The meal replacement bar is one of the most popular alternatives to weight control. However, despite its popularity, there are still many doubts about them. We will help you to clarify, because if they allow weight loss by providing all the nutrients, it is true that you can replace all the meals by bars. The truth is that you cannot take the bars too long, but rather sporadically.
Today there are many meal replacement products such as smoothies, soups or creams. But the truth is that, due to their small size, which can be carried anywhere, and do not require any preparation, the bars are most widely used.
They provide very few calories, yet contain a lot of macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids ...) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals ...). In fact, it is a requirement by law that the bar should contribute a minimum of 30% of the daily nutrients recommended by the WHO (World Health Organization).
They are therefore able to replace any main meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner). However, it is much more advisable to replace one meal with the bar with the rest of the meals following a healthy and balanced diet. If we were to replace all meals with the bar for an extended period of time, we will end up with some nutritional deficiencies. This drastic form of use is only recommended for up to 3 days.
The main purpose of these bars is to replace meals which are time consuming to make. Moreover, taking the habit of replacing them with 2 or 3 meals a week really helps maintain weight.
It is best to take in small bites and drink water with every two or three bites. This will give us a feeling of satiety which we would feel with any other normal food, because despite the bar being very low in calories, it contains fibre that expands in the stomach.
Although the law is clear that manufacturers are required to meet a minimum nutritional value for these bars, not all the brands met. So, when buying, look carefully at the labeling, and check that the bar has at least 15 or 20 grams of protein per meal and at least 10 grams of fats.
In addition, consuming these products the right way is an effective and safe method to reduce weight.