Research done at Ohio State shows that energy bars used as meal replacements may actually inhibit the body’s ability to burn fat.

The study conducted by Steven R. Hertzler, assistant professor of medical dietetics in the School of Allied Medical Professions, shows energy bars are not lowering the body’s insulin levels as much as they claim.

Hertzler said companies declare glucose and insulin levels will be decreased by equal amounts after eating the bars.

“People spend a lot of money on these bars, and they should know that energy bars aren’t going to create magical hormonal solutions that normal foods can’t,” Hertzler said.

Holly Wagner of University Relations, who authored the report about the study, said the level of insulin is important because higher levels of insulin prevent fats from being burned.

The Atkins Advantage Bar, the Power Bar and the Balance Bar were tested in the 20-person study. The subjects fasted for twelve hours and were then allowed to eat. Five different “meals” consisting of white bread, chicken, the Atkins Advantage Bar, the Balance Bar and a high carbohydrate Power Bar. Ten minutes after eating, their insulin and glucose levels were measured.

These readings were compared to the readings taken from subjects consuming white bread.

The Atkins Advantage Bar was created by the Atkins Nutritional company to be used with its low carbohydrate diet plan.

“In theory, you lower insulin by reducing carbohydrates, and it causes hormonal change that reduces fat,” Hertzler said.

The study shows that the Atkins Bar does reduce glucose levels by 71 percent, but it only reduces insulin by 26 percent. The Power Bar increased glucose by 4 percent and insulin by 73 percent.

The Balance Bar, which is still a large factor in the Zone diet, is based on the 40 percent carbohydrate, 30 percent fat and 30 percent protein plan. The Balance Bar is considered to have a moderate amount of carbohydrates. Results of the research show the Balance Bar lowered glucose levels by 50 percent and increased insulin by 35 percent.

Hertzler said carbohydrates and protein together increase insulin.

Of the three bars, none of them reduced insulin and glucose by equal amounts.

“Companies make these claims but have no evidence to back them up,” Hertzler said.

Hertzler suggests eating plenty of fruits and vegetables to lose weight, though no subjects were weighed during or after testing.