Benefits of Peppermint Candy
Although unknown to many, peppermint candy does provide a number of health benefits when taken in moderate amounts. Peppermint leaves are popularly used to flavor toothpastes and tea. Common ingredients used to make peppermint candy include artificial flavoring, chocolate, sugar, and peppermint oil. While many folks enjoy the sensation and flavor of a peppermint candy, you can reap an array of health benefits from this tasty snack.
1. Antioxidant properties
Recent studies show that peppermint candy contains higher amounts of antioxidants than fruits, vegetables and cereals. Antioxidants primarily combat free radicals responsible for cell damage, as well as increased risk to diseases. While they are high in antioxidants, you should consume them in moderate amounts to avert the onset of adverse side effects.
2. Aids digestion
Peppermint candies also help to ease abdominal pain and digestive disorders such as bloating, acid reflux and constipation. Additionally, you can also take them to quell nausea caused by motion sickness. For this reason, you can suck on your peppermint candy after your meals for healthy digestion.
3. Reduces bad breath
Bad breath, commonly known as halitosis can cause odor and unpleasant taste. While breath mints help eliminate halitosis, peppermint candies destroy the microbes that cause bad breathe. Besides fighting the microbes that cause bad breath, peppermint candies also prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
4. Treats irregular bowel movements
According to recent studies, peppermint candies also help relieve irritable bowel syndrome –a condition that causes abdominal pain. Nonetheless, it is still advisable to consult a doctor if you have this condition to avert potential health complications. In other words, peppermint candy is not a substitute of medication.
No side effect has been reported with consumption of peppermint oil. However, you should steer away from them if you are allergic to menthol or mint as it may trigger undesirable side effects such as indigestion and heartburn.
