Granola & Cereal Bars

Most granola and cereal bars get most of their calories from carbohydrate, though some are a good source of protein and healthy fats as well. Refer to the calorie counter to determine the nutritional value of your favorite granola and cereal bars.

High Fiber Content

Granola and cereal bars are often made from whole-grain oats and nuts, all of which are a great source of dietary fiber. Fiber plays a key role in improving and regulating your digestion – it also helps to prevent constipation. The carbs in granola and cereal bars that provide dietary fiber contribute to regulating your blood sugar levels and keeping you feeling full for longer than sugary snacks. The dietary fiber found in oats also help to reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Sugars and Sweeteners

When eating granola and cereal bars, pay close attention to the calorie calculator – not only will it tell you the content of carbs, protein, and fats, but it will also tell you how much sugar is in the product. Many commercial granola and cereal bars are loaded with sugar which can add to the calorie count and take away from the nutritional value provided by the other ingredients. When possible, choose granola and cereal bars that are sweetened with natural sweeteners like honey or even dates – you may also want to consider those that aren’t sweetened at all.

The health benefits associated with granola and cereal bars vary greatly depending on the ingredients used. For example, granola and cereal bars made from whole grains and nuts are much healthier than those made with processed grains and artificial sweeteners.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Many granola and cereal bars contain nuts and seeds which are a good source of heart-healthy fats. For example, a 1/3-cup serving of granola contains about 4 grams each of monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat. Both of these fats help to reduce cholesterol and lower blood pressure, thereby contributing to overall cardiovascular health. Omega-3 fatty acids, another type of polyunsaturated fat often found in granola and cereal bars, contribute to brain health as well.

Healthy Weight Maintenance

The key to weight loss and healthy weigh maintenance is to watch what and how much you eat. Granola and cereal bars can be a useful tool for those trying to lose weight because they are a healthy snack that keeps you full between meals. When selecting granola and cereal bars for weight loss or weight maintenance, make sure to select a product that provides a good source of protein in addition to vitamins and minerals.