It’s officially that time of year: Girl Scout cookie season. Sold by young members of the organization, Girl Scout cookies have been around for more than 100 years. The profits from the sales stay local and fund the troop adventures, like camping trips, museum visits and more.
Once you get your hands on a coveted box, you may be tempted to eat an entire box of cookies in one sitting. But nutrition experts say there is a healthier way to approach these desserts.
Nicole Rodriguez, registered dietitian and Girl Scout Troop Leader says that you shouldn’t miss out on the cookies that are truly your favorite. Cara Harbstreet, registered dietitian and owner of Street Smart Nutrition, thinks similarly and notes that Girl Scout cookies are familiar, so give yourself permission to look forward to eating them.
“As with many treats, portion control is the name of the game when it comes to Girl Scout Cookies, (and) no one feels good after mindlessly scarfing down an entire sleeve,” says Rodriguez. She suggests freezing half the box and dividing the remaining cookies into individual 2 cookie servings in snack bags. “These portions offer a prime opportunity to savor the flavor, texture and aroma of your preferred cookie mindfully,” she says.
Harbstreet adds that “just because you eat something with added sugar doesn’t mean your whole diet has been derailed,” says Harbstreet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends aiming for 50 grams (or less) of added sugar per day. “That allows plenty of room to enjoy the occasional cookie or two,” says Harbstreet.
Since both dietitians agree that you shouldn’t deprive yourself of a cookie, here are the ones they say have the most nutritional upside.
Tagalongs (Peanut Butter Patties)
“While no one is likely eating Girl Scout cookies for the protein or fiber content, these have slightly more than other types with 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber per serving (2 cookies),” says Harbstreet….
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