Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, so I don't take kindly to the killjoys who try to scare us about all the calories and fat in candy. After all, it's just one day a year.
But now comes the post-Halloween candy glut, and we need to heed their warnings. It's that time when people take their leftover candy (and perhaps part of their kids' loot too) to the office to unload on, er share with, co-workers.
For many of us, that big bowl of candy by the water cooler can be impossible to resist. If you're like me, every time you walk by it, you grab a piece or two, thinking "These are tiny. What's the harm?"
Well, the answer is that the calories in those mini candies can quickly add up. My pal Hungry Girl has done a little digging and compiled some scary stats. Eat just eight Hershey's Kisses, three Nestle Crunch Fun Size Bars, or a couple of Reese's Snack Size Peanut Butter Cups, and you'll instantly get 200 calories. Do that a few times a day, and you'll soon be packing on pounds. Check here for the complete list.
Research shows that, not surprisingly, we consume more if the candy is in a clear container that allows us to see the goodies. As this video segment reveals, the candy's location can also make a difference. The easier it is to reach, the more we tend to eat.
Unfortunately, if it's candy I like--meaning pretty much anything chocolate--putting it out of reach still doesn't seem to deter me much. My only hope is that my co-workers will come in with treats that don't tempt me. Bring on the Skittles and Sweetarts!
