Made from exactly 3 ingredients: dates, almonds, and cherries. Larabar is the closest thing to real food in the bar section of the gocery store.

If you have not figured it out yet, I love the book Eat This, Not That!. Heck, I love the entire series of books they offer. This book doesn't preach or tout a specific diet; it merely points out bad foods and makes suggestion that may be better. It is the most comprehensive, up-to-date menu and grocery information guide on the market.

Since the motocross and action sports communities are fed an overwhelmingly large dose of "energy" related products through million dollar marketing campaigns, I thought this article was very important. If you are one of the millions who like to grab an energy bar for a quick snack or to use on race day, make sure you read this article. It will help you make a more informed choice the next time you are at the grocery store.

One word describes what Americans want from their diet these days: Convenience. So stock the supermarket with compact “energy-on-the-go” food touted to fight fatigue, fuel muscle growth, or help you lose weight and it’s guaranteed to fly off the shelves. That’s why sales of energy bars have seen incredible growth over the last decade, with more than $700 million in sales, according to research in Dietitian's Edge.

Cut through the hype and flashy packaging, and you're often left with a hefty (and expensive) dose of sugar, oil, and a mass of added vitamins and minerals. With little research to back up the bars claims, many are nothing more than protein-containing candy in disguise. So do you really need any of this stuff? Eat This, Not That! took a look at some of the biggest and boldest bars around to find the answer.

Things you should know

1. They may not have as much protein as you think.
2. Could it damage your manhood?
3. They are often glued together with sugar
4. They don't boost energy
5. They are loaded with sugar substitutes

To read the complete article, please click here.

That's it for now, until next time, good luck with your training and remember, if you have a question, log on to the Virtual Trainer Expert Forum and have your question answered by a panel of experts. In addition, be sure and check out the Racer X Virtual Trainer archive section. Your complete one-stop information zone for motocross fitness.

1. 
   Celeste Pinheiro May 17, 2010 at 10:53 am

   Peanut butter and jelly is my fuel--100% peanut Adams Natural, whole wheat bread(the two together make a complete protein BTW), and homegrown raspberry jam. It tastes good, doesn't make me feel full, it's balanced (protein, fat, simple/complex carb). I do have a smushed up Powerbar in my camelback, in case I get stuck out in the bush and I can't stab a deer to roast for dinner....