Now that the Easter holiday is over, have you noticed an increase on the scale when you step on? In 2011, Americans consumed 7 billion pounds of Easter candy. There are almost 90 million chocolate easter bunnies produced each year. A typical 5 oz. milk chocolate bunny contains approximately 170 calories, 99 calories are from fat, 63 calories from carbohydrates, and 8 calories from protein. That is from one bunny and most people consume several at once. The other favorite candy at Easter is Jelly Belly jellybeans. There are 4 calories per jellybean and the serving size is typically 25. That equates to 100 calories in your daily caloric intake. It is estimated that Americans consume 16 billion jellybeans at Easter. That is enough jellybeans that if lined up end to end would circle the globe 3 times. Our society has become increasingly more dependent on sugar consumption in their diet. This has led to an increase in the risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
It is estimated that children consume an average of more than 5 and 1/2 pounds of chocolate over the Easter holiday. That equates to 12, 870 calories and 650 grams of fat, which is deemed as completely acceptable because it’s a holiday. What has happened to consuming things in moderation? Why must a child consume all of that candy and chocolate before eating a well-balanced meal? If you are a forward-thinking parent and your child gets a TON of candy you might want to donate the unopened wrapped candy to a shelter or someone less fortunate. As Americans, it seems that we over-indulge in everything from Easter candy to alcohol. I think if we took a more modest approach to our habits, we might be a bit better off as a society. Besides, when is the last time someone ran out of candy or alcohol and wasn’t able to EVER get any more? Food for thought, I think that balance in all aspects of life is the best approach whether it comes to work, family, friends, or your nutritional protocol. If you need help with your nutritional program, contact us at 610 334-4120.