Frequently Asked Questions
- What's so special about the fiber in Gnu Bars?
- What is the definition of high-fiber?
- What's the difference between "whole grain" and "whole grain fiber"?
- What is a Dextrin?
- Is a Gnu Bar a food or a pharmaceutical?
- Are Gnu Bars Kosher?
- Can I eat too many Gnu Bars?
- Where can I find Gnu Bars?
What's so special about the fiber in Gnu Bars?
While there are many supplements and cereals that contain processed fiber, the 100% natural whole grains such as those in Gnu Bars are rich in beneficial nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients as well as rich in fiber. The whole grains in Gnu Bars contain all the parts of the entire grain kernel; they haven’t been milled or processed out like other so many other whole grain foods or supplements. Plus, unlike fiber supplements, Gnu Bars taste great. They also provide you with nearly half of the Daily Value of fiber your body needs to stay healthy!
Gnu Bars come in a convenient bar form so you can always have them with you. So when you think of fiber, think of great-tasting, all natural Gnu! It works!
What is the definition of high-fiber?
The Food and Drug Administration has established guidelines for the way products describe their nutritional values, including fiber content. Look at the nutritional facts panel on the packaged foods you buy and check under Daily Value on the far right column to determine if the food is high or low in fiber.
- 20% or more of the Daily Value per serving is “high” or an “excellent source of” fiber.
- 10-19% of the Daily Value per serving is a “good source of” fiber.
- 5% or less of the Daily Value per serving is considered “low in fiber”.
What's the difference between "whole grain" and "whole grain fiber"?
Lately, “whole grain” has become a health buzzword. New whole grain food products are flooding the market. Whole grain contains the entire grain kernel—the bran, germ, and endosperm. Refined grains have been milled, a process that removes the bran and germ. This is done to improve shelf life and give grains a finer texture, but it also removes dietary fiber, iron and B vitamins. Examples of refined grain products are:
- White flour
- White bread
- White rice
- De-germed cornmeal
Many refined grains are said to be “enriched”. That means certain vitamins, and iron are added back after processing. However, fiber is not added back to enriched grains.
Many ready-to-eat cereals that claim to be whole grain have less than 2 grams of fiber and lots of added sugar.
Don’t be fooled by the “whole grain” labeling. An article in the February 9, 2005 issue of The New York Times titled “Selling Wholesomeness in the Breakfast Bowl” reported that many “so-called” whole grain cereals, especially the sweetened versions, have little or no fiber. Additionally, an expert at the Center for Science in the Public Interest is quoted as saying” It’s important for people to realize that using whole grains in breakfast cereals does not turn them into health foods. Many are still breakfast candy, almost half sugar.”
Check the ingredients list of your packaged foods. And look at the Nutrition Facts panel for fiber content. If you’re not getting the fiber with the whole grain, you’re missing out on many of the health benefits of whole grain fiber.
What is a Dextrin?
A dextrin is a complex carbohydrate which helps provide sustained energy for the body. It is an unmodified and unrefined starch. The source of the dextrins in Gnu Bars is brown rice. A dextrin should not be confused with a “maltodextrin”, which is a highly refined form of corn starch that is rapidly metabolized in the human body. Maltodextrins do not provide sustained energy and have little or no nutritional benefit.
Is a Gnu Bar a food or a pharmaceutical?
Food that Works. Beautifully.™
We call our Gnu Bar “functional food,” because it’s food that helps you address specific health concerns. We make food that does more than just taste great. It’s not medicine, but it “works.” Gnu Bars taste great and give your body the fiber it needs while also helping you target irregularity and high cholesterol.
Think of it as food your body was made for.
Are Gnu Bars Kosher?
The OU-D symbol on every Gnu Bar certifies that it is a kosher product certified by the Orthodox Union. Because our bakery also processes dairy products, Gnu Bars carry a "D" after the OU symbol, but the bars themselves are dairy free.
Can I eat too many Gnu Bars?
We recommend starting with one bar a day, if your body isn't used to getting the fiber it needs. Gnu Bars are gentle and effective and won’t cause diarrhea. You will experience less strain during bowel movements and more regularity. As with any new food you add to your diet, moderation is key. Be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day as you increase your fiber intake.
Where can I find Gnu Bars?
Please click on Where to Buy to find stores near you.
If no stores in your area carry Gnu Foods Flavor & Fiber Bars and you would like your favorite store to carry them, you can print out our Product Request Form and give it to the store manager or grocery buyer.
It’s also very easy and convenient to order Gnu Bars online from our secure Gnu Foods Shop.
