How can candy get you sick?

1. Sugar Overload:

* Cavities: Eating too much sugary candy can lead to tooth decay. The sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth, which produce acid that erodes tooth enamel.

* Stomach Upset: A sudden surge of sugar can cause stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.

* Blood Sugar Spikes and Crashes: Consuming large amounts of sugar can lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar, followed by a crash, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.

2. Food Allergies:

* Some candies contain common allergens like nuts, milk, soy, and wheat. If you have an allergy to any of these ingredients, eating candy containing them can trigger a reaction, ranging from mild symptoms like hives to severe anaphylaxis.

3. Artificial Colors and Flavorings:

* Some people are sensitive to artificial food dyes and flavorings. These can cause headaches, hyperactivity, and digestive problems.

* Artificial colors and flavorings are also suspected of being linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, but research in this area is ongoing.

4. Bacterial Contamination:

* Candy that is improperly stored or handled can become contaminated with bacteria. This can lead to food poisoning with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

5. Overconsumption:

* Even healthy candy can cause problems if you eat too much of it. Candy is generally high in calories and sugar, so overindulging can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

It's important to remember that candy can be part of a healthy diet in moderation. Choose candy with natural ingredients whenever possible, avoid sugary candies with artificial colors and flavors, and be mindful of portion sizes.