Snack Bars as a Functional Snack Option for Individuals with Diabetes: A Review

Abstract

Snack bars can be a great example of functional foods, which are foods that provide health benefits beyond basicnutrition. By adding other functional ingredients such as nuts, seeds, fruits, and spices, snack bars can offer evenmore health benefits. For example, nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats and can help lower cholesterol levels,while fruits and berries are high in antioxidants and can help boost the immune system. Spices like cinnamon andginger have anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve digestion.Moreover, snack bars can be a convenient and portable way to get the nutrition and energy needed throughoutthe day. They can be a great option for busy individuals who need a quick and easy snack on the go or for athleteswho need sustained energy during exercise.The demand of functional food increasing day by day as the threat of non-communicable diseases increasing suchas diabetes, CVD and obesity. From the ancient time the use of medicinal food such as seeds of chia, millets andmultigrain has been seen to get different health benefits. Currently seeds are widely used for numerous healthbenefits. Seeds are well known for there high content of PUFA mainly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and fiber.These seeds are also rich source of polyphenols which further helps in protecting the body from free radicals.Furthermore, seeds are rich source of the fiber which helps in reducing cholesterol level, regulate bowel movementand reduce inflammation in the body. Demand for practical and convenient food increasing day by day due tobusy lifestyle. Food items that are convenient and can improve health are needed in today’s time. The seedsincorporated snack bar can be a convenient and practical food product with complete nutritional components.There are Some ingredients which can be used as the raw material to prepare an anti-diabetic snack bar. On thebasis of existing research, seed and modified cassava flour (MOCAF) can reduce blood sugar levels and that canreduce the risk of diabetes too.