Eating A Breakfast Bar
A breakfast bar might seem like a good idea, especially if you are on-the-go, but it can actually lead to some problems if you are trying to lose weight.
Speaking to Shape, Dr. Lisa Davis, Vice President of Scientific and Clinical Affairs at Medifast, explains, "Most commercial granola bars are basically oatmeal cookies in disguise, with a lot more sugar than you need."
According to the Daily Meal, another problem with breakfast bars is how they are marketed--they won't fill you up as much as a full breakfast.
"There’s not nearly enough nutrition to hold you over for more than an hour. Typical 'breakfast' bars have less nutritional value than most snack bars. Both kinds of bars clock in at around 200 calories — the average size nutritionists recommend for a snack."
Plus, according to WebMd, the sugar in these breakfast bars can lead to noticeable weight gain: "One study even found that people who increased their sugar intake gained about 1.7 pounds in less than 2 months."
"Excess amounts of sugar can inflame fat cells causing them to release chemicals that increase weight," the article continues.
If you're looking for alternatives, Davis has a suggestion.
She explains, "A little natural peanut butter on a folded slice of whole-grain bread is better. Make a couple of these mini sandwiches in advance and keep one in your fridge at home, and one at work."