Loving the BITE: Healthy Halloween Candy

27
Oct
2011

Candy on the brain?  If you didn’t before, you probably do now.  But never fear, as we approach Halloween, and all the candy that comes with it, I have an easy recipe for a sweet treat that features an incredible SuperFood: Ginger.  Yes, this treat is a treat (I didn’t take out all the sugar or anything).  It is sweet.  But, the added sweetness doesn’t negate the wonderful goodness and nutrients found in the key ingredient.

If you’re gonna go sweet this next week, do it with some phytochemicals in tow…

Recipe of the week: Simple Candied Ginger

(adapted from http://www.thekitchn.com/thekitchn/diy-recipe/diy-recipe-crystallized-ginger-069125)

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar, plus extra sugar for coating
  • 1 cup peeled and sliced ginger (use fresh ginger that’s firm, not spongy and slice it any way you like – both 1/8” coin-shaped or strips work well)

Instructions:

Combine water and 1 1/2 cups sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

Add ginger, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.

With a slotted spoon, transfer ginger to a wire rack (set over a pan or dish so your counter doesn’t get sticky).

Let stand until dry, and then roll slices in additional sugar.

Store in an airtight container for up to three months.

Comments:

Any readers who were kids or teens in the ‘80s most likely remember the urban myths about razors in the Halloween candy, right?  Of course, this led to less and less homemade Halloween handouts, and more over-priced, store-bought, junk candy.  Don’t get me wrong; at the time, I was happy to see the popcorn balls vanish and the Snickers fill my plastic pumpkin.  But now, many years, some experience and education, and one nutrition practice later, and I see the value in some good ol’ fashioned homemade treats.   So, while you might not hand these out at the door, you can at least keep these nutrient-packed, delicious treats handy at any parties, candy swaps, or office get-togethers.

Yes, I know it’s a lot of sugar.  But, the ginger underneath will give you these benefits:

  • Anti-inflammatory nutrients called gingerols
  • Anti-cancer nutrients that may inhibit colorectal cancer cell growth and cause ovarian cancer cell death
  • Gastrontestinal relievers and aides
  • Arthritis and arthritic-induced pain and swelling relief
  • An immune boost!

Every once in a while, you should give into your sweet tooth, especially if the sweet treat treats your body sweet.  Then, cycle it off!

Fuel Your Ride.  Nourish Your Body. 

Enjoy Your Ride

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4 Responses to “ Loving the BITE: Healthy Halloween Candy ”

  1. Pat B on October 27, 2011 at 1:00 pm

    I saw your Facebook post about America’s Toothfairy and then found the link to this recipe.  I’m not a cyclist and haven’t been to your website before but I wanted to leave a comment saying how proud I am that you’ve taken the time and energy to promote such a worthwhile cause.  Even cyclists need to think about their teeth, and the teeth of their children.  Well done.

    • Darryl is Loving the Bike on October 27, 2011 at 3:07 pm

      Hi Pat, and thanks for dropping by our website.  Yes, today’s post fits in very nicely with the campaign from America’s Toothfairy and we’re happy to help them out.  We hope to see you over here again in the future.  We are a cycling website…but we’re a cycling lifestyle website and many times have posts, stories, and information that appeals to anyone.

  2. Suzanne on October 27, 2011 at 12:00 pm

    Thank you for the healthy alternative Kelli.  I’m always guaranteed to find something helpful in these Loving the bite recipes.

    • Kelli Myers Jennings on October 27, 2011 at 12:29 pm

      You’re very welcome Suzanne.  I hope you enjoy the Candied Ginger!  Happy Halloween!

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Sugar Alternatives for Energy and Hydration

Question: I am using the homebrew sugar formulations (sometimes added to green tea).  I am also trying to wean myself off 1/2 dose adrenalean “lip tonic delivery system” (biorhythm brand- caffeine, hoodia g, synephrine, yohimbe) capsule for energy.

My question is other than juice, can you suggest modifications in lieu of table sugar for energy and hydration.

Answer:

Both raw/organic honey or agave can work great in the homebrew (substitute in the same quantities for the sugar, or to taste), but you do have to shake well in order to make sure they don’t settle out.  Have you tried either of these?  Also, make sure to use at least the minimum amount of salt recommended in the homebrew as the temps rise, you need the sodium replacement if you’re sweating.

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Please send us your questions for our Expert Sports Nutritionist, Kelli Jennings to “Ask the Sports Nutritionist“. Kelli Jennings is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for healthy eating, wellness, & sports nutrition. For more information go to www.apexnutritionllc.com.

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