As the low FODMAP diet continues to gain popularity and credibility as a way to reduce the misery of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), it was only a matter of time before low FODMAP products started showing up in the market place.
TrueSelf Foods recently sent me samples of their new line of low FODMAP snack bars to review. The bars come in 4 flavors and can be purchased on the company’s website. A box of six costs US$15.
The bars are oat-based, sweetened with brown rice syrup, and feature a variety of seeds (chia, sunflower, pumpkin, poppy), fruits (banana, blueberries) and spices (cinnamon, ginger, lemon, nutmeg). Also some quinoa, just for good measure.
The bars are certified “FODMAP friendly”, which should make them a good choice for those who are getting good results from this approach. (Although I think there are other non-specialty snack bars that would also meet these criteria.)
When you read the ingredient list, you might be pleased to see an absence of synthetic additives and preservatives. However, you might also notice that brown rice syrup and sugar are the second and third ingredient. And they taste like it: the bars are quite sweet–more of a dessert than a meal replacement.
Each bar has about 9 or 10 grams of added sugars, or about 1/3 your daily “allowance.” They’re about 150 calories, 3-4 grams of protein, 2-3 grams of fat, and 2 grams of fiber. So: not exactly a nutritional powerhouse.
But as a “safe” treat for those looking for low FODMAP snack options, they fit the bill.
Seems like a lot of sugar and a steep price. Even though they “fit the bill” as food safe for people with IBS, would you actually recommend them? They hardly seem worth it.
My comments are intended as a review and not a recommendation. I thought they tasted good (although too sweet for my taste) and were made with quality ingredients. And, if that’s how someone wants to spend their sugar allowance, I have no objection. Personally, I wouldn’t spend the money for them but then again I am not restricted to a low FODMAP diet. Those who are, and feel that they just don’t have enough good options, might appreciate knowing about this product so they can decide for themselves!
Thank you for your insight. 🙂
I bought these and thought they were terrible!
What didn’t you like about them? You didn’t care for the taste, or did they cause digestive symptoms for you?