Skip to content

How much fiber is in a Fiber Now bar? A complete nutritional analysis

3 min read

According to the National Health Service, most adults in the US and UK fall short of the recommended daily fiber intake. For those looking to bridge this gap with a convenient snack, understanding how much fiber is in a Fiber Now bar? is a common question, as these bars from Millville have become a popular option.

Quick Summary

Millville Fiber Now bars, available at stores like Aldi, offer a quick and easy way to increase dietary fiber. The fiber content varies by flavor, with most soft-baked 70-calorie options providing 6g of fiber, largely sourced from chicory root extract and other added ingredients.

Key Points

  • Fiber Content: Most 70-calorie Millville Fiber Now bars contain 6 grams of dietary fiber per bar, though specific values can vary.

  • Fiber Source: The primary fiber-providing ingredient is often chicory root extract (inulin), a type of soluble fiber, rather than whole foods.

  • Comparison to Competitors: Brands like Fiber One offer similar calorie and fiber counts, but others like KIND bars use more whole-food ingredients and may have different macro profiles.

  • Digestive Effects: A high intake of added fiber and sugar alcohols can lead to gastrointestinal side effects like gas and bloating in some people.

  • Holistic Nutrition: While convenient, fiber bars are not a replacement for a diet rich in whole-food fiber sources, which offer a wider range of essential nutrients.

  • Best Use: Use fiber bars to supplement your daily fiber intake, but prioritize getting fiber from whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts for optimal health benefits.

In This Article

The Fiber Content of Millville Fiber Now Bars

Millville's Fiber Now bars, primarily sold at Aldi, come in various flavors and formulations. The fiber content can vary depending on the specific product, especially between the older 90-calorie versions and the more common 70-calorie soft-baked bars. For the current lineup, the fiber typically ranges from 5 to 6 grams per bar.

Fiber breakdown by popular flavor

  • 70 Calorie Chocolate Fudge Soft Baked Bar: Contains 6 grams of dietary fiber per 25g serving.
  • 70 Calorie Lemon Flavored Soft Baked Bar: Also provides 6 grams of dietary fiber per bar.
  • Soft Baked Bars, Cinnamon Coffee Cake: Offers 6 grams of dietary fiber per serving.

The source of the fiber

The fiber in Fiber Now bars isn't primarily from whole foods like oats or nuts, but rather from processed or added sources. The main fiber-enhancing ingredient listed is often chicory root extract.

Chicory root extract, also known as inulin, is a soluble fiber that the body cannot digest. It passes through the digestive system largely intact, where it can provide prebiotic benefits by feeding healthy gut bacteria. Other ingredients like sugarcane fiber and polydextrose may also contribute to the total fiber count. This differs from the fiber found naturally in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Nutritional Comparison: Fiber Now vs. Competitors

When choosing a fiber bar, it's wise to compare the nutritional profile beyond just the fiber count. Key factors include calories, total sugar, added sugar, and the overall quality of ingredients. Below is a comparison table of Millville Fiber Now bars against other popular brands.

Feature Millville Fiber Now (70 Cal) Fiber One (70 Cal Fudge Brownie) KIND Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt
Calories 70 70 180
Fiber (g) 6 7 7
Sugar (g) 2 (Total) 2 (Total) 4 (Added)
Added Sugars (g) 2 2 4
Protein (g) 1-2 2 6
Key Fiber Source Chicory Root Extract, Sugarcane Fiber Chicory Root Extract Whole Foods (Nuts, Seeds)

Pros and Cons of Relying on Fiber Bars

While convenient, fiber bars should not be the sole source of fiber in your diet. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Pros

  • Convenient and Portable: Individually wrapped bars are easy to take on the go for a quick snack or meal replacement.
  • Supports Digestive Health: The added soluble fiber can help regulate bowel movements and support gut health.
  • Promotes Fullness: The high fiber content can help you feel full for longer, potentially curbing appetite.
  • Manages Blood Sugar: By slowing down digestion, fiber can help prevent rapid blood sugar spikes.

Cons

  • Potential for GI Discomfort: A sudden increase in fiber intake, especially from processed sources, can cause bloating, gas, or cramping in some individuals.
  • Added Sugars and Fillers: Many fiber bars contain sugar alcohols and other processed ingredients to enhance flavor and texture. Excessive amounts of sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues.
  • Not a Replacement for Whole Foods: While they provide fiber, these bars lack the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in whole food sources.

How to Increase Your Fiber Intake Naturally

For a more holistic approach to meeting your daily fiber needs, consider incorporating these whole food sources into your diet:

  • Fruits: Raspberries, apples (with skin), bananas, and pears.
  • Vegetables: Broccoli, artichokes, and Brussels sprouts.
  • Legumes: Lentils, black beans, and chickpeas.
  • Whole Grains: Oats, quinoa, barley, and whole-wheat bread.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds.

Conclusion

For those wondering how much fiber is in a Fiber Now bar?, the answer is typically 5 to 6 grams, depending on the flavor. These bars can be a handy, low-calorie option for a quick fiber boost. However, their reliance on processed fibers like chicory root extract means they are not a substitute for fiber from whole foods. While they can be part of a balanced diet, it is important to also focus on a varied intake of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains for comprehensive nutrition and to avoid potential digestive side effects. As with any diet, incorporating a mix of both natural and supplementary sources is the best approach for long-term health.

For more information on the benefits of whole-food fiber and maintaining gut health, consult a reliable resource like Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the nutritional content varies by flavor and whether it's a soft-baked bar or an older chewy bar. The calorie count has also changed, with recent versions being 70 calories, down from previous 90-calorie bars.

Chicory root extract, or inulin, is a soluble, dietary fiber that is often used as a supplement in processed foods like fiber bars. It provides prebiotic benefits but does not offer the same nutrients as whole-food fiber.

Yes, for some individuals, consuming a concentrated amount of processed fiber and sugar alcohols like erythritol and sorbitol (which are found in some bars) can lead to gas, bloating, or other digestive discomfort.

While fiber promotes a feeling of fullness, which can aid weight management, weight loss is dependent on overall calorie intake and exercise. These bars should not be used as a replacement for whole, nutrient-dense foods.

Many fiber bars use concentrated or processed fibers to boost their content. However, some brands, like KIND bars, primarily use fiber from whole-food sources such as nuts, seeds, and oats.

The choice between Fiber Now (Millville) and Fiber One depends on your specific nutritional goals. While the calorie and fiber counts are often similar, Fiber One's 70-calorie brownies may offer slightly more fiber (7g vs. 6g) with similar added sugar levels. Check the specific product labels for the most accurate comparison.

Healthier alternatives include whole foods rich in fiber, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds (chia, flax), and whole grains like oatmeal. These sources provide a more complete nutritional profile without the processed ingredients.

References

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8
  9. 9
  10. 10

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.