### Can People with Diabetes Enjoy Candy? Yes, But Choose Wisely! Having diabetes doesn't mean you have to completely give up on candy. According to experts, it's all about making smart choices and enjoying treats in moderation. #### Think of Candy as Dessert, Not a Snack Rainie Robinson, RD, CDCES, suggests treating candy as a dessert rather than a snack. This mindset helps in consuming smaller portions, especially after a meal when you're already feeling full. #### Sugar-Free Isn't Always Better You don't necessarily need to opt for sugar-free candies, which often contain sugar alcohols like xylitol and erythritol that can upset your stomach. #### Moderation is Key The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting added sugars to less than 10% of daily calories. For a 2,000-calorie diet, that's no more than 200 calories from added sugar. For people with diabetes, it's crucial to monitor blood sugar levels before and after eating candy. #### How Carbs in Candy Affect Blood Sugar Sugar starts to digest as soon as it hits your tongue, quickly raising blood sugar levels. This is why small amounts of candy can be effective for treating low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). However, if your blood sugar is already high, it's best to avoid high-carb foods, including candy. #### Best Types of Candy for People with Diabetes Many fun-size candies contain around 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, which is often enough to raise low blood sugar without causing a crash. Here are some popular miniature candies to consider: - Fun-size Snickers - Miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cups - Fun-size M&M's Remember, portion control is essential. Stick to fun-size portions and avoid going back for more. #### Final Tips - Always check your blood sugar levels before and after eating candy. - If you're insulin-dependent, you may need additional insulin to correct high blood sugar levels. - Enjoy candy in moderation to avoid feeling deprived or experiencing a sugar crash later. By making mindful choices, people with diabetes can still enjoy the occasional sweet treat without compromising their health.