Clif Bar, the indulgent energy bar put under the microscope...
To the delight of athletes and their taste buds, Clif Bar arrived in Europe only a few years ago. Since then, the brand, the undisputed leader in the United States and Canada, has been winning over more and more athletes.
And ... we were among the first to offer it to you in exclusive multipack deals!!!
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But where does Clif Bar come from?
It was in California, in the early 1990s, that American athlete Gary Erickson created these bars. Gary regularly went on bike rides of more than 300 km. To keep going, he would wolf down energy bars one after another, sometimes until he felt sick! And during one of these rides, he thought to himself: "I could make a much better bar than this!"
Two years later, after hours spent in the kitchen with his mother testing recipes, Clif Bar was born! Gary, a top-level athlete, and his exceptionally talented cook of a mother had achieved their goal of creating a high-performance, delicious energy bar. They named it in tribute to the athlete’s father, Clifford Erickson.
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A wonderful story, but what is the product really like? What is its purpose, effectiveness, taste, which sport is it suited to, and when should it be consumed? A closer look at this unique energy bar that continues to attract attention.
1. Ingredients
90% of the ingredients used in Clif Bars come from organic farming.
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Clif Bars are made with nutritious but simple ingredients (oat flakes, dates from organic farming). Sources of protein and fiber, they provide vitamins B6 and B12, which contribute to healthy energy metabolism. They also provide vitamins A, D, E, and C, calcium, magnesium, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin—in short, everything you need to keep going!
2. Nutritional values
- Calorie intake
A Clif Bar provides an average of nearly 240 calories, so it is recommended to consume it in several portions to promote assimilation.
- Protein intake
The protein content of Clif Bar will help prevent energy slumps and mistakes caused by mental fatigue, allowing you to stay focused on your effort.
- Carbohydrate intake
It will prevent hypoglycemia by maintaining blood glucose levels (60 g/h maximum) throughout your effort.
- Fat intake
It gives the energy bar a smooth texture and preserves the enjoyment of eating, without slowing carbohydrate absorption.
3. When should you consume it?
- During training
One bar is close to the recommended daily nutritional intake in terms of the distribution of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It can therefore serve as a snack, a waiting ration, or recovery nutrition during prolonged efforts.
However, it is advisable to space its consumption apart from meals and consume it 1.5 to 2 hours before training to promote absorption before exercise.
- During competition
Clif Bar is a good solid alternative to gels and energy drinks and avoids the feeling of disgust or nausea that can occur during long-duration exercise. It is recommended to consume it with water to aid absorption.
4. Its packaging
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- It opens very easily; Clif Bar opens from all sides without any special care.
- Its packaging was also designed so that the bar could be eaten in several portions without the product deteriorating in the pocket once opened
5. Its texture
- The bar is dense but particularly smooth
- It is not dry or crumbly, preventing the choking sensation that can sometimes occur
- In cold weather, it stays soft thanks to its coating (maple syrup, brown rice) and is easy to eat
- In hot weather, it will not melt and will remain very pleasant to eat
6. Frequency
One to three hours before exercise, with water, to build up reserves and prevent hunger. During exercise, take small regular portions accompanied by a drink. Their delicious taste also makes them a good snack during long days.
7. The key strength
Unquestionably, the flavor! A Clif Bar's energy performance is excellent, but what makes it the number-one choice of North American athletes is its delicious taste. For them, eating during exercise is no longer a necessity but a real pleasure.
8. Flavor
There's something for everyone!
- 1x Clif Bar Blueberry Crisp
- 1x Clif Bar Chocolate Almond Fudge
- 1x Clif Bar Chocolate Chip
- 1x Clif Bar Crunchy Peanut Butter
- 1x Clif Bar Peanut Butter Banana
- 1x Clif Bar White Chocolate Macadamia Nut
- 1x Clif Bar NBF - Chocolate Hazelnut Butter
- 1x Clif Bar NBF - Chocolate Peanut Butter
- 1x Clif Bar NBF - Peanut Butter
Tested and compared by Nicolas Aubineau, sports and clinical dietitian-nutritionist. The Clif Bar came in first place. Here is what he says: "The highest-quality bar in the panel. Well-balanced in carbohydrates, sodium, magnesium, vitamin B, and antioxidants, with a good sugar ratio. No potassium or BCAA. A below-average price per kg. First bar… by far."
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