Caramel apples are usually served on a stick and sometimes with nuts. While they may be a tasty treat, with some benefits, they aren't that healthy for you. Next time you think about eating a caramel apple, read the nutrition label and consider how many calories you've already eaten throughout the day.
History
Certain types of apples are grown year-round, while others can be grown only during certain times of the year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The CDC reports that on average, the typical American eats about 120 apples per year. Apples are found in pies, jellies, applesauce, juice and other desserts.
Types
Approximately 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the U.S., but only nine made the list as most popular, according to the CDC's website. The most popular apples include Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, Jonagold, Rome Beauty, Granny Smith, Wine Smith and McIntosh.
Calorie Count
On average, a medium-size apple, of any variety, contains approximately 80 calories, according to the Centers for Disease Control. When you add caramel to the apple, it causes the calorie count to skyrocket. Your 80-calorie snack just became approximately 286 calories, depending upon manufacturer. A caramel apple typically contains about 3 g of fat, 0g of saturated fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 0 mg of sodium and about 50 g of carbohydrates. Caramel apples also contain about 5 g of dietary fiber and 4 g of protein.
Nutritional Value
Fruit typically contains vitamins A and C, but apples also provide fiber, according to HelpGuide.org. Fiber helps keep you feeling full, which can prevent overeating. Fiber is an important part of your diet. Not only does it help curb your appetite, but it also helps keep your bowel movements regular.
Considerations
Next time you need a sweet snack and opt for a caramel apple, don't beat yourself up over it. While an almost 300-calorie snack isn't ideal, you can fit in a few simple exercises to help burn those calories to maintain your weight. The Fitness Magazine website suggests doing power-jumps to burn extra calories. Stand with your feet about six inches apart, squat down and leap forward as far as you can. Twenty-five power-jumps will burn approximately 80 calories.
Member Comments