Energy bars are convenient, portable, and non-perishable. They also bear a striking resemblance to candy bars. Originally designed as an on-the-go source of energy for runners, sports bars or energy bars have made the leap into the gym bags of millions of athletes. Unfortunately, swimmers have used them as a dietary tool and not the supplement they’re intended to be.

Yes, they do supply energy, but that just means calories. Even chocolate cake could be considered a rich source of energy. A 2 to 3 oz. Bar will give

From 160– 350 calories. And it doesn’t deliver energy any better than any other kind of healthy food. The typical bar gets less than 30 percent of its calories from fat and is filled with vitamins and minerals and even some fiber. But be careful, because some brands rack up 10 grams of fat per bar – only 3 grams fewer than the fat in a Snickers bar.

No, you can’t and shouldn’t live on them. Energy bars are engineered foods formulated for a specific purpose. Their simple sugars like glucose, fructose, and corn syrup give you fast, brief bursts of energy while the glucose polymers and maltodextrins are complex carbohydrates which help sustain your energy.

At the right time and the right place, energy bars are great. High-carb (45 grams or more) bars – like Powerbar are best an hour or so before your swim. They’ll help keep your muscles properly fueled and your blood sugar steady during your workout. They’re also low in fat which means they are easily digested. High-protein bars (13-15) grams like Balance Bars are better for post-workout refueling because they take longer to digest. Occasionally, these bars can be eaten instead of a meal because they contain the same amount of protein as a small meal. Remember, though, sports bars are highly processed and they usually don’t measure up to the nutrition you get from real food. Whatever your preference, you should always chase down your energy bar with 8 to 16 ounces of water.

Absolutely. Swimming on an empty stomach or skipping meals is the worst choice. But you don’t have to look very far to find convenient, tasty foods with the s same nutritional profile as energy bars. A small bowl of Cherrios with a banana and low-fat yogurt is the nutritional equivalent as a Powerbar. Likewise, a small turkey sandwich with lettuce, tomato, equals a Balance Bar. So take it easy on the bars. You’re a real athlete; you deserve real food.