5 Alternatives to Sugar-Based Chocolates and Candies for Kids

Regulating what kids eat daily is far more crucial than we realize. They are in the early stages of development and probably the most crucial stages of their lives – this is when we need to step in and make sure that they do not resort to unhealthy eating habits and patterns that adversely affect their mental health and physical health, at a later point in their lives.

Children love sugar. They love candies and chocolates that are sugar-based and quite frankly adults do too. But that doesn’t mean that one should consume them, unmonitored and unchecked.

Provide The Kids With These Alternatives – Keep Them Away From Sugar-Based Candies and Chocolates

Consuming excessive sugar from a very early age in life can lead to a higher body mass index later in life. Studies have been conducted that stand testimony to the same. It increases the chances of heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, cancer etc. Therefore, we have personally curated a list of healthier alternatives of sugar-based chocolates and candies that your kids can have without severe repercussions:

1. Fruit Bites

These are delectable snacks that are made with the goodness of real fruits. Most of the fruit bite products are all-natural and do not contain additives and preservatives. This means that they are not sugar-based candies that can harm the body or depreciate the health conditions in any way. Fruit Bites generally contain essential nutrients like Vitamins A, D, E, B12, B6, Niacin, iodine, zinc, etc. The best part about them is that they do not contain artificial flavoring or sweeteners that are detrimental to the body.

They are the right balance between healthy and tasty. Kids can easily accept this as a substitute for other sugar-based chocolates and candies. You can choose brands to get your stock of candies/chocolate alternatives consisting of real fruits.

2. Jaggery and Nuts

Jaggery and Nuts or Jaggery with Nuts is a really popular snack that people of all ages like to binge on. In all honesty, there aren’t that many snacks that are all-natural and have the same goodness and nutritional benefits as jaggery and nuts. Jaggery is a very rich source of iron and magnesium that helps regulate bodily functions, improves body immunity and keeps fertility-related problems at bay.

Nuts are rich sources of folic acid and protein that help in building body mass and boost the immune system as well. Also, nuts contain a high concentration of fiber that helps improve bowel movements and the digestion process.

3. Dried Raisins and Apricots

Everyone loves dried raisins and apricots. Kids love to nibble away at dried fruits and it is a much better alternative as compared to sugar-based chocolates and candies. Dried raisins, for example, are rich in essential minerals, vitamins and fiber. They provide the body with a lot of energy thanks to the carbohydrates they contain. When eaten in moderation, raisins can help keep you healthy. They are a rich source of iron that can help strengthen your bones and boost immunity.

Also, raisins help in the digestion process. Apricots contain high levels of antioxidants that flush out toxins from the body. They improve your skin health and contain essential minerals and vitamins that the body needs for nourishment. It is also a rich source of potassium that serves as an electrolyte for the body. Also, there is data that suggests that dried apricots protect your liver and improves your gut functioning.

4. Berries

One of the most popular snacking choices in the world, berries, is a great alternative for sugar-based candies and chocolates, both in terms of taste, variety and nutrition. And, kids love strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, grapes, raspberries, etc. They are packed with antioxidants that flush out toxins from the body.

Blueberries, raspberries and blackberries have the highest concentration of antioxidants in the berry family. Berries are a rich source of fiber, which means that they are exceptionally good in improving the digestion process and being rich in fiber, it also keeps you feeling full for longer, which means it also discourages binge eating habits in children. Essential nutrients and minerals like Vitamins K1 and C, Manganese and copper can be found in abundance in berries which is great for the nourishment of the body.

Berries also have really strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help bring down inflammatory markers in the body.

5. Dark Chocolate Coconut Chips

Sugar-based chocolates are quite unhealthy and promote several serious ailments. That is why parents discourage kids from eating too many sugar-based chocolates or candies. However, dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants which improve the health of the heart and promotes proper brain functioning. Coconuts, on the other hand, are rich sources of MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides).

For those who are not familiar with MCTs, they are a kind of fat. It boosts gut health and also helps in the loss of weight. Combining the bitter yet savory flavor of dark chocolate with the sweet and crunchy tang of coconut chips makes it a treat for the taste buds like no other.

These are the 5 best alternatives that you can provide your kids with. These will help steer them clear of sugar-based chocolates and candies, for their good.