LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, BANANA BREAD achieves a FoodScore of 85, placing it in the 'Very good' category. This high score is primarily driven by its nutrient density and simple ingredient profile. With 9.8g of fiber per 100g, the bar receives a significant bonus, contributing to satiety and digestive health. The protein content of 11.8g per 100g also adds to its positive score. Furthermore, the product is rich in key micronutrients such as potassium (18% DV), magnesium (28% DV), and iron (12% DV), which are naturally occurring from its whole food ingredients like almonds and dates. The fat profile is favorable, with only 1.96g of saturated fat and 0g of trans fat per 100g. Crucially, it contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, aligning well with dietary guidelines. Its NOVA classification of 2 indicates it is minimally processed, consisting mainly of whole foods with few culinary ingredients. Compared to a reference baseline of raw almonds or fruit, this LARABAR bar offers a similar nutritional profile in a convenient format.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in larabar the original fruit & nut food bar, banana bread actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This LARABAR product is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 9.8g per 100g. Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. The fiber content, primarily from dates and almonds, contributes to a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for overall digestive function. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also help manage blood sugar levels.
Provides Essential Minerals
The bar naturally contains several important minerals, including magnesium (28% DV), potassium (18% DV), and iron (12% DV) per 100g. Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, supporting muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Potassium is vital for fluid balance and blood pressure, while iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. These minerals are derived from the whole food ingredients like almonds and bananas.
Offers a Convenient, Minimally Processed Snack
With an ingredient list of only almonds, dates, and unsweetened bananas, this bar is a minimally processed snack option. It falls into NOVA class 2, meaning it consists of whole foods with few culinary ingredients. This makes it a suitable choice for those seeking convenience without relying on highly processed foods. It can be a practical option when whole fruits or nuts are not readily available.
LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, BANANA BREAD scores 85/100 (Very good) due to its high fiber content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
LARABAR bars are typically consumed as a quick snack between meals or as a convenient energy boost. They are often eaten on the go, during travel, or as part of a packed lunch. A single bar is a common portion size, providing a concentrated source of energy and nutrients.
Pair with a source of lean protein, such as a hard-boiled egg or a small serving of Greek yogurt, to create a more balanced snack.
Consider breaking the bar into smaller pieces and adding it to oatmeal or a smoothie for added fiber and natural sweetness.
Use this bar as a pre-workout snack for sustained energy due to its natural sugar and healthy fat content.
While convenient, remember that a single bar is calorie-dense (around 200 calories), so portion control is key if managing calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains almonds, which are a common tree nut allergen. Individuals with tree nut allergies should avoid this product. The simple ingredient list means there are no artificial additives, colors, or preservatives to be concerned about. Due to its natural sugar content from dates and bananas, individuals monitoring their sugar intake, such as those with diabetes, should consider the total carbohydrate load. However, it contains no added sugars. There are no known interactions with medications or specific populations that need to be particularly cautious beyond those with nut allergies.
Reader questions
Is LARABAR THE ORIGINAL FRUIT & NUT FOOD BAR, BANANA BREAD healthy?
This LARABAR bar is considered a very good choice with a FoodScore of 85/100. It is made from whole food ingredients like almonds, dates, and bananas, providing fiber and essential minerals without any added sugars or sodium. It can be a beneficial part of a balanced diet.
How does LARABAR compare to other snack bars?
Compared to many other snack bars on the market, such as some KIND bars or Clif bars, this LARABAR stands out for its minimal ingredient list and absence of added sugars. While other bars may offer higher protein or specific fortified nutrients, this product focuses on whole food ingredients and natural sweetness, making it a less processed option.
What is the role of dates in this LARABAR bar?
Dates serve as a natural sweetener and binder in this LARABAR bar. They contribute to the bar's texture and provide natural sugars, fiber, and some minerals. Unlike added sugars, the sugars in dates come with beneficial fiber, which helps to moderate their impact on blood sugar.
Can I eat this LARABAR bar every day?
Eating this LARABAR bar daily can be part of a healthy diet, especially if it replaces less nutritious snack options. However, it is important to ensure overall dietary variety and balance. Consider its calorie density and integrate it into your daily intake alongside other whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Is this LARABAR bar suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This bar is made with simple, whole ingredients and contains no gluten-containing grains, dairy, or soy. It is also vegan. However, it does contain tree nuts (almonds), so it is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. Always check the ingredient list for specific allergens relevant to your diet.