hi Sue, and everybody,
Here is my take on the protein bars -
1. Some manufacturers use glycerine/glycerol as a sweetener. Glycerine is not classified as a carbohydrate for food labelling purposes, so these manufacturer do not include it in the total carb count in the nutrient data on the product. So, someone on Induction might choose one of these bars, thinking it only has 2 carbs, when in fact the true count might be 12 or 15 grams!
2. About glycerine/glycerol. This carb is rapidly absorbed, and is a preferred fuel for muscle tissue. It's often used in sports nutrition, since it provides ready-fuel during long workouts (especially distance runners and cyclists), without causing insulin to rise. The problem for lowcarbers who just want a mid-afternoon snack .... the glycerine will be used as fuel in preference over KETONES. So, even though there's no rise in insulin, and consequently no storage of fat resulting, it can and will inhibit ketosis and fatBURNING. For some folks, it can take many hours (up to 24) to get back into ketosis and fat-burning mode.
3. Homemade protein bars can be a suitable alternative, as long as the individual ingredients aren't problematic for the user. It really is great to have something fast and ready to grab, that actually tastes good ..
I guess too, if you're really hungry, and the choice is a glycerine-sweetened protein bar vs. Snickers, the better choice is obviously the lower carb bar, which is also a lot higher in protein too.
Just my opinions, and some folks eat these bars with no problem. Expensive though ..
Doreen