Larabars have gained popularity in recent years as more people seek out healthier snack options. Made with only a few simple ingredients, Larabars are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional sugary snacks and candy bars. But are they really healthy?
In this blog post, we’ll delve into what makes up a Larabar, examine their nutrition content and provide guidance as to when it’s best to choose one. So if you’re wondering whether Larabars are right for your diet, read on!
Overview of Larabars and what makes them unique
Larabars are energy bars made with natural ingredients like dates, nuts and dried fruit that are blended together to form a bar. The company has a commitment to using only non-GMO and natural ingredients, as well as no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. This makes them a great choice for those looking for natural snacks that are free from processed sugars or potentially harmful chemicals.
Ingredients in Larabars
The ingredients in Larabars vary by flavor, but typically include dates, nuts, dried fruit and spices. Most Larabars are naturally sweet but some Larabars contain added sugar in the form of cane sugar where chocolate chips are used as one of the ingredients. The Chocolate Peanut Caramel Truffle flavor is additionally sweetened with maple sugar.
The simplicity of the ingredients makes Larabars a great choice for those looking for snacks with simple, recognizable ingredients. All Larabars are dairy-free and vegan and contain no preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.
Here are all the flavors of Larabars currently listed on the brand’s website and their ingredients:
| LARABAR FLAVOR | INGREDIENTS |
| Almond Butter Chocolate Chip | ALMONDS, DATES, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), APPLES, COCOA POWDER*, SEA SALT |
| Almond Cookie | ALMONDS, DATES, APPLES, SEA SALT, ALMOND EXTRACT |
| Apple Pie | DATES, ALMONDS, UNSWEETENED APPLES, WALNUTS, RAISINS, CINNAMON |
| Banana Bread | ALMONDS, DATES, UNSWEETENED BANANAS |
| Banana Chocolate Chip | DATES, ALMONDS, UNSWEETENED BANANAS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT) |
| Blueberry Muffin | CASHEWS, DATES, APPLES, BLUEBERRIES, VANILLA EXTRACT |
| Carrot Cake | DATES, ALMONDS, WALNUTS, RAISINS, DRIED PINEAPPLE, UNSWEETENED COCONUT, CARROTS, CINNAMON, EXTRA VIRGIN COCONUT OIL |
| Cashew Cookie | CASHEWS, DATES |
| Cherry Pie | DATES, ALMONDS, UNSWEETENED CHERRIES |
| Chocolate Chip Brownie | DATES, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), ALMONDS, WALNUTS, COCOA POWDER, SEA SALT |
| Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough | CASHEWS, DATES, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), APPLES, SEA SALT, VANILLA EXTRACT |
| Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl | DATES, HAZELNUTS, ALMONDS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), PEARS, COCOA POWDER*, SEA SALT, VANILLA EXTRACT |
| Chocolate Peanut Caramel Truffle | DATES, PEANUTS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), CASHEWS, MAPLE SUGAR, SEA SALT, VANILLA EXTRACT |
| Chocolate Raspberry Truffle | DATES, CASHEWS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), RASPBERRY, COCOA POWDER*, SEA SALT, RASPBERRY EXTRACT |
| Cinnamon Raisin Cookie | DATES, ALMONDS, RAISINS, APPLES, CINNAMON |
| Cinnamon Roll | DATES, WALNUTS, ALMONDS, RAISINS, CINNAMON, SEA SALT |
| Chocolate Coconut Chew | DATES, ALMONDS, WALNUTS, UNSWEETENED COCOA POWDER, UNSWEETENED COCONUT |
| Coconut Chocolate Chip | DATES, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), UNSWEETENED COCONUT, CASHEWS, ALMONDS |
| Coconut Cream Pie | DATES, UNSWEETENED COCONUT, ALMONDS, CASHEWS |
| Double Chocolate Truffle | DATES, CASHEWS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), COCOA POWDER*, SEA SALT |
| Gingerbread | DATES, CASHEWS, ALMONDS, RAISINS, CINNAMON, GINGER, ALLSPICE, VANILLA EXTRACT |
| Key Lime Pie | DATES, CASHEWS, ALMONDS, UNSWEETENED COCONUT, LIME JUICE CONCENTRATE, DRIED LIME JUICE CONCENTRATE |
| Lemon Bar | DATES, CASHEWS, ALMONDS, LEMON JUICE CONCENTRATE, DRIED LEMON JUICE CONCENTRATE, LEMON OIL |
| Mint Chip Brownie | DATES, ALMONDS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), CASHEWS, COCOA POWDER, PEPPERMINT OIL |
| Peanut Butter & Jelly | DATES, PEANUTS, UNSWEETENED CHERRIES, SEA SALT |
| Peanut Butter Banana | PEANUTS, DATES, UNSWEETENED BANANAS, APPLES, PEANUT OIL, SEA SALT |
| Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip | DATES, PEANUTS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), SEA SALT |
| Peanut Butter Cookie | DATES, PEANUTS, SEA SALT |
| Pecan Pie | DATES, PECANS, ALMONDS |
| Pineapple Upside Down Cake | DATES, ALMONDS, PINEAPPLE |
| Pumpkin Pie | DATES, CASHEWS, APPLES, ALMONDS, PUMPKIN, CINNAMON, NUTMEG, ALLSPICE, GINGER |
| Strawberry Chocolate Chip | DATES, ALMONDS, SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS (UNSWEETENED CHOCOLATE, CANE SUGAR, COCOA BUTTER, VANILLA EXTRACT), STRAWBERRY, APPLES, COCOA POWDER*, SEA SALT |
Different flavors of Larabars available
Larabars started with 4 flavors: Apple Pie, Cashew Cookie, Cocoa Coconut Chew, and Cherry Pie. Now, there are around 30 flavors to choose from on the Larabar website, inspired by sweet treats but made with only a few simple ingredients.
Some of the most popular flavors of Larabars include:
- Apple Pie
- Cashew Cookie
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
- Blueberry Muffin
- Chocolate Chip Brownie
- Coconut Cream Pie
- Key Lime Pie
- Lemon Bar
- Chocolate Coconut Chew
- Peanut Butter & Jelly
Nutritional facts about Larabars
- Depending on the flavor, each serving of a Larabar (45g) provides 180-230 calories.
- The least calories are found in Cinnamon Raisin Cookie and Pineapple Upside Down Cake flavors (180)
- The Almond Cookie flavor has the most calories – 230.
- The total fat content in each serving ranges from 7g to 14g, with most flavors having around 9g to 12g.
- The majority of the flavors have a low amount of sodium, with some having as little as 0mg and others having up to 130mg.
- The total carbs in each bar range from 20g to 28g, with most having around 24g to 27g.
- Most of the flavors have a moderate amount of fiber, with most having 3g to 5g per serving.
Sugar content
The total sugars in the bars vary, with some having as little as 15g and others having up to 26g. Most of this sugar is natural and comes from dates and dried fruits but some of the bars have added sugars, specifically those with chocolate chips as one of the ingredients. In these bars, there is normally 3-4g of added sugar which is around 1 teaspoon or slightly less. The Caramel Truffle flavor contains the most added sugar, with 6g per bar.
Which Larabar has the least sugar?
The least sugar overall has an Almond Cookie flavor, containing 13g of sugar in total. There are no added sugars in this flavor, only natural sugar from dates and apples. However, this flavor also has the most calories.
Lara bars without added sugar
Out of all the flavors of Larabars available on the website, 19 are without added sugar. These are: Almond Cookie, Apple Pie, Banana Bread, Blueberry Muffin, Carrot Cake, Cashew Cookie, Cherry Pie, Cinnamon Raisin Cookie, Cinnamon Roll, Chocolate Coconut Chew, Coconut Cream Pie, Gingerbread, Key Lime Pie, Lemon Bar, Peanut Butter & Jelly, Peanut Butter Banana, Peanut Butter Cookie, Pecan Pie, Pineapple Upside Down Cake.
Protein content
The protein content of the bars ranges from 3g to 6g per serving. The most protein is found in the Almond Cookie, Peanut Butter & Jelly and Peanut Butter Cookie flavors, with 6g of protein per bar.
Which Larabar has the most fiber?
Most flavors have 3g to 5g of fiber per serving, with the Almond Cookie, Chocolate Hazelnut Swirl and Strawberry Chocolate Chip flavors having the most fiber at 5g per bar.
Which Larabar is the healthiest?
Overall, the healthiest Larabars are those without added sugar and with higher amounts of protein and fiber. The Almond Cookie flavor has the most fiber and protein and no added sugar, making it the healthiest choice. However, this flavor also has the most calories. The next healthiest options are the Peanut Butter & Jelly and Peanut Butter Cookie flavors, which both have 6g of protein but no added sugar.
Health Benefits of Eating Larabars
Here are some of the health benefits associated with eating Larabars:
Rich in Fiber
Larabars contain a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is important for promoting gut health and helping you feel full after eating. This can help with weight management, as fiber helps slow the digestion process and prevents a spike in blood sugar levels.
Low in Added Sugars
Larabars are made with natural sweeteners, such as dates and dried fruits, making them a low-sugar alternative to many processed snacks. However, some Larabars contain added sugars, so it is important to check the label before purchasing.
Full of Antioxidants
In addition to being low in sugar, Larabars are also rich in antioxidants which help fight off free radicals and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Some antioxidant-rich ingredients used in Larabars include dried fruits, nuts, cacao powder and spices.
Good Source of Healthy Fats
Larabars contain nuts, such as almonds and cashews, which are a good source of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are important for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation.
High Nutritional Value
Another benefit of eating Larabars is their high nutritional value – they’re packed with vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and zinc that help promote overall health and well-being. Plus, the blend of healthy fats, carbohydrates, proteins and fibers provides sustained energy for longer-lasting endurance throughout the day.
Gluten-Free
Larabars are gluten-free, making them a good option for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
A good source of energy
Larabars are a good source of energy, as they are high in carbohydrates, which are broken down into glucose and used by the body for energy. Plus, they contain a healthy balance of proteins and fats which are broken down more slowly and help provide sustained energy throughout the day.
Larabars are particularly beneficial for athletes and those who are looking for a healthy snack to fuel their physical activities.
Concerns about Larabars
While Larabars have many health benefits, there are also some concerns to keep in mind. Here are a few:
High in Caloric Density
Larabars can be high in caloric density, meaning they contain a lot of calories for their size. This can make it easy to overconsume them, which can lead to weight gain, so it’s important to watch your portion size and balance out your intake of other healthy snacks.
High in Natural Sugars
Even though Larabars are low in added sugars, they are still high in natural sugars from the dried fruits they contain. This can be a concern for people with diabetes or those trying to limit their sugar intake.
Contain Sodium
Some varieties of Larabars contain added salt, which can increase their sodium content. Consuming too much sodium can be harmful to heart health, so it’s important to be mindful of this when choosing which Larabars to eat.
May Contain Allergens
Larabars contain nuts, which can be a concern for people with nut allergies. Additionally, they may contain other allergens, so it’s important to read the ingredients label before purchasing.
Are Larabars good or bad for you?
Overall, Larabars can be a healthy snack option when consumed in moderation. They are high in fiber and antioxidants, low in added sugars, and full of healthy fats and nutrients. However, they are also high in caloric density and natural sugars, as well as some varieties contain added salt or potential allergens, so it’s important to be mindful of these factors when choosing which Larabars to eat. Ultimately, Larabars are a healthier alternative to many processed snacks but should be consumed in moderation in order to reap the full health benefits.
FAQs about Larabars
Can you eat Larabars on Whole30?
The Whole30 diet is a 30-day elimination diet that focuses on eating whole, unprocessed foods. The diet eliminates grains, legumes, dairy, added sugars, and artificial ingredients.
Most Larabars are made from nuts, dried fruit, and spices, which align with the guidelines of the Whole30 diet.
However, it’s important to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no added sugars or chocolate as these are not allowed on the program. In conclusion, Larabars can technically be eaten on the Whole30 diet, but it’s important to make sure that your chosen flavor aligns with the guidelines of the program.
Are Larabars keto?
Most Larabars have 24-27g of carbohydrates and 15-26g of sugar per bar. Considering that the keto diet recommends consuming around 30-50g of carbohydrates per day, it might be difficult for some people to fit a Larabar into their daily macros. Therefore, it is best for individuals on the keto diet to check the ingredients list and nutrition facts of each Larabar to ensure it meets their individual dietary needs.
Are Larabars paleo?
Yes, most Larabars are considered paleo-friendly. The Paleo diet focuses on eating whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, and nuts. Most Larabars are made from these types of ingredients although you have to keep in mind that some flavors contain added sugars, so it’s important to check the ingredients list of each bar before consuming.
Are Larabars low FODMAP?
Larabars can be suitable for a low FODMAP diet, but it depends on the specific variety and ingredients. For example, some varieties contain ingredients that are high in FODMAPs, such as cashews so it’s important to check the label and choose a variety that aligns with a low FODMAP diet.
Additionally, Larabars contain dried fruits, which can be high in FODMAPs due to the concentration of sugars and fructans. Consuming a large serving size of dried fruits can lead to the ingestion of high levels of FODMAPs, making them potentially problematic for individuals following a low FODMAP diet. It’s important to check the label and be mindful of serving sizes when choosing Larabars.
Can Larabars cause diarrhea?
It is possible that consuming too many Larabars could cause diarrhea due to the presence of FODMAPs, as well as other ingredients like cashews, which can be hard to digest. Additionally, Larabars contain a high amount of natural sugars, which can also cause digestive distress if consumed in large amounts. It’s important to pay attention to your body and be mindful of serving sizes when eating Larabars.
Are Larabars safe during pregnancy?
It is generally considered safe to eat Larabars while pregnant, as long as you maintain a balanced diet and watch your portion size. However, women with gestational diabetes should be aware of the sugar levels in certain Larabars due to high amounts of dried fruit and added sugars as these can cause blood sugar fluctuations. It’s best to speak with your doctor before adding them to your diet in order to ensure their safety during pregnancy.
Are Larabars good for diabetics?
For individuals with diabetes, it is important to pay close attention to the sugar content of Larabars. Some varieties contain high levels of natural sugars, which can cause blood sugar fluctuations. It’s best to check the nutrition facts of each bar and be mindful of serving sizes if you are diabetic.
Can toddlers and babies eat Larabars?
Larabars contain nuts, dried fruits, and spices, which can be choking hazards for young children and may not be appropriate for their developing digestive systems. Additionally, some Larabars contain added sugars which are not recommended for young children. Therefore, it is best to consult with a paediatrician before giving Larabars to toddlers or babies.
How many Larabars can you eat in a day?
The number of Larabars you can eat in a day depends on several factors, including your daily calorie needs, dietary restrictions, and individual nutrient requirements.
Larabars can be a healthy snack option, but they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Most Larabars contain around 200-220 calories per bar, so it’s important to take that into consideration when planning your daily caloric intake.
Additionally, some Larabars contain high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates, which can be problematic for individuals following a low-carb or sugar-restricted diet. If you have any specific dietary restrictions, it’s important to check the label and choose a variety that aligns with your needs.
In conclusion, the number of Larabars you can eat in a day depends on several individual factors and should be consumed as part of a balanced diet. We would recommend you have no more than two Larabars a day.
Are Larabars fattening?
Larabars are not inherently fattening, but they can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. It’s important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and to pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to ensure you are eating the right amount for your needs.
Larabars vs Rx bars: Which are better?
It ultimately depends on your dietary needs and preferences, as both Larabars and Rx Bars have their own nutritional advantages. On one hand, Larabars are nut-based and all-natural, making them ideal for those with dairy or gluten allergies. RX Bars, however, rely heavily on egg whites for protein content, which makes them a better choice for those looking to up their protein intake. Both are valid choices; it’s important to compare the nutrition labels and find what works best for you.