If a “nutrition” bar used to taste like chalk, it was probably good for you. Packed full of nutrients, but void of flavour. Only the hardiest of exercisers would dare eat a bar in the “old days”.

How times change - even Marrs and Snicker bars are now marketed as “energy boosters”. The market is flooded with bars proclaiming they’re the best for something or other - how do you choose what’s best for you? Learn to read the label keep the following tips in mind:

Always try to choose a bar that has fewer than 5 grams of total fat and 0 trans fats. (Remember that 1 gm. of fat is 9 calories of energy.)

Look for bars that have some fibre – aim for 3 - 5 grams of fibre per bar. However, if you’re eating a bar before a workout for energy, you might want to choose one that is low in fibre so that you can avoid any gastrointestinal discomfort (The higher the fibre content the more digestion your body has to do.)

For pre-workout bars, look for quick-to-digest offerings. Keep the fat and protein low, as these nutrients take longer to digest and might also cause some stomach discomfort if you are really exerting yourself. (For long/hard cardio workouts look for bars with 20+ grams of carbohydrates, less than 3-4 grams of fat and less than 6-8 grams of protein.

If you’re eating a bar as a meal replacement (not recommended for long-term eating habits - but once in a while is okay) look for a bar with 10-15 grams of protein, some fibre, and possibly one that’s even fortified with about 35% of the RDAs for vitamins and minerals.

If you want to limit calories, READ THE LABEL before you buy. Lower carb bars may help you feel full longer, but the higher proportion of protein and fat in most of these offerings might be more energy (calories) than you are bargaining for.

Skip bars with gimmicky herbal additives that claim to provide energy or brain power! These unregulated ingredients are generally ineffective and in some cases, potentially harmful.

For added nutrition, eat some REAL food along with the bar. Try some baby carrots or a piece of fruit to boost fibre and vitamins. Or add a handful of nuts for their protein and minerals.