Snack Bars That Are Low in Carbs and High in Fiber

by David Coodin, Demand Media
Some grains are high in fiber and contain healthy carbohydrates.

Some grains are high in fiber and contain healthy carbohydrates.

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Snack bars may help to keep your kids healthy and energetic throughout the day. While there are many commercial snack bars that are high in fiber, making your own ensures that they contain the ingredients you want for your kids. Fiber is healthy for the digestive tract and can help to prevent heart disease. While certain diets make it trendy to consume lower amounts of carbohydrates, your kids need carbs to get their energy throughout the day. Instead of cutting out carbs entirely, choose healthy carbohydrates to add to fruit bars to ensure that your kids get the health benefits they need.

Remix with Ranch

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Whole Grains

Whole grains are relatively low in carbs, and the carbs that they do contain are healthy and unrefined. They are also relatively high in fiber. Use quinoa or oatmeal in your snack bars to increase fiber and health for your kids. Either way, whole grains are a healthy alternative to packaged cereals or other refined grains.

Add Fruit

Dried fruit packs a snack bar with fiber without adding unhealthy carbohydrates. Raspberries, pears and apples are highest in fiber. If you don't have dried versions of these lying around, simply cut them up yourself. Leave the skin on for extra fiber. Raisins and dried figs are another quick and easy way to add fiber to a snack bar without raising carb levels too much. Apricots are lower in fiber but also very low in carbohydrates, and can be added easily to any snack bar recipe.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts add a fiber-filled crunch that your kids will love. Highest in fiber are almonds, pistachios and pecans. Chop them up and add them to the mix for health and taste. Roast the nuts in the oven beforehand for extra flavor. Pistachios and cashews are lowest in carbs. Sunflower or flax seeds are another way to add fiber without unhealthy carbohydrates.

Other Ways to Get Fiber and Healthy Carbs

Beans are one of the highest sources of fiber and contain healthy carbohydrates that are digested slowly. In particular, lentils, black beans and lima beans should be eaten as much as possible. Most snack bar recipes do not include beans, but see if you can find a way to sneak them in. Even if you can't, giving beans to your child to take to school or camp will ensure that his diet is full of fiber and low in unhealthy carbohydrates.

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About the Author

David Coodin began working as a freelancer in 2005, and has been published in "The Walrus." He contributes to various websites, writing primarily in the areas of education and art. Coodin is also a Ph.D. student in English literature at York University in Toronto.

Photo Credits

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