Candy

Quick energy (not sustained).

Category: Eat Less Often
Plate rating: 15/100
Glycemic index: ≈80 · High GI

What candy offers

Quick energy (not sustained)

When to eat it

Rarely, if at all.

Tip

Choose dark chocolate or fruit instead

Blood sugar

High GI — tends to raise blood sugar quickly; pairing with protein, fat or fiber helps. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

More foods to eat less often

PizzaSome protein and calciumEat Less OftenMedicine note

BurgerProtein, ironEat Less Often

Ice CreamCalcium, some proteinEat Less OftenMedicine note

BaconProtein, B vitaminsEat Less OftenMedicine note

ChipsMinimal - some energyEat Less Often

FriesMinimal - some potassiumEat Less Often

Sources

Nutrient data: USDA FoodData Central (search “Candy”)
Glycemic index: Glycemic Index Research and GI News (University of Sydney)

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.