Sweet treats are everywhere during special occasions like Valentine's Day, Easter, and Halloween. It's hard to resist indulging in candy, but moderation is key. Amy Gorin, RDN, owner of Plant Based with Amy, suggests having an action plan to enjoy candy in a balanced way.
Did you know that genetics might make you crave candy? Planning for these indulgences can actually help you maintain healthy eating habits. So go ahead and embrace the sweetness, but do it smartly.
Here are some tips on including candy in your healthy diet:
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Store it strategically: Keep candy out of sight, like in the back of your pantry or freezer. When it's not in your face, you're less tempted to eat it constantly.
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Plan for indulgence: Enjoy candy as part of a planned dessert, rather than mindlessly snacking on it while doing other things. After a week, get rid of any leftover candy to avoid mindless consumption.
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Choose what you truly enjoy: Regardless of the best and worst choices, go for the candy that you genuinely love. Don't let labels or calorie counts sway you. The best candy choice is the one you can savor in moderation.
Now, let's dive into the healthiest and least healthy candies according to Gorin and Mia Syn:
The 6 Healthiest Candy Options:
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UnReal Milk Chocolate Gems: These gems are impressive with their natural coloring and lack of artificial flavors. Stick to the mini bags for a perfect single serving.
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Endangered Species Dark Chocolate Bites: These low-sugar chocolates contain a high level of cocoa, which may benefit heart health when consumed in moderation.
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Peanut M&M's: With peanuts providing protein, fiber, and good fats, these M&M's can help prevent blood sugar spikes and overindulging.
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Snickers: The fun-size Snickers bar, with its filling protein, is satisfying and contains less sugar compared to other pure sugar candies.
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Reese's Peanut Butter Cups: This combo of protein and a small amount of fiber makes it a good choice. Single cups make it easier to satisfy your sweet tooth in moderation.
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Blow Pop: For non-chocolate lovers, Blow Pops have less sugar than many other candies and the gum center provides longer enjoyment.
Remember, it's all about finding a balance and enjoying your favorite candies in moderation.
