Do you have a sweet tooth, but don’t want to compromise your health? Well, you might be surprised to know that there are some candy options out there that can actually provide some health benefits. Yes, you read that right! While we all know that candy can be high in sugar and unhealthy fats, there are some candy types that are healthier than others. In this article, we’ll be exploring what those healthier options are, that might just satisfy your sweet cravings without negatively impacting your overall health.
When it comes to choosing the healthiest candy, it all comes down to the ingredients. Avoiding candy loaded with sugar, artificial flavors, colors and hydrogenated oils is key. Instead, you should look for candy options that contain natural and organic ingredients that offer added nutritional benefits. Chocolate, for one, can be a healthy option as it contains antioxidants and minerals like iron and magnesium. Similarly, candy made with fruit juices and purees can be a natural source of vitamins and minerals that can benefit your body.
So, what are some of the healthiest candies out there? Some popular options include dark chocolate, fruit chews made with real fruit juices, organic candy made without artificial colors or flavors, and candy made with natural sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, and stevia. Whether you have a preference for sour, sweet, or chewy, there are healthy candy choices that can satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt. So next time you’re looking for a satisfying sugary snack, consider choosing one of these healthiest candy options. Your body will thank you later!
Low-Sugar Candy Options
If you have a sweet tooth but want to keep your sugar intake in check, there are plenty of low-sugar candy options available. These treats can satisfy your cravings without causing a spike in blood sugar levels or contributing to weight gain. Let’s take a look at some of the healthiest low-sugar candy options out there:
- Sugar-Free Gum: This classic treat is a great option for those looking to tame their sweet tooth without consuming extra calories or sugar. Chewing gum can also help freshen breath and aid in digestion.
- Dark Chocolate: While it contains some sugar, dark chocolate is a healthier candy option due to its antioxidants and potential blood pressure-lowering properties. Look for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids for maximum health benefits.
- Stevia-Sweetened Candies: Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from a plant, making it a great alternative to artificial sweeteners. There are a variety of candies available that are sweetened with stevia, such as lollipops, hard candies, and gummy bears.
It’s important to remember that even these low-sugar options should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Too many sweets, even if they don’t contain much sugar, can still lead to negative health effects. Always read nutrition labels and make informed choices about your candy consumption.
Dark Chocolate as a Healthier Alternative
When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, dark chocolate is a healthier alternative to traditional candy. While it still contains sugar and should be consumed in moderation, dark chocolate has been shown to provide some health benefits that other types of candy do not.
- Dark chocolate contains antioxidants called flavanols which can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Dark chocolate also contains fiber which can help maintain a healthy digestive system and aid in weight management.
- Compared to milk chocolate and other candy, dark chocolate generally contains less sugar and unhealthy fats, making it a better choice for those watching their calorie intake.
When selecting dark chocolate, aim for bars or candies with at least 70% cocoa content to ensure you are getting the most health benefits. Additionally, be cautious of added ingredients such as caramel or nougat which can increase sugar and calorie content.
| Brand | Cocoa Content | Sugar per Serving (g) | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lindt Excellence 70% | 70% | 5 | 200 |
| Green & Blacks Organic Dark 70% | 70% | 8 | 250 |
| Ghirardelli Intense Dark Midnight Reverie 86% | 86% | 3 | 170 |
Remember that while dark chocolate may offer some health benefits, it is still a treat and should be consumed in moderation. Enjoy a square or two after a meal or as a midday pick-me-up for a satisfying and healthier way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Candy with Fruit-Based Ingredients
For those with a sweet tooth who want to indulge without straying too far from healthy choices, candy with fruit-based ingredients are a great option. These candies are usually made with real fruits or fruit purees, providing some nutritional value along with the sweetness.
- Fruit Chews – Made with fruit puree, these chewy treats come in various flavors such as cherry, strawberry, and orange. They are often vegan, gluten-free, and contain no artificial colors or preservatives.
- Fruit Snacks – Similar to fruit chews, these bite-size snacks are made with real fruit concentrates and are often fortified with vitamins. They come in fun shapes and are perfect for snacking on the go.
- Dark Chocolate-Covered Fruit – A healthier alternative to traditional chocolate candies, these are made with dark chocolate and fruit such as cherries, oranges, or blueberries. Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidant properties and can provide some heart-healthy benefits when consumed in moderation.
It’s important to note that even though these candies contain natural ingredients, they should still be consumed in moderation as they may still contain added sugars. However, indulging in fruit-based candies can be a better option than traditional candies made with artificial flavors and colors.
| Candy | Ingredients | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit Chews | Fruit Puree, pectin, citric acid, sugar | 90 |
| Fruit Snacks | Fruit concentrates, sugar, corn syrup, gelling agents | 70 |
| Dark Chocolate-Covered Fruit | Dark chocolate, fruit | 120 |
In conclusion, choosing candy with fruit-based ingredients can be a healthier option compared to traditional candies made with artificial ingredients. They can still satisfy a sweet tooth while providing some nutritional value. However, they should still be consumed in moderation as they may contain added sugars.
Nutritious Candy Bars
If you have a sweet tooth but also value healthy eating, you don’t have to give up candy bars altogether. There are some candy bars that are more nutritious than others, featuring ingredients like nuts and dark chocolate that can offer some health benefits while satisfying your cravings.
- Kind Bars – Kind Bars are known for their whole nut and fruit ingredients that provide protein, fiber and antioxidants. They contain less sugar than typical candy bars and come in a variety of flavors. Some popular options include Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt and Almond & Coconut.
- GoMacro Bars – GoMacro Bars are organic, vegan and gluten-free bars that come in various flavors that feature ingredients like nuts, seeds, and fruits. They’re sweetened with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and not refined sugar. Plus, they’re a good source of protein and fiber.
- Larabars – Larabars are another vegan and gluten-free candy bar option made with only a few simple ingredients like nuts and dried fruit. They’re relatively low in sugar and also provide healthy fats and fiber. Some popular Larabar flavors include Cashew Cookie and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip.
When choosing a nutritious candy bar, make sure to check the label and look out for added sugars and ingredients that don’t align with your dietary needs.
Gluten-Free and Allergen-Free Candy
Candy is typically viewed as unhealthy due to its high sugar content. However, there are some healthier options available that are gluten-free and allergen-free for those with dietary restrictions. Here are five of the healthiest options.
- Unreal Dark Chocolate Gems: These colorful candy-coated chocolates are made with fair-trade and non-GMO ingredients. They are also gluten-free and free from major allergens including soy, dairy, and nuts.
- YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears: These gummy bears are made with real fruit juice and organic ingredients. They are also gluten-free and free from major allergens including soy, dairy, nuts, and wheat.
- Gimbal’s Fine Candies Jelly Beans: These jelly beans are certified gluten-free and free from major allergens including soy, dairy, nuts, and wheat. They are also made with real fruit juice and are available in a variety of flavors.
- Enjoy Life Dark Chocolate Minis: These individually-wrapped dark chocolate squares are made with only a few simple ingredients, including cocoa and cane sugar. They are also gluten-free and free from major allergens including soy, dairy, and nuts.
- Lemonheads: These tangy hard candies are gluten-free and free from major allergens including soy, dairy, and nuts. They are also fat-free and made with real lemon juice.
If you’re looking for even more options, many companies now offer gluten-free and allergen-free versions of traditional candy, such as Hershey’s chocolate bars and Skittles. Always be sure to read the ingredient labels and allergy warnings before consuming any candy.
| Candy | Is it Gluten-Free? | Is it Allergen-Free? |
|---|---|---|
| Unreal Dark Chocolate Gems | Yes | Free from soy, dairy, and nuts |
| YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears | Yes | Free from soy, dairy, nuts, and wheat |
| Gimbal’s Fine Candies Jelly Beans | Yes | Free from soy, dairy, nuts, and wheat |
| Enjoy Life Dark Chocolate Minis | Yes | Free from soy, dairy, and nuts |
| Lemonheads | Yes | Free from soy, dairy, and nuts |
Overall, there are plenty of gluten-free and allergen-free candy options available for those looking for a healthier treat. Be sure to check ingredient labels and allergy warnings before consuming any candy.
Vegan and Organic Candy Choices
If you’re concerned about animal welfare and your own health, then vegan and organic candy options are for you. Vegan-friendly candy is free from any animal products or byproducts, including gelatin, milk, or honey, while organic candy is made from sustainably sourced, natural ingredients without any artificial additives or preservatives.
- UnReal Candy: UnReal’s candies are made with all-natural, non-GMO and vegan-friendly ingredients. Their dark chocolate peanut butter cups are a healthier vegan alternative to the famous Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
- YumEarth Organics: YumEarth offers a range of organic, gluten-free, and vegan candies that are free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes, and flavors. Their organic gummy bears are a favorite among kids and adults alike.
- Surf Sweets: Surf Sweets is a candy company that specializes in organic, natural, non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly gummies. Their Gummy Worms are a fun and delicious organic alternative to traditional gummy candy.
Top 5 Healthiest Vegan and Organic Candies
To help you choose the best healthy candy option, we’ve selected the top 5 natural and vegan-friendly candies:
| Candy | Calories per Serving | Sugar | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| UnReal Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups | 200 | 11 grams | 14 grams |
| YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears | 70-80 | 14 grams | 0 grams |
| Surf Sweets Organic Gummy Worms | 110 | 11 grams | 0 grams |
| Alter Eco Dark Chocolate | 220 | 15 grams | 17 grams |
| Sour Raisins | 120 | 12 grams | 2 grams |
Whether you’re vegan or not, choosing organic and natural candies is a great way to enjoy a sweet treat without the added guilt. Always remember to indulge in moderation and read the ingredient list carefully before digging in.
Benefits of Moderation in Candy Consumption
Candy is a sweet indulgence that many people enjoy, but consuming too much of it can have negative effects on our health. It is important to practice moderation when it comes to candy consumption. Here are some benefits of moderating our candy intake:
- Prevents overconsumption of sugar: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to a variety of health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and tooth decay. Moderating candy intake can help prevent these issues.
- Allows for a balanced diet: Candy is not a necessary component of a healthy diet, but it can be a part of it if consumed in moderation. Enjoying candy in moderation can help us maintain a balanced diet and prevent overconsumption of other food groups.
- Makes candy more enjoyable: When we eat too much candy, we can become desensitized to its taste and begin to crave even sweeter treats. By moderating our candy intake, we can fully savor and appreciate the sweetness of each treat.
In addition to these benefits, moderating candy intake can also enhance our overall health and well-being. By consuming candy in moderation, we can prevent a sugar crash and maintain stable energy levels throughout the day. It can also prevent feelings of guilt or shame associated with overindulging in sweets.
| Candy Type | Serving Size | Calories | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Chocolate (70% cacao) | 1 oz. (about 2 squares) | 170 | 5 |
| Gummy Bears | 10 pieces | 87 | 16 |
| Skittles | 20 pieces | 61 | 14 |
When it comes to choosing the healthiest candy, dark chocolate with a high percentage of cacao is often the best option. It contains antioxidants and has less sugar than other candy types such as gummy bears or Skittles. However, we can still enjoy other types of candy in moderation by being aware of serving sizes and nutritional information.
What are the Healthiest Candy? FAQs
1. Are there any healthy candy options?
Yes, there are some healthier candy options available. Some candies are made with more natural, less processed ingredients, which can make them a better alternative to traditional candies with high amounts of artificial ingredients and added sugars.
2. What are some examples of healthier candy options?
Some examples of healthier candy options include dark chocolate (which is high in antioxidants and has less added sugar than milk chocolate), candy made with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and fruit snacks made with real fruit.
3. Are sugar-free candies healthier?
While sugar-free candies may seem like a healthier option, they often contain artificial sweeteners and other additives that can have negative health effects. It is important to read labels and choose candies made with natural ingredients as much as possible.
4. Can I still enjoy candy on a healthy diet?
Yes, you can still enjoy candy as part of a healthy diet in moderation. Choosing natural, less processed options and limiting portion sizes can help make candy a healthier treat.
5. Are there any health benefits to eating candy?
Eating candy in moderation can actually have some health benefits. Dark chocolate, for example, has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and can even help improve heart health.
6. Is it better to avoid candy altogether?
While avoiding candy altogether may be the best option for some people, it is not necessary for everyone. Enjoying candy in moderation can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, especially if you choose natural options and limit portion sizes.
7. What should I look for when choosing a healthier candy option?
When choosing a healthier candy option, look for candies made with natural ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or real fruit. Avoid candies with artificial ingredients, high amounts of added sugars, and hydrogenated oils.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article helped you learn a bit more about the world of healthier candy options. Remember, eating candy in moderation can be a part of a healthy lifestyle, and with the right choices, you can indulge in a sweet treat without feeling guilty. Thanks for reading, and make sure to check back for more helpful health tips and information.