Advice to practice ‘‘moderation’’ in eating conveys that
reasonable amounts of specific foods or beverages can fit
into healthful meal patterns. However, interpretation of
moderation varies widely between both health professionals
and consumers. Evidence suggests that candy can have a
place in an overall lifestyle that supports health, wellness,
and happiness. Recognizing the importance of managing
calories, a proposed definition for consuming candy in moderation
offers realistic and practical advice for individuals
wishing to include confections within the context of a
healthful diet and lifestyle. Quantifying candy in moderation
is proposed as a range of up to 50 to 100 calories per
day depending on energy needs. This amount falls within
dietary guidance from leading health authorities for calories
from added sugars and fats. The purpose of this article
was to summarize current intakes of candy, examine the
potential role of candy in health and well-being, and provide
support for a proposed definition of ‘‘candy in moderation’’
for those who choose to consume confections,
including chocolates, hard and chewy candy, and chewing
gum.