In the U.S., over half a million pounds of Halloween candy are purchased each year, and the average consumption per person is the equivalent of 220 teaspoons of sugar. It’s easy to see how this excessive consumption occurs just by looking at the label on candy corn, which contains the equivalent of 6 teaspoons of sugar in a single serving of only 19 pieces.
Sugar in its natural form, such as that found in fruit, isn’t unhealthy when eaten in moderation. Yet when it’s ingested in processed foods such as candy, and in greater quantities, it can have far reaching adverse effects on health.
In the short term, as many people know, candy provides only empty calories, leading to weight gain, and raising insulin levels. The flood of sugar into the bloodstream triggers the release of insulin, which a healthy body uses to keep blood sugar regulated.
The unwelcomed trick is that persistent elevated insulin levels increase the risk for disease, encouraging the storage of fat, and elevating triglycerides, both of which are linked to cardiovascular disease. Additionally, in the long term, consuming excessive sugar has been linked not only to obesity and heart disease, but to cancer, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome, dementia, and depression. That’s not a treat for anyone!
In fact, recent studies have found that sugar feeds cancer cells, promoting growth and spread. Another has discovered that excessive sugar consumption can overload and damage the liver, leading to a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
So, although one piece of candy may not lead to immediate severe health problems, the issue may be that it’s very easy for one piece to become a binge, or a habit that can be hard to break. However, with a little creativity it’s possible to celebrate the holiday fun without the sugar.
However, with a little creativity, it’s possible to celebrate the holiday fun without the sugar.
So, to avoid the slippery slope that just one piece of Halloween candy might trigger, consider healthy alternatives to sugary sweets, such as CardioMender, MD Low Carb, High Protein Bars and High Protein Coated Soy Snacks. By cutting up your favorite protein bars into bite-sized pieces or savoring each piece of our coated soy snacks, you’ll enjoy the festivities without the frustration.
CardioMender,MD Weight Loss Specialists is South Florida’s most trusted medically supervised weight loss program. We provide customized, safe, rapid weight loss and the means to keep it off. At CardioMender, MD a doctor is ALWAYS available. Start losing weight today, under the supervision of Chief Medical Officer Barry H. Schiff, MD, a board certified, 35-year veteran, Internist and Board-Certified Cardiologist.
To find out more about how we can help you reach your goals using proven strategies, please visit us at www.cardiomenderweightloss.com or call us at (954) 628-3802 to set up your appointment today.
