Question:
Does this bar sound okay, nutrition wise?

Hi group. I just bought some protein bars at our local health food store and I need a little help finding out if it's a good choice. The bar is called Think Thin! Low Carb Diet. It is a 2.1 oz bar 250 calories total fat 10 grams (saturated fat 4.5) total carbs,22 grams NET CARBS 2 (??) sugar 0 protein 20 grams What does net carb mean? I know this is a lot of calories but it's a large bar and would be split into 2 servings. Thanks guy's, just so much fun stuff to learn about.    — Maggie M. (posted on June 23, 2003)

June 22, 2003
It sounds like a very good nutritional bar to me. I have not had surgery yet, but am preparing for it. I am planning on following the Atkins' diet afer surgery which is a high protein/low carb diet which is basically what I understand that we need to follow. In the Atkins' diet, the only carbs that you need to concern yourself with are the net carbs. Net carbs are figured out by subtracting grams of fiber glycerine, and sugar alcohols from total grams of carbohydrates. The reason is that fiber, glycerine, and sugar alcohols have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. The idea behind the Atkins diet is simple...switching your body from a glucose metabolism to a mostly fat metabolism. With a fat metabolism, you burn your body fat for energy instead of storing it. Hence, weight reduction is accomplished. Not only are the net carbs in the bar you mentioned only 2, but even more importantly, the protein is great at 20 with no sugar. I would say, you made a very good choice.
   — Checker B.

June 22, 2003
Net carbs are supposedly those carbs that don't impact your blood sugar level and, therefore, shouldn't inspire you to consume more carbs; also, "net carbs" are the only ones that supposedly count when you are counting carbs. I tend to count only "net carbs", although it is only an issue for me when I have protein bars (usually one or two a day). Also, I don't consider fat grams as I don't have a cholesteral problem and as I simply limit carb intake (a lifetime Atkins plan). The most important issue to consider is that, given how little you can consume in the months following surgery, you maintain 40-60 grams of protein a day. This can be tough without supplements (like Real Meals or protein drinks). Good luck.
   — SteveColarossi

June 22, 2003
Just 20 grams of protein and 250 calaries! Ouch. To much money, for way to many calaries for just a few of protein. Personaly I would'nt, but to each his own. I never got protein drinks or bars. I snacked on deli meat (or sliced packaged meats) and cheeses. My protein levels were 8.2! My surgeon was very happy with it. I understand that these bars could come in handy in a purse or car for emergencies. My choice for these is Walmarts Jack Link Beef Jerky. It's high protein (low or no carbs), fairly cheap and tastes great. The bars are too expensive and high in calaries, and sometimes sugar and fat. (Although personally I don't count any fat grams). For bars, I believe there may be better choices out there.
   — Danmark

June 23, 2003
I also saw the bars this weekend. What bothers me about the label, is that the FDA requires that they label things as they really are, so, why "declare" 22 grams only to write an explanation next to it saying - well, it's not really 22 grams. I agree with another "poster" there are far better protein bar choices out there, with lower calories and lower price. Have a good day,
   — M B.

June 23, 2003
Net carbs... lol... it is just a way to make people think they aren't getting as many carbs when they actually are. ANY carb, net or not, is a carb that doesn't need to go into your body. I don't like companies that do this, and don't support them by buying their products. The choice is yours, but those fat grams scare me, too. There are better bars out there... try a Detour bar or a U-Turn. Read my profile for better alternatives than protien bars, too. Hugs!
   — Sharon M. B.

June 23, 2003
Yes, it is better to try to get your protein in via actual food. BUT... that just doesn't happen all the time. Some people go through the rest of their lives with supplements and some never have to use them, it's just how it is. As for Detour being a 'better' bar, the label on that should be checked again. Personally, I love them but the nutrition facts are: 310 calories (90 from fat) 10 gr fat (4gr saturated) 25 gr carbs 12 gr sugar 30 gr protein The only actually 'better' is that it has more protein. The protein issue is hit-or-miss especially post-op. Good luck!
   — Diane S.