If you're looking for a sweet treat that won't completely derail your diet, 1 cane (14 g) Peppermint Candy Canes may be a good option with only 55 calories per candy. These festive treats are a holiday staple and beloved by many. However, before indulging, it's important to understand what's inside and how they may affect your health.

Peppermint Candy Canes are made with sugar, corn syrup, and natural and artificial flavors. They are free from nuts and peanuts but contain wheat and soy. Each candy cane contains 14 grams of sugar and no fat or protein. On the plus side, they do contain small amounts of peppermint oil, which has been shown to have some health benefits.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information and potential benefits and risks of consuming Peppermint Candy Canes. We'll also share some creative ideas on how to incorporate them into your diet and some fun facts about these popular treats.

Calories in Peppermint Candy Canes

As mentioned, one 1 cane (14 g) Peppermint Candy Cane contains 55 calories. While this may seem high for a small candy, it's important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to treats like these. If you have a sweet tooth, allowing yourself the occasional indulgence is perfectly fine as long as it doesn't become a daily habit. It's also important to consider the sugar content in each candy cane. With 14 grams of sugar, that's nearly a tablespoon's worth of added sugar. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health concerns, so it's best to consume these treats in moderation.

Peppermint Candy Canes ingredients

Peppermint Candy Canes are made with just a few simple ingredients: sugar, corn syrup, and natural and artificial flavors. The candy cane's signature red and white stripes are created by adding food coloring to the candy mixture, forming a stiff dough, and then twisting and pulling it into the iconic cane shape. While Peppermint Candy Canes are generally safe for most people, it's important to note that they do contain wheat and soy. If you have a wheat or soy allergy, these treats should be avoided or enjoyed with caution.

Peppermint Candy Canes serving size

One 1 cane (14 g) Peppermint Candy Cane is considered one serving size. It's important to keep this in mind when enjoying these treats as it's easy to consume more than one at a time. If you're looking for a way to portion control your candy consumption, consider breaking off small pieces of the cane instead of eating it in one go. You can also opt for smaller candy canes or peppermint candies that come in individual wrappers to help control your intake.

The benefits of Peppermint Candy Canes

While Peppermint Candy Canes are not necessarily a superfood, they do contain small amounts of peppermint oil, which has been shown to have some health benefits. Peppermint oil has been known to aid in digestion, relieve headaches, and reduce nausea. The scent of peppermint oil has also been shown to improve alertness and memory. However, it's important to note that these benefits come from the peppermint oil itself and not the candy cane. Consuming large amounts of sugar can actually have negative effects on digestion and cause headaches, so it's always best to consume these treats in moderation.

Are Peppermint Candy Canes gluten-free?

Unfortunately, Peppermint Candy Canes are not gluten-free. They contain wheat, which can be a problem for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. However, there are alternatives on the market that are gluten-free, so be sure to check the ingredients list before making your purchase.

How to include Peppermint Candy Canes in your diet

Peppermint Candy Canes are a fun addition to any holiday celebration, but they can also be included in your daily diet in small amounts. Here are a few ideas:

• Crush a candy cane and sprinkle it over oatmeal or yogurt for a festive breakfast.
• Use crushed peppermint in your hot cocoa or coffee for a minty twist.
• Chop up candy canes and add them to your favorite cookie or brownie recipes.
• Melt candy canes down with chocolate and use as a dip for fruit or pretzels.
• Include small pieces of candy cane as a garnish for cocktails or mocktails.

Just make sure to watch your sugar intake and consume in moderation!

Health risks of consuming Peppermint Candy Canes

While Peppermint Candy Canes can be a delicious treat, they do come with some potential health risks. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• High sugar content can lead to weight gain and increased risk of diabetes and other health concerns.
• Consuming large amounts of sugar can also cause tooth decay and cavities.
• Candy canes may contain allergens like wheat and soy, which can be dangerous for those with allergies.
• Peppermint oil can cause heartburn or other digestive issues in some people.

If you have any concerns about consuming Peppermint Candy Canes, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Peppermint Candy Canes and weight loss

While Peppermint Candy Canes are not a magical weight loss tool, they can be a good option for those trying to cut calories. With only 55 calories per candy cane, they can satisfy a sweet tooth without derailing your diet. It's important to note, however, that too much added sugar can lead to weight gain and other health concerns, so consume in moderation.

Different ways to use Peppermint Candy Canes

While Peppermint Candy Canes are delicious on their own, they can also be used in a variety of creative ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Crush candy canes and mix with melted white chocolate to create peppermint bark.
• Add crushed candy canes to your homemade holiday popcorn for a festive twist.
• Use candy canes to make DIY holiday decor like wreaths and ornaments.
• Use candy canes as a stirrer for your hot cocoa or coffee.

The possibilities are endless!

Peppermint Candy Canes fun facts

Peppermint Candy Canes have a rich history and a few fun facts you may not know. Here are a few to impress your friends and family at your next holiday gathering:

• The first candy canes were made in Germany in the 1600s and were solid white with no stripes. The stripes were added in the 19th century.
• Candy canes were used as Christmas tree decorations in the 1800s, but it wasn't until the 20th century that they became a popular holiday treat.
• The world's largest candy cane was made in Switzerland in 2011 and measured over 51 feet long!

So, the next time you enjoy a Peppermint Candy Cane, you can impress your friends and family with your newfound knowledge.