Sugar candy (hard candy to many) is a favorite world wide with people of all ages. I call this world group of candy fanatics the “Mob”. Each individual “Mob” member has their favorite flavor or type and rarely will you find any one who doesn’t like at least multiple flavors or types.

The famous sugar candy aka “hard candy” in all its thousands and thousands of glorious forms, is made from thick solution of sugar water which is then made tasty and attractive by adding various flavors and colors. In many countries, these candies are sometimes made into ice pop candies by freezing them. (That is not as common in the US but it sure needs to be!!)

The actual widely used term “candy” covers a wide term which includes chocolates, toffees, chocolate based candy bars, chewing gums, liquorice and anything else that you can think of which tastes good and sweet. Many people traditionally refer to candy as confectionery or sweets.

I doubt we in the mob care so much about what you call it. The mobsters love the way it tastes, we have our absolute favorites, and we try to avoid the guilt of that love.

Here’s a way to have your sweets and not have the guilt. It may be hard to believe, but not all sweets are actually the same if you are looking to diet. Many of the mob members are also health and weight conscious.

Think about the old fashioned simple lollipop. A lollipop is sugar candy with a little stick to hold it. When you compare a lollipop to a rich chocolate, nougat, or caramel treat, there is no contest which one is better for your waistline.

It is more or less similar size and mass related. In other words, you probably eat way less food with a little hard candy, but still get the total sweet satisfaction you crave. A great example is the simple Dum Dum lollipop. They usually come in the variety bag with root beer, grape, cherry, watermelon and other assorted flavors. This simple and tiny little lollipop has experienced steady impressive sales for as long as I can remember. A Dum Dum or any other hard candy on a stick creation, can always be made in a way that diminishes sugar without ruining taste. The overall calorie load is limited by size.