Why We Love Candy and How to Enjoy It in Moderation

What’s your favorite candy?

I love jelly beans and sour worms and I am a big fan of chocolate.

My favorites are the most popular candy around me like:

Snickers
M&M’s
KitKat
Twix
Skittles
Smarties
Licorice
Milkyway

Why Is Candy So Popular?

Candy is a favorite for a few key reasons:

Candy satisfies our sweet tooth like nothing else.
The high sugar content triggers feel-good chemicals in the brain, making it a sweet reward.
Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little treat now and then?

Forget candy for a second—let’s talk about why natural foods should be our go-to treat. Lately, there’s been a push to ban artificial food dyes, like Red Dye 3, which is found in many candies. Why? Because studies have linked these dyes to health risks, including cancer in animals. So maybe it’s time to swap the artificial stuff for something naturally sweet.

Top Reasons Why Too Much Candy Is Bad for You

There’s no doubt—candy isn’t the healthiest choice. Eating it too often can be harmful since it’s loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. Plus, if candy becomes a daily habit, it might take the place of more nutritious foods your body actually needs.

The key? Moderation. Enjoy your sweets, but remember—too much of anything is never a good thing. Here are some top reasons why too much candy is bad for you:

It can cause weight gain
May increase the risk of heart disease
Linked to acne
Increased risk of type 2 diabetes
Increased risk of cancer
Increased risk of depression
May accelerate the skin aging process
Can cause cellular aging
May drain your energy
May lead to fatty liver
Negative impact on dental health

How To Eat Candy Guilt Free

Enjoy a small portion occasionally—swap the whole chocolate bar for just a piece.
Balance your meals so you can fit in a little treat without guilt.
Don’t overdo it the next day—treats are fun, but your body loves balance

Make Your Sweets Healthier at Home

Want to enjoy homemade treats without all the extra fat, sugar, and calories? Try these simple swaps:

Use low-fat dairy.
Cut down on butter and ghee—opt for healthier oils like corn, sunflower, or canola instead.
Reduce sugar by sweetening with dates or raisins for a natural boost.

Did you know that a chocolate bar with wafers has fewer calories than a solid chocolate bar?

Food To Substitute Candy Cravings

Berries
Greek yogurt
Nuts
Avocado
Cinnamon
Chia seeds
Citrus fruits
Coconut
Dark chocolate
Sugar free chewing gum
Dates
Smoothies
Prunes

What to Eat When You Crave Sugar

If you’re craving sugar, try eating something naturally sweet but also high in fiber to keep you satisfied. Some healthy options include sweet potatoes, chia seeds, berries, prunes, dates, and lean proteins. These foods can help curb your cravings without the sugar crash.

Can Nutrient Deficiencies Cause Sugar Cravings?

There’s a common belief that nutrient deficiencies trigger sugar cravings, but research suggests otherwise. A Healthline article found that deficiencies play only a minor role. Instead, cravings are often influenced by external cues—like habits, environment, or even the time of day.

So next time you’re craving sweets, consider what might be triggering it.

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Not Having Enough Time

What do you complain about the most?

I always find myself complaining about not having enough time. As a medical student, my days are packed with classes, long study sessions, and managing my side hustle—blogging. On top of that, I’m a young woman who loves going out with friends, keeping up with social media trends, hitting the gym, nurturing my faith, and maintaining a healthy diet—all within just 24 hours. It feels overwhelming.

I used to believe I didn’t have enough time—until I realized how carelessly I was spending it. I was losing three hours a day scrolling through Instagram and TikTok, constantly rushing to meet deadlines, and oversleeping more than I should. Even getting a full 7-8 hours made me feel guilty, and on days when I slept for 12 hours, I was absolutely frustrated with myself. I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who’s been there.

That was the case until I learned a few tricks. I highly recommend using Screen Zen on your phone—it helps limit screen time and blocks distracting sites, making it a total game-changer for productivity.

Another thing that has helped me tremendously is surrounding myself with like-minded, goal-oriented friends. My friend will literally call me if she notices I’m oversleeping, and I’ll remind her of upcoming deadlines. It’s all about keeping each other accountable!

What To Do When You Have Troubles With Time

Stay off your phone
Have a to do list
Do the hardest task first
Rest, don’t compromise on sleep
Have friends because sometimes group work get things done faster
Pray about time management

Here are 20 More Tips to Help with Time Management

1. Set clear priorities

2. Use a planner or digital calendar

3. Create a daily to-do list

4. Set time limits for tasks

5. Use the 45/15 technique

6. Eliminate distractions

7. Batch similar tasks together

8. Plan your day the night before

9. Wake up early

10. Set specific goals with deadlines

11. Learn to say no

12. Delegate tasks when possible

13. Track your time usage

14. Avoid multitasking

15. Schedule breaks

16. Automate repetitive tasks

17. Use productivity apps

18. Establish a consistent routine

19. Limit time on social media

20. Reflect and adjust your schedule regularly

I hope you found this article interesting

Here’s a picture of me right now! Fun fact: I’m actually chilling in the surgical room, watching a CABG procedure. All I can think about is how valuable time is and how we need to make the most of it while we still can.

How To Forgive Yourself

Forgiving yourself can feel like one of the hardest things to do, especially when guilt keeps whispering in your ear.

Forgiving yourself is one of the most powerful steps toward healing. In this article, we will discuss how to let go of the guilt and embrace self-compassion.

1. Acknowledge Your Mistakes

The first step is to face what happened. Be honest with yourself—no sugarcoating or avoiding the issue. Accept that you made a mistake, but also remind yourself that being human means being imperfect.

2. Find the Lesson

Mistakes are life’s way of teaching us valuable lessons. Ask yourself, What can I learn from this? Shifting your focus from the guilt of what went wrong to the wisdom you’ve gained helps you grow.

3. Let Go of Shame

Guilt says, I did something bad. Shame says, I am bad.

Don’t let your mistakes define your worth. You’re so much more than one decision or one moment. Recognize the difference, and release the shame holding you back.

4. Make Amends If Needed

If your actions affected someone else, a sincere apology can make all the difference—for them and for you. Owning your actions and taking steps to make it right brings closure and allows both parties to heal.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Imagine your best friend came to you feeling the way you do now. What would you say to them? Chances are, you’d offer them love and understanding—not judgment. Show yourself that same kindness.

6. Challenge Negative Self-Talk

We can be our own worst critics. The next time you catch yourself thinking, I’ll never move past this, reframe it. Try reciting Bible verses like, I receive an abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness. I reign in life through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17)

7. Give Yourself Permission to Heal

Forgiveness doesn’t mean you’re excusing what happened; it means you’re letting go of the pain it caused. Healing is a process, and it’s okay to take your time.

8. Seek Support

You don’t have to do this alone. Talking to a friend, mentor, or therapist can offer fresh perspectives and encouragement. Sometimes, an outside voice helps us see what we can’t.

9. Take Positive Steps Forward

Channel your energy into something meaningful. Volunteer, take up a hobby, or pursue a goal that excites you. Positive actions remind you that you’re capable of creating good in the world.

10. Be Patient with Yourself

Forgiving yourself is not a one-time event—it’s a journey. Celebrate small victories along the way. Each step you take is proof that you’re moving forward.

Conclusion

Forgiving yourself is an act of self-love. It’s about letting go of the past and embracing the opportunity to start fresh. Remember, you are not defined by your mistakes—you’re defined by how you rise after them.

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Batumi

Think back on your most memorable road trip.

We went to Batumi last summer.

I saw dolphins, went to the beach (Black sea), ate lots of ice cream and khinkali.

I faced my fear of heights, saw the famous Ali and Nino statue

I rode on this was so scared but later started enjoying the view

Ali and Nino statue ( a painful love story). Apparently they loved each other but couldn’t be together 😩

This painting caught my attention at the museum . Why is she sleeping outside?

The trip was fun, I will go again

This is Khinkali, so delicious. I can eat 5 😄

Frozen Tangerines 🍊 (mandarins)

What snack would you eat right now?

I love tangerines and my most recent discovery is frozen tangerines.

Frozen tangerines are delicious and often easy to make.

You can also blend the frozen tangerines to make a sweet sorbet.

Benefits of Tangerines

1. Rich in Vitamin C

2. Boosts immunity

3. Aids in digestion

4. Promotes heart health

5. Supports weight management

6. Improves skin health

7. Enhances eye health

8. Reduces risk of chronic diseases

9. Hydrates the body

10. Easy to add to your diet

The 15 Dirtiest Things You Touch Everyday

We all know about washing our hands regularly, but how often do we think about what we touch? Many everyday items harbor germs and bacteria that could make us sick.

1. Cellphone

Free A woman using her phone at a desk, surrounded by art supplies and a laptop, in a creative workspace. Stock Photo — Phone

Your trusty smartphone is a bacteria magnet. Between frequent use, being carried everywhere, and rarely being cleaned, studies show that phones are often dirtier than toilet seats. Wash your hands after using the toilet, and wipe your phone frequently with electronics wipes.

2. Remote Control

Free A couple enjoying a relaxing movie night, sitting on a sofa with popcorn and a TV remote. Stock Photo — Remote control

Everyone touches the remote. From greasy popcorn fingers during movie nights to dust buildup, remote controls are touched by many hands and rarely sanitized. Germs love this hotspot.

How to clean your remote control

Use a dry cotton swab to remove visible dust and debris inside the remote. Next, dampen another cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol and gently clean the circuit board and other internal components. Be cautious not to use too much moisture, as it could damage the electrical parts. If the remote has rubber buttons, clean them thoroughly as well.

3. Laptop Keyboards

Free Child focused on laptop wearing headphones at desk with purple lighting. Modern tech scene. Stock Photo — Laptop

Eating lunch while working? Your keyboard collects crumbs, oils, and bacteria. It’s a breeding ground for germs, especially if multiple users share it.

How to clean your Laptop Keyboard

Turn off and unplug the laptop.
Use a soft brush or cloth to remove loose debris gently.
Wipe the keys with a cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution.
Allow the keyboard to air dry completely before reconnecting.
Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive liquid to prevent damage.

4. Dish Sponge

Free Close-up of woman washing dishes at kitchen sink, highlighting hands with bracelet. Stock Photo — Dish sponge

While it’s designed for cleaning, the dish sponge is one of the dirtiest items in your kitchen. Warm, moist environments help bacteria thrive, making regular replacement crucial.

Many people use microwaves to clean their sponges; however, you can also clean your dish sponge by soaking it in hot water.

Fill a small bowl with hot water or white vinegar and soak the sponge. Let it sit for five minutes, and then rinse it out and let it air dry.

5. Toothbrush

Free Macro shot of a toothbrush with blue toothpaste and blurred background. Stock Photo — Toothbrush

Your toothbrush spends time in a humid bathroom where airborne particles from flushing toilets can settle on it. Store it upright and away from the bathroom to minimize exposure.

6. Pet Toys

Free A happy chocolate Labrador Retriever playing tug-of-war with a colorful toy inside a cozy home. Stock Photo — Pet toys

Your furry friend’s favorite toy collects drool, dirt, and bacteria. Regular washing with pet-safe cleaners can keep your pets—and you—safe.

7. Money

Free Close-up of person counting cash with notepad on desk, indicating financial tasks. Stock Photo — Money

Cash constantly changes hands, picking up bacteria, dirt, and even viruses. It’s wise to wash your hands after handling it.

8. Laundry

Free A woman pours detergent into a washing machine for a laundry cycle. Stock Photo — Laundry

Dirty laundry, especially gym clothes or towels, can carry germs, mold, and odors. Wash them promptly to avoid bacteria buildup.

9. Your Purse

Free Close-up of a stylish black purse held by a person outdoors, showcasing elegance and fashion. Stock Photo — purse

Purses go everywhere, from the floor of public restrooms to counters and car seats. The bottom of your bag is a hotspot for bacteria and dirt.

10. ATM Keypads

Free A person wearing gloves withdrawing cash from an ATM machine showcasing money handling and hygiene. Stock Photo — ATM

Used by hundreds daily, ATM keypads are rarely cleaned and frequently touched by unwashed hands. A quick hand sanitizer rub afterward can help.

11. Shopping Cart Handles

Free An empty shopping cart lies abandoned on a patch of grass by the roadside. Stock Photo — Shopping cart

Countless people, including children, touch shopping cart handles. These handles often carry germs from raw food items and dirty hands.

12. Soap Dispensers

Ironically, the soap dispenser pump is full of germs because people touch it with dirty hands before washing it. Automatic dispensers reduce this risk.

Free A close-up of a hand dispensing soap from a bottle, showcasing hygiene and cleanliness concepts. Stock Photo — soap dispenser

13. Kitchen Towels

Kitchen towels are used for everything, from drying hands to wiping spills. When damp, they become a breeding ground for bacteria, so they should be washed frequently.

14. Light Switches

Light switches are touched multiple times a day but rarely cleaned. Regular disinfecting can keep germs at bay.

15. Steering Wheels

We eat, drink, and touch various things before grabbing the wheel, so it’s no surprise that car steering wheels often harbor bacteria and dirt.

Bonus

16. Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes collect oils, dead skin cells, and product buildup with every use. If not cleaned regularly, they become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to skin issues like acne and irritation.

How to clean your makeup brush

Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a tablespoon of gentle or clarifying shampoo. Avoid using plain soap and water, as it can dry out the bristles. Swirl the tip of each brush in the bowl to loosen dirt and makeup residue. For a deeper clean, gently massage the brush tips in the palm of your hand to create a rich lather.

Tips to Keep Germs Away

Clean high-touch surfaces regularly with disinfectant wipes or sprays.
Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
Avoid touching your face, especially after handling any of these items.
Be mindful of shared items and sanitize them often.

By being aware of these germy culprits, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from unnecessary exposure to harmful bacteria.

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Thank you

If you had a freeway billboard, what would it say?

We recently made 1000 likes on MABS, so my freeway billboard would say a big Thank You!

This blog has been a labor of love for the past five years, and reaching 1,000 likes in just a year is nothing short of amazing. It’s a clear sign that we’re on the right track and that our content is resonating with more and more people. While we’re not quite at the level of the larger blogs with frequent comments and massive followings, I deeply value every single visit, like, and subscription.

Writing has always been my passion, and I’m overjoyed to bring value to your lives through this blog, with a vision centered on holistic health. To everyone who reads, supports, and engages with my articles, I want to extend a heartfelt “THANK YOU!” Let’s aim for 2,000 likes by 2025—by God’s grace, we’ll make it happen! ❤️

Not just words

What is the greatest gift someone could give you?

The greatest gift I ever received is my Bible.

My grandma gave it to me in 2021.

The words in the Bible are so powerful, especially when you believe in God’s words and promises.

Vulnerability

What are your biggest challenges?

Last night, I opened my journal out of curiosity, but it turned into an emotional journey. As I read, the tears started flowing, and I cried until I fell asleep. Through it all, I kept gospel music playing softly in the background, and it felt like a warm, comforting hug. Peace gently filled the room.

In that moment, I realized how God had been my strength throughout the year—how He showed up when I was barely holding on, running on autopilot. He stepped in, took the wheel, and guided me forward.

Thank you, Jesus, for being my light in the darkness. Life without You is empty, but with You, there’s hope and purpose.

Always learning

Is your life today what you pictured a year ago?

Not at all. I was much more ignorant last year. This year, I’ve learned so much—like the value of relationships, the importance of consistency and prayer, and better ways to manage my self and resources