Candy is Not the Obesity Culprit

BATON ROUGE, La.Children and adolescents who eat candy weigh approximately 20% less, compared to those who dont indulge in sugary treats, according to a new study published in journal Food & Nutrition Research. The findings suggest candy eaters can successfully navigate the "calories in, calories out," balance over time.

Researchers examined the association of candy consumption on intakes of total energy, fat, and added sugars; diet quality; weight/adiposity parameters; and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in 11,182 U.S. children aged 2 to 13 years and adolescents aged 14 to 18 years participating in the 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

They found while the children and adolescent candy consumers had slightly higher intakes of total energy and added sugars, they were 22% and 26%, respectively, less likely to be overweight or obese than non-candy consumers.

Carol O'Neil, PhD, MPH, LDN, RD, cautioned the results of the study should not be construed. Candy should not replace nutrient-dense foods in the diet; it is a special treat and should be enjoyed in moderation," she said.

Data also revealed C-reactive protein (CRP) was actually lower in sugar candy consumers. There were no other associations between candy consumption and cardiovascular risk factors, including no difference in blood pressure or blood lipid levels (a cholesterol indicator).

Diet quality was measured by the Healthy Eating Index 2005. Overall, there was no difference in diet quality in candy consumers compared with non-consumers; however, overall diet quality was very poor in all groups, regardless of whether candy was consumed.  

Commenting on the study, Alison Bodor, senior vice president of public policy and advocacy, National Confectioners Association, said: Candy is a fun part of children's livesas a treat, in celebrations and for holidays. It's not intended to replace nutrient-dense foods in the diet, but it certainly can provide moments of happiness within the context of a healthy lifestyle."