Sour Patch Kids, originally called Mars Men, are fat-free sour candies that were created in the 1970s. One serving size, which is about 16 pieces of candy, contains 150 calories. The candy is void of nutritional value and they fall under the USDA's category of discretionary calories. The USDA recommends limiting your intake of discretionary calories to between 100 to 300 calories each day.
Carbohydrates
One serving of Sour Patch Kids contains 27 g of carbohydrates, 12 percent of your daily recommended value. The candy contains simple carbohydrates, or refined carbohydrates that contribute to weight gain, heart disease and diabetes. The Nutrition Source, a resource of Harvard's School of Public Health, advocates eating complex carbohydrates instead of simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates fuel you during exercise, help your organs function and promote a healthy weight. Complex carbohydrates include whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables.
Sugar
Sixteen pieces of candy contain 26 g of sugar which come from added sugar, invert sugar and corn starch. Refined, or processed sugars enter your bloodstream quickly and may cause spikes in your glucose, or blood sugar level. This may cause a short increase in energy or activity, followed by a period of fatigue or low energy, according to MedlinePlus.
Nutritional Benefits
The candy contains no vitamins, minerals, protein or fiber. Fiber and protein both contribute to feelings of satiation. Eating Sour Patch Kids, or empty calories may not fill you up and you may need additional calories to satisfy your hunger. Sodium is the sole nutrient found in Sour Patch Kids. The candy contains 25 mg or 1 percent of the daily allowance for sodium, making it a very low-sodium food.
Considerations
Counting out and sticking to one serving size may help you avoid overeating Sour Patch Kids. Cutting your serving size in half will reduce your caloric and sugar intake. Eating fruit, yogurt or another healthy sweet food may satisfy your craving without surrendering the nutritional benefits.
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