As a kid, I loved nougat. I remember getting my hands on a chewy, delicious piece of nougat, and savoring it for as long as possible.
It was my favorite treat, and I would beg my parents to buy it for me whenever we went grocery shopping.
As I grew older, I started to wonder whether nougat was healthy or not.
I did some research and found some surprising facts about this beloved candy.
Today, I’m going to share them with you. So let’s dig in!
Contents
Is Nougat Healthy?
Nougat can be healthy, assuming you eat it in moderation and opt for a brand that uses whole, limited and preferable ingredients.
Nevertheless, some brands and products of nougat definitely healthier than others, as we shall see in the following few sections.
But first, why can this high calorie, high sugar treat be good for you at all?
Let’s find out!
Why Nougat Can Be Healthy For You
When eaten in moderation, nougat does provide some positive health benefits as it contains healthy fats, proteins and fibers.
Due To Certain Ingredients
Nougat is made from sugar, honey, and nuts. It is a high-calorie treat, but it does have some health benefits.
Nuts, which are a key ingredient in nougat, are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
They can help lower cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.
Honey, another key ingredient in nougat, is also a healthier alternative to sugar.
It has a lower glycemic index, which means that it doesn’t cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Honey is also antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, making it a great natural remedy for sore throats and coughs.
In addition to nuts and honey, some nougat varieties may also contain dried fruits like cranberries or cherries. These fruits are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The Mood-Enhancing Benefits
Apart from the health benefits of the individual ingredients in nougat, another reason why nougat can be good for you is the fact that it can be a source of enjoyment and pleasure.
Eating something you enjoy can positively affect your mood, and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
When consumed in moderation, nougat can be a great way to indulge your sweet tooth and satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty.
In summary, while the health benefits of nougat may be limited, the pleasure and enjoyment it can bring to your life should not be underestimated.
Eating nougat in moderation can be a part of a balanced diet and a source of joy and social connection.
When Nougat Can Be Unhealthy
Too much nougat can be bad for you due to its high calorie, specifically sugar content. Also, it can be bad for your teeth due to its chewy nature.
When It Is Consumed In Excess
While nougat does have some health benefits, it is important to remember that it is still a candy.
It is high in sugar and calories, and should be consumed in moderation. Eating too much nougat (or any candy) can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
It’s important to limit your intake of sugary foods like nougat and balance them with nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables.
If It Contains Additives Like Preservatives or Artificial Flavors
Additionally, some varieties of nougat may contain additives like preservatives or artificial flavors.
These ingredients can cause allergic reactions, digestive issues, and other health problems. To avoid these additives, choosing nougat made with natural, whole-food ingredients is best.
Potential Allergies
Lastly, some people may need to avoid nougat altogether due to dietary restrictions.
For example, nougat typically contains nuts, which can be a problem for those with nut allergies.
It also contains honey, which is not suitable for strict vegans.
If you have dietary restrictions or concerns about consuming nougat, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
Healthiest Brands of Nougat
Nougat brands that use natural ingredients with minimal additives tend to be the healthiest.
When it comes to choosing the healthiest brand of nougat, it’s important to look for options made with natural, whole-food ingredients and minimal additives.
Some brands that fit this description include:
- Torrone di Cremona: This Italian brand of nougat is made with high-quality ingredients like Italian honey and Piedmont hazelnuts. It contains no preservatives or additives, and has a soft, chewy texture.
- Nutty Steph’s: This Vermont-based company makes nougat using organic honey, nuts, and spices. Their nougat is free from preservatives and artificial colors, and comes in a variety of flavors like honey lavender and ginger cashew.
- The Nougat Shop: This South African brand of nougat is made with all-natural ingredients like honey, almonds, and cranberries. It contains no preservatives or artificial colors, and has a soft, fluffy texture.
When choosing a brand of nougat, be sure to read the ingredients list and nutrition label to make an informed decision.
Least Healthy Brands of Nougat
Sadly, the most popular and famous nougat brands tend so be the least healthy, like my favorite, Toblerone.
On the other hand, some brands of nougat are less healthy due to their high sugar and additive content. Some brands to watch out for include:
- Toblerone: While this popular brand of nougat is delicious, it also contains a lot of sugar and calories. One serving of Toblerone (three triangles) contains 190 calories and 21 grams of sugar.
- Milky Way: This American brand of nougat candy bar is made with high fructose corn syrup, partially hydrogenated oils, and artificial flavors. It’s high in sugar and calories, and contains few beneficial ingredients.
- Mars Bar: This classic candy bar contains nougat, caramel, and milk chocolate, and is high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
If you want to enjoy nougat in moderation, it’s best to choose brands made with natural, whole-food ingredients and minimal additives.
Healthier Alternatives to Nougat
Nougat is quite unique, but there are still some similar candies out there when it comes to texture and flavor whilst remaining relatively healthy.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to nougat, there are a few options to consider:
Butter Cups
Specifically those made from nut butter and dark chocolate.
They are high in healthy fats and protein, and have a similar texture to nougat.
Fruit and Nut Bars
Another alternative is fruit and nut bars, which are made from dried fruit, nuts, and seeds.
These bars are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, and come in a variety of flavors like blueberry almond and cherry cashew.
Homemade Nougat
Lastly, you can also consider making your own nougat using natural, whole-food ingredients.
Homemade nougat can be a fun and delicious way to indulge your sweet tooth while controlling the quality of ingredients.
There are many recipes available online that use natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup, as well as nutrient-dense ingredients like almonds and pistachios.
Lastly
Nougat is a candy that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
It contains some beneficial ingredients like nuts and honey, but is also high in sugar and calories.
When choosing a nougat brand, it is important to read the ingredients list and nutrition label to make an informed decision.
And if you are looking for a candy alternative to nougat, many other delicious options exist to satisfy your sweet tooth.
FAQs
Is nougat more fattening than chocolate?
Nougat can be more fattening than chocolate, depending on the brand, ingredients and how much consumed. That being said, chocolate does tend to be more fattening for the same quantity consumed.
Hello, I’m Matthew, a candy expert and enthusiast with over a decade of experience in the candy industry. My passion for candy started at a very young age. Since then, I have worked in numerous, large candy stores, and have been fortunate enough to try out hundreds of brands of candies, different types and flavors. In addition to my work, I enjoy sharing my extensive knowledge with others, and decided to create Sugar Stand in order to do so. My mission is to make the world a sweeter place, one candy at a time.