Granola and energy bars
Granola and energy bars are popular snack choices among cyclists due to their convenience, portability, and nutrient-dense properties. They provide a quick source of energy and can be easily carried during rides.
Granola is a breakfast food consisting of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, often baked with sweeteners like honey or brown sugar.
Energy bars are compact, nutrient-dense snacks designed to provide a quick source of energy. They typically contain a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
List of granola and energy bars:
- Homemade granola
- Store-bought granola (e.g., Nature Valley, Bear Naked)
- Clif Bars
- KIND Bars
- Larabars
- PowerBar
- RxBars
- Honey Stinger Bars
- Skratch Labs Anytime Energy Bars
- Probar
- Gu Energy Stroopwafel
- Bonk Breaker Bars
- Picky Bars
- Hammer Bars
Benefits for the cyclist:
- Convenient and portable snack option for rides
- Provide a quick source of carbohydrates for energy
- Often contain a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
- Can include beneficial ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
- Some bars are fortified with vitamins and minerals
Energy value:
The calorie content of granola and energy bars varies depending on the brand and ingredients. On average, a 1/2 cup (60g) serving of granola or a single energy bar (40-50g) provides about 200-250 kcal.
When to eat:
- Before the ride: Consuming granola or an energy bar 30-60 minutes before a ride can provide sustained energy.
- During the ride: Energy bars can be eaten during longer rides as a convenient source of carbohydrates and energy.
- After the ride: Including granola or an energy bar as part of a recovery snack or meal within an hour after a ride can help replenish energy stores and provide essential nutrients.
Other tips:
- Choose granola and energy bars with whole-food ingredients and minimal added sugars.
- Check the labels for allergens like nuts or gluten if you have sensitivities.
- Experiment with different brands and flavors to find options that work well for you.
- Consider making your own granola or energy bars to control the ingredients and nutritional content.
- Remember that whole foods should still form the foundation of a cyclist's diet, with granola and energy bars used as convenient supplements.
Granola and energy bars can be a useful addition to a cyclist's snack repertoire, providing a convenient and energy-dense option for rides and recovery. By selecting high-quality options, timing their intake appropriately, and using them as part of a balanced diet, cyclists can benefit from the quick energy and nutrient boost offered by these snacks.
