High in sugar and increases the chance of cancer: why you shouldn’t roast marshmallows on the fire

The marshmallow is one of the foods most associated with LG B’Omer. Children love to skewer it and roast it on the fire, but it turns out that it is a dessert with a rather dubious nutritional value. The marshmallow consists mainly of sugar, glucose syrup, gelatin and a little flavoring and food coloring. Although it is a delicious treat, its excessive consumption can be problematic due to its low nutritional value and high sugar content, which can lead to For obesity, diabetes and dental problems.

An average portion of marshmallows (4-5 units) on a skewer provides about 60 calories and about 4 teaspoons of sugar – quite similar to an average portion of fruit. However, unlike fruit, which provides the body with more important nutritional values, marshmallows do not have any added nutritional value (except for calories and sugar). In addition, there are research works that claim that there is a connection between the color of the food E122 which is usually added to marshmallow and hyperactivity and worsening of symptoms among children suffering from ADHD. No less disturbing is the fact that the sticky texture of the marshmallow may lead to a choking hazard among small children.

Roasted marshmallow – even more dangerous

Moreover, roasting a marshmallow, especially until it burns, increases the potential damage. Research has found that burnt marshmallows contain components such as PAHswhich are classified as a certain carcinogen. concentration ofPAHs Nose found higher in colorful marshmallows. Therefore, it is better to avoid burning the marshmallows and make sure to roast them moderately.

Fruit skewers: Cut fruits such as bananas, pineapples, pears, melons, peaches, or apricots into pieces and skewer them.

Bananas: Cut a banana lengthwise (inside the peel), fill with dark chocolate or natural peanut butter, wrap in foil and place on hot coals until the chocolate melts. Remove from heat (with an adult of course), open carefully and enjoy with a spoon.

Baked apples or pears: Fill apples with cinnamon and nuts, wrap in foil and bake over the coals until soft.