NUTRITIONIST READS BETWEEN THE LABELS TO CHECK HOW GOOD HEALTHY SNACKS ARE
▶ Medcare’s Dr Lina Shibib calorie-crunches the items marketed as being beneficial.
The quest for healthy snacks is never-ending, with many consumers on the lookout for tasty treats that don’t derail our diets. From nut milk to protein bars, the aisles of most supermarkets across the UAE have sections dedicated to health foods, but just how nourishing are these so-called wholesome snacks?
The National asked clinical nutritionist Dr Lina Shibib of Medcare Hospitals and Medical Centres to analyse 10 popular bites, giving each a score out of five for their nutritional value.
Modern Bakery Protein Bread
A home-grown brand, Modern opened in 1975 as a small, family-run bakery. Today, it has a workforce of more than 1,500 and churns out about 2,500 varieties of baked goods for stores across the region.
Regarding its low-carb protein bread, Dr Shibib says: “Some potential health benefits of consuming protein bread include increased protein intake, reduced hunger and better blood sugar control.
“However, there are also some potential side effects, including digestive issues for people with soy or whey protein intolerances, high sodium content and higher cost compared to traditional bread.
“This particular loaf can be beneficial for athletes, people who are trying to lose weight or people with diabetes who need to regulate their blood sugar levels, although it may not be suitable for people on a low-sodium diet or those with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues.” Available in Lulu Hypermarket Verdict 4/5
Jealous Sweets Love Bears
A bag of Jealous Sweets Love Bears promises a “shamelessly tasty” sugar-free binge.
The gluten-free gummies are 100 per cent plant-based with no artificial colours or palm oil and are available in a variety of flavours. “While some of the ingredients in this snack may have potential health benefits,
MadeGood’s 100g granola minis bag contains 436 calories – almost the same as a McDonald’s double cheeseburger
such as pectin, coconut and rapeseed oil, others may cause digestive issues or increase the risk of heart disease if consumed in large amounts, such as saturated fat,” says Dr Shibib. “It’s important to consume snacks like these in moderation as part of a balanced diet.”
Available in Spinneys
Verdict 4/5
Go Natural Probiotic HiProtein Veggie Chips
Vegetable crisps are nothing new, but few offer more protein than a chicken thigh. Go Natural’s Probiotic HiProtein Veggie Chips contain 17g of protein in every bag (an average skinless thigh has 13.5g), as well as a billion probiotics and 13.5g of fibre.
A bag of the chilli and lime flavour received a thumbs up from Dr Shibib.
“Probiotics are probably the most desired ingredient in this snack as it is unusual and definitely makes this snack one of the healthiest of the lot,” she says. “Protein is also an essential nutrient that most people need, but those with kidney disease or other health issues may need to monitor their intake.”
Available in Waitrose
Verdict 4/5
Nakd Salted Caramel bar
The nakd brand proudly flaunts its stripped-back ingredients, promising no added sugar or additives in its coldpressed fruit and nut bars.
Dairy-free, gluten-free and wheat-free, the bars are a healthy snack suitable for most people, says Dr Shibib, who advises eating them for a quick energy boost without feeling guilty.
“Dates and raisins are natural sweeteners that provide fibre, vitamins and minerals, while cashews and peanuts are rich in protein, healthy fats and other essential nutrients,” she says. “Sea salt adds flavour and can help to replenish sodium that can be lost through sweating during physical activity.
“Overall, this snack can be a nutritious and delicious option for those looking for a healthy snack on the go.” Available in Zoom
Verdict 5/5
BeKind Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt
Supermarkets in the UAE offer an impressive range of cereal bars, including the BeKind Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt, which has a mere 5g of sugar – a little more than a teaspoon.
Stuffed full of nuts and drizzled with dark chocolate, the fibre-packed bar certainly tastes delicious, and it also gets the stamp of approval from Dr Shibib.
“Almonds and peanuts are both nutrient-dense foods that are high in protein, healthy fats, fibre and other important vitamins and minerals,” she says. “They can provide a healthy source of energy and help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
“Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and flavonoids that have been shown to provide health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
“However, be aware that the chocolate coating in this bar contains added sugar and fat in the form of cocoa butter.” Available in Lulu Hypermarket Verdict 4/5
Whole Earth Crunchy Organic Peanut Butter
Whether piled high on hot toast, dolloped into creamy porridge or spooned straight from the jar, peanut butter is
a universally cherished snack – but not all jars of the good stuff are created equal.
Many varieties are brimming with sugar and salt, which is where Whole Earth aims to blow competitors away. With “absolutely no added sugar” and organically grown peanuts, this savoury snack ticks all the boxes for Dr Shibib.
“Peanut butter is a generally healthy and delicious addition to a balanced diet for most people,” she says. “It is a good source of plant-based protein, healthy fats and dietary fibre.
“It also contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium and potassium, and is particularly beneficial for vegans or vegetarians who may struggle to meet their protein needs.
“Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re trying to lose weight as the calorie content is on the higher side.”
Available in Zoom
Verdict 4/5
Canderel Decadent Crispy & Almonds Chocolate Bar
If there is one snack that has impressed Dr Shibib the most, it is a bar of Canderel chocolate. “With only 125 calories per serving, this can be a satisfying and indulgent treat without overloading on calories,” she says.
“The amount of sugar is also relatively low, which can help to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.”
Despite her enthusiasm, the praise was delivered with a word of warning. “It’s important to keep in mind that chocolate is still high in fat, even if some of it is the healthy unsaturated type,” she says. “As ever, it’s best to enjoy this snack in moderation.” Available in Carrefour
Verdict 4/5
Carrefour Bio Galettes de riz Complet
The supermarket’s own brand of brown rice cakes comes with a chocolate and hazelnut spread in the middle.
Dr Shibib says the gluten-free snack may contain some nutritional value, but it’s not remarkable in any way.
“While organic brown rice is a nutritious whole grain that can provide fibre, protein and other important nutrients, the amount of cane sugar in the ingredient list suggests that this snack may be high in added sugars,” she says.
Available in Carrefour
Verdict 3/5
MadeGood Chocolate Banana Granola Minis
MadeGood snacks are manufactured in the US and the brand says it is committed to sustainability and giving back to the community.
But consumers could be getting more than they bargain for with the Chocolate Banana Granola Minis.
Each 100g bag contains 436 calories, which is almost the same as a McDonald’s double cheeseburger, which packs in 450 calories.
“Based on its nutrition facts, we can say this food is relatively high in calories, total fat and sugar, though it does contain a moderate amount of protein and dietary fibre,” says Dr Shibib. “People who are trying to lose weight or manage their blood sugar levels may need to limit their intake of high-calorie and high-sugar foods like this, as do individuals with certain medical conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.” Available in Spinneys
Verdict 2/5
The Freakin’ Healthy Superfood Bar
The Freakin’ Healthy Superfood Bar is dairy, wheat, GMO and gluten-free. But despite those positive assertions, there are some hidden traits lurking. Its high sugar and fat content has set alarm bells ringing for Dr Shibib.
“While it does contain 10g of protein, which can be beneficial for building and repairing tissues, the amount of total fat and saturated fat is quite high, which can be detrimental to heart health if consumed in excess,” she says.
“Additionally, the sodium content is quite high, which can contribute to high blood pressure in some individuals.
“While it does contain some dietary fibre, the amount of sugar is also quite high, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and crashes if consumed in excessive amounts.
“While matcha and green tea can have health benefits, it’s important to consider the overall nutrient profile of the snacks using them.”
Available in Waitrose
Verdict 2/5