Candy In Moderation Has Health Benefits

BATON ROUGE, La.Individuals who consume candy in moderation may weight less, have lower body mass indices and waist circumferences, and have decreased levels of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome, according to a new study published in Nutrition Research. The findings support candys role as an occasional treat within a healthy lifestyle.

Researchers at Louisiana State University Agricultural Center examined the association of candy consumption (broken into three categories:  total candy, chocolate or sugar) on total calories, nutrient intake, diet quality, weight status, CVD risk factors and metabolic syndrome in more than 15,000 U.S. adults 19 years of age and older based on 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data.

Results showed while candy contributed modestly to caloric intake on days it was consumed, there was no association of total candy intake to increased weight/BMIsuggesting over time, consumers were able to balance longer-term caloric intake. The researchers said this is an important finding because the new 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) emphasize the concept that calorie balance over time is the key to weight management.

The study also found candy consumers had a 14-percent decreased risk of elevated diastolic blood pressure and lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels than non-candy consumers. Chocolate candy consumers had better values of lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), specifically a 19-percent decreased risk of a lower HDL-C. Chocolate candy consumer also had a 15-percent reduced risk of metabolic syndrome.

Commenting on the stud, Alison Bodor, senior vice president of public policy and advocacy, National Confectioners Association, said: "Candy is a unique treat that can provide moments of joy and happiness. Consumers should feel confident that candy, consumed in moderation within a diet balanced with regular physical activity, can be part of a healthy, happy lifestyle."