Is Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy Actually Healthy? Nutrition Facts

Is Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy Really a Healthy Option?

With more people concerned about eating too much sugar, food brands have responded by releasing "zero sugar" versions of popular candies and chocolates. Hershey's zero sugar candy options provide the sweet taste without all the added sugar. But are they truly a healthy alternative? This article provides a detailed look at how Hershey's zero sugar candies are made, what ingredients they contain, and whether these sugar-free treats offer any nutritional or health benefits.

The Basics of Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy

Hershey's offers a line of candies that are labeled as containing zero sugar. Some of the popular options include:

• Hershey's Zero Sugar Milk Chocolate
• Hershey's Zero Sugar Almond Bar
• Jolly Rancher Zero Sugar
• Reese's Zero Sugar
• York Zero Sugar Peppermint Pattie

These products are sweetened with sugar substitutes instead of regular sugar. But they still provide the classic candy flavors people love from brands like Jolly Rancher, York, and Reese's.

Ingredients in Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy

So what's inside these "zero sugar" candies if not real sugar? Here is a closer look at some key ingredients:

Sugar Substitutes

Many Hershey's zero sugar candies contain sugar alcohols such as xylitol or erythritol as the primary sweetener instead of regular table sugar (sucrose). These sweeteners provide fewer calories than sugar and do not spike blood sugar levels as much.

Cocoa Butter

Cocoa butter is found in chocolate varieties of Hershey's zero sugar candy. It comes from cocoa beans and gives chocolate its creamy, luxurious mouthfeel.

Natural Flavors

To replicate the flavors people expect, natural and artificial flavors are added. These proprietary blends of extracts and essences provide mint, caramel, peanut butter, and other tastes.

Milk Products

Some options, like zero sugar chocolate bars, contain milk products like milk fat or skim milk to produce the expected milky flavor.

Benefits of Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy

Compared to Hershey's original sugar-filled candies, the zero sugar alternatives provide a few potential benefits:

• Fewer calories - Products sweetened with sugar alcohols rather than sucrose contain fewer calories per serving.
• Less impact on blood sugar - Sugar alcohols elicit a lower glycemic response compared to regular sugar.
• No "sugar crash" - The steadier energy release can help avoid spikes and crashes in energy levels.
• Tooth-friendly - Xylitol can actually help reduce cavities and strengthen enamel.

For people watching their sugar intake or living with diabetes, Hershey's zero sugar candies may offer a way to enjoy sweet flavors occasionally while controlling calories and carbohydrates.

Downsides of Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy

However, there are also some potential downsides to keep in mind:

• Gastrointestinal effects - Sugar alcohols can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea if eaten in large amounts.
• Not calorie-free - While lower in calories than sugar, sugar alcohols still provide calories that can add up with overconsumption.
• Effects on gut bacteria - Evidence suggests sugar substitutes may negatively impact beneficial gut bacteria.
• Lack of nutrients - Unlike fruit or other whole foods, zero sugar candy provides no beneficial vitamins, minerals, or antioxidants.

While sugar-free candies are free of added sugars, they are still highly processed with artificial ingredients. The lack of nutrients makes them an unhealthy choice to eat regularly or in large portions.

Are Hershey's Zero Sugar Candies Keto-Friendly?

The ketogenic or "keto" diet restricts carb intake to achieve ketosis for weight loss. With no added sugar and fewer carbs, Hershey's zero sugar candies can potentially fit into a keto eating plan. However, portions must be restricted to avoid overconsumption of calories and carbs.

Some keto dieters also recommend avoiding sugar alcohols. While they don't raise blood sugar significantly, even sugar alcohols can disrupt ketosis if consumed excessively. Those following a strict keto diet may want to be cautious with zero sugar candy options.

Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy and Diabetes

What about people with diabetes - are sugar-free candies a smart choice? The answer is complicated. While the sugar alcohols used in place of sucrose impact blood sugar less, they can still cause rises, especially if overeaten. Portion control is key.

Many health experts recommend those with diabetes focus on getting sweets from whole foods like fruit instead of processed candy. But Hershey's zero sugar products can potentially be incorporated carefully into an overall healthy diabetes diet plan.

The Healthiest Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy Options

Within Hershey's line of zero sugar candies, some varieties may be slightly better options than others if enjoyed in moderation. Here are a few of the healthier picks:

• Jolly Rancher Zero Sugar - Flavored hard candies are low calorie options. Just beware sticky fillings damaging dental work.
• Hershey's Zero Sugar Milk Chocolate - The classic chocolate bar contains antioxidants from cocoa and milk for calcium.
• York Zero Sugar Peppermint Pattie - Peppermint provides freshening flavor from an essential oil.

Overall, balance is key - be mindful of portions and enjoy Hershey's zero sugar candy occasionally as a treat alongside an otherwise nutritious diet for the healthiest approach.

The Verdict on Hershey's Zero Sugar Candy

Hershey's zero sugar candies can be an occasional treat for those limiting sugar due to the fewer calories and less glycemic impact. However, they provide minimal nutrition and the long-term impacts of sugar substitute consumption remain unclear. Moderation is key, and zero sugar candy should not replace whole foods in the diet. While a fine indulgence here and there, Hershey's sugar-free options remain a highly processed food without much nutritional value.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.