It seems that no matter how much is written, broadcast or telecast about the self-destruction we are wreaking with our dietary practices, we insist upon adopting eating habits which are worse, rather than better. With all the nutrition which we will ever need contained in the proper foods, we insist upon eating more and more junk, and then looking to other junk to supply us with the missing nutrition. Instead, we are jiving ourselves and poisoning ourselves at the same time.

In a recent Chicago Tribune article, written by staff reporter Bob Condor, the headline warns, "Take care when bellying up to sports nutrition bars." An accompanying color photograph showed, as an example, five bars, bearing the names "Luna, Balance Gold, Met-Rx, Gatorade and Genisoy."

A prominent dietitian is quoted as saying that these bars are better for you than regular candy bars, but are "not appropriate weight loss." The same expert points out that the heavy iron content in some of the bars may be placing some men at cardiovascular risk, noting that too much iron can overtax the heart.

Reference is made to recent tests conducted by Consumer Lab, the results of which may be obtained simply by logging on to "www.consumerlab.com." Reportedly 30 bars were tested, and, according to the article, "A disturbing 60 percent did not pass the test, providing inaccurate information about one or more ingredient categories. The most common inaccuracy was the stated carbohydrates." Fifteen bars, said the report, contained "hidden carbohydrates, some in large amounts. One bar claimed two grams and actually tested for 22 grams. ..."

"Although all of the tested bars were accurate for protein content," the report said, "there were discrepancies in sodium and fat contents. Seven bars surpassed sodium claims, including four that contained two to three times as much. For example, one bar listed 125 milligrams but actually tested for 285 milligrams."

The writer concludes that "...sometimes a piece of fruit and cup of yogurt or a couple of handfuls of trail mix can be a less expensive and equally effective option."

When you come right down to it, you just can�t beat fresh fruits and vegetables.