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The best-tasting energy bars!
Robert Notter


Our busy lives sometimes make it challenging to stay healthy. Often we grab foods that are quick, like health or energy bars. But just because the wrapper says "healthy" doesn't mean it necessarily is.

Many energy bars are nothing more than additives, chemicals and processed sugars pressed into a pretty package (like some of the guys you may have dated). With so many bars on the market, it's confusing what to buy. So how can you still eat on the run without putting a bunch of junk into your body?

Fortunately, there are some great choices that will keep you on track with your workout goals. The following are my top five picks. Be sure to stock up on these ahead of time; have them in your bag and at work. You can find them at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's or your local health food store.

1. Greens Plus Energy Bar
These delicious bars are the best, especially the chocolate flavor. They are cold-processed, which means less of the nutrients are destroyed in manufacturing. They contain organic greens and superfoods, essential fatty acids and no processed sugars or oils. You'll have a stream of energy and no sugar crash.

2. Organic Food Bar
Delicious and nutritious, these bars are all organic and full of active ingredients. High in fiber with no refined sugars, they have lots of yummy flavors, like wild blueberry.

3. Country Bar
This whole-food energy bar is packed with organic and raw ingredients. Low in sugar, they're great for a pre-workout snack for sustained energy.

4. Larabar
These bars are completely raw and as close to nature as you can get in a package. There are minimal ingredients, mostly fruit and nuts. They are a great snack to satisfy your sweet tooth while still putting nothing artificial into your body. And the flavors, especially apple pie, are tasty.

5. Clif Bars
Though these are a bit more processed than the other selections, they contain many organic ingredients and are easy to find. They are sold at most convenience stores and grocery stores. So if you can't find the top four, this is a great alternative. They are high in fiber and have natural sweeteners. They'll get you through that boring work meeting when your hunger kicks in.

What are some of your favorites? List them in you comments field below.

Robert Notter is a board-certified health and lifestyle coach. Based in New York City, he works with LGBT clients all over the world in person and by phone. His practice is focused on helping individuals achieve lasting physical, emotional and mental well-being. He completed the professional training program in nutrition and counseling at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where he is now a faculty member. Learn more about his work, including private consultations and monthly tele-seminars, on his website.

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