SPOKANE, Wash. -- Just like Halloween, Easter candy may linger around for a few weeks, you may want to think about this when filling up those baskets.
The American Heart Association said kids are sweet enough and to limit added sugars to less than 6 teaspoons daily for a healthy heart. The Easter bunny is probably not going to fill up the basket with kale, however some candies are better choices than others when it comes to their sugar content.
Peeps They are at the top of the list when it comes to sugar. Not only do they have zero nutritional value, basically they have three ingredients: Sugar, corn syrup and gelatin, turns out people prefer other candy these days. But for those of you who enjoy the marshmallow treat, they do make a sugar free version with sugar alcohol instead.
Jelly Beans are also exploding with sugar and it is very hard to eat just a few. However, if the kids love them, you may want to divide them up into little baggies a head of time.
Nutritionists say there are two different types of candy, those that are pure sugar like jelly beans and peeps and those that are a combination of fat and sugar like Cadbury Cream eggs. Even though they taste like heaven and pure sugar, nutritionist say go for that one candy that you really desire and the fat -sugar combination will keep you satisfied prefer candy that is individually wrapped.
Peanut M&Ms have a lot of sugar, but you get some healthy fats from the nuts.
Nutritionists all agree, having one too many bunnies will not hurt your diet. Here are some of their favorites for keeping the sugar under control:
Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs are the best bet if craving something sweet Sunday morning. A serving size is under 25 grams of sugar plus peanuts listed as an actual ingredient.
Lollipops are lower in sugar, will take a child longer to eat when compared with other candies and will therefore be more satisfying
Russell Stover Dark chocolate covered fruits, nuts, coconut eggs and Hershey Milk Chocolate candy kisses are more bang for your buck. They have more antioxidants and protein plus you will savor the individual pieces.
Rice crispy treats are a big hit with health experts. There are three ingredients, marshmallow, butter, cereal and you can wrap them individually.
Nothing says Easter like the Cadbury Bunny and Eggs? Even though they are high in calories and fat if you stick to portions you should be ok.
At the end of the day it is all about balance. Get creative. You can also fill up the baskets with small inexpensive toys like kites, coloring book and crayons, stickers, erasers and temporary tattoos.
The American Heart Association warns against introducing kids under two years old to added sugar.
You can get your child into the Easter spirit by dressing up for the holiday and filling their basket with soft stuffed animals.