapper
   
   The manufacturers of not so healthy breakfast bars have their advertising down to a science. The wrappers of high calorie breakfast bars are almost always printed with healthy images and described as healthy and wholesome. Look past the sleek advertising and read the label before making your decision to purchase.

2. Avoid Trans Fats
   
   Although many manufacturers of breakfast bars are removing trans fats from their breakfast bars, check the label to be sure the bar you choose is trans fat free. Remember a company can list a product as having zero grams of trans fat even when it has up to 0.5 grams per serving. Scan the list of ingredients. If you see partially hydrogenated oils or shortening listed, choose another breakfast bar. Even a small amount of trans fat isn't worth the risk to your heart and if you eat a breakfast bar every day those small amounts can add up.

3. Limit the Sugar
   
   Breakfast bars are often deceptively full of sugar. Look for bars that have six grams of sugar per serving or less. Consider buying a sugar free breakfast bar and adding sweetness by eating it with yogurt or fresh fruit. Keep in mind that some breakfast bars are loaded with sugar and are as unhealthy as the average candy bar.

4. Select Whole Grains
   
   Look for healthy breakfast bars with whole grains listed as one of the first ingredients. They should include such ingredients as rolled oats, wheat, or barley. One clue that a bar is higher in whole grains is the fiber count listed on the label. Look for bars that have a fiber content of at least four grams per serving.

5. Look for Protein
   
   Breakfast bars that have at least five grams of protein are more likely to satiate your hunger and keep you full until lunchtime. Protein tends to be digested more slowly which means you'll have fewer morning cravings. If the breakfast bar you've chosen is low in protein, try eating it with a few nuts to boost your protein intake.

6. Make Your Own
   
   If you can't find a breakfast bar that meets your criteria, consider making your own at home. Creating your own bars can be quick and easy. Just do a Google search for healthy breakfast bar recipes and you'll find lots of options.