Saturday, May 14, 2011

Moderate Amounts of Candy Cut Diabetes Risk

Eating moderate amounts of candy daily may reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome such as diabetes by 15 percent and lower body mass index compared to individuals who do not eat candy, according to a study published in the journal Nutrition Research.

Researchers at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center analyzed more than 15,000 diet surveys taken among U.S. adults between 1999 and 2004. Among respondents, only 20 percent said they consumed candy. Those who consumed candy had a slightly lower BMI than non-candy eaters—27.7 versus 28.2. For the study, "moderate" consumption was defined as 1.3 ounces or two "fun-size" packets of plain M&Ms, which total 176 calories and 24 grams of carbohydrates.

The study, co-sponsored by the National Confectioners Association and the USDA, also found the major food contributors to obesity include non-candy items such as sugary sodas, extra-large restaurant portions, baked goods and chips that people consume in far larger quantities than candy. The also said people who consume moderate amounts of candy tend to exercise more to make up for their sugar consumption and offset any ill effects from eating sweets.

Sources:

Diabetes Health: Prediabetes Sweet Tooth Doesn’t Always Lead to Weight Gain

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