What are the side effects of peppermint candy?

October 17, 2025 •

2 min read

While peppermint is often associated with soothing digestion, peppermint candy is a different story, with its high sugar content posing several health concerns. These sweet treats can lead to issues ranging from common dental problems to digestive system upsets for some individuals. Understanding the full spectrum of potential health impacts is crucial for anyone enjoying these minty confections.

Quick Summary

Excessive peppermint candy consumption can cause significant health problems, including tooth decay due to high sugar content and exacerbating acid reflux by relaxing the esophageal sphincter. Other potential issues include digestive upset like diarrhea, especially with sugar-free versions, and rare allergic reactions. Menthol toxicity is a risk only with extremely high quantities, but overall moderation is key.

Key Points

Exacerbates Acid Reflux: The menthol in peppermint relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and causing heartburn.
Causes Tooth Decay: High sugar content and the slow-dissolving nature of hard candies provide prolonged exposure to sugar, feeding bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acid.
Triggers Digestive Issues: Excessive consumption can lead to stomach cramps, bloating, and diarrhea, especially with sugar-free varieties containing sugar alcohols like sorbitol.
Poses Risks with Medications: Peppermint oil can interact with medications processed by the liver, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing side effects.
Contains Artificial Dyes: Some candies include artificial dyes like Red 40, which have been linked to potential health and behavioral issues in children.
Can Cause Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to peppermint, resulting in symptoms like hives or swelling.

The Primary Risks: Sugar and Dental Health

One of the most significant drawbacks of regular peppermint candy consumption is its high sugar content. Standard hard peppermint candies are primarily sugar, corn syrup, and flavoring, creating an ideal environment for bacteria that cause tooth decay and cavities. The slow-dissolving nature of hard candies prolongs sugar exposure, worsening the risk, and biting them can also damage teeth.

Digestive System Disruption

Despite peppermint's use as a digestive aid, the candy form can cause issues, particularly for those with existing problems. Peppermint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to cause or worsen heartburn and acid reflux. Sugar-free candies often use sugar alcohols like sorbitol, which can cause cramps, bloating, and diarrhea in excess. High amounts of even sugary candies can cause issues.

Allergic Reactions and Interactions

Rarely, allergic reactions to peppermint can occur with symptoms like hives or swelling. Peppermint oil can also affect how the liver processes certain medications, potentially changing their effectiveness. Antacids may interfere with enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules, causing heartburn.

Comparison Table: Peppermint Candy vs. Peppermint Tea

This table highlights the differences between peppermint candy and peppermint tea.


Feature	Peppermint Candy (Sugared)	Peppermint Tea
Primary Composition	Sugar, corn syrup, peppermint oil, artificial dyes	Water, dried or fresh peppermint leaves
Sugar Content	Very high, primary ingredient	Zero
Dental Impact	High risk of cavities and enamel erosion	Minimal to none
Digestive Aid	Can trigger or worsen acid reflux; sugar alcohols may cause diarrhea	Can aid digestion, reduce bloating and gas
Effect on LES	May relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing reflux	Can still relax the LES, but without high sugar content
Nutritional Value	Negligible	Contains small amounts of vitamins A and E and antioxidants
Menthol Concentration	Low concentration	Lower concentration than concentrated oil capsules

Other Considerations: Additives and Overconsumption

Other ingredients matter, like artificial dyes such as Red 40, potentially linked to hyperactivity in children. Menthol toxicity is extremely rare from candy, mainly linked to concentrated oils and massive intake. As a high-sugar, low-nutrient item, excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain.

Conclusion

Peppermint candy's potential side effects largely stem from high sugar and peppermint oil's effect on the lower esophageal sphincter. Risks include tooth decay, worsened acid reflux, and digestive issues. Those with GERD, gallbladder issues, diabetes, or taking certain medications should be cautious or avoid it. Peppermint tea is a healthier, sugar-free alternative. Moderation is key when enjoying peppermint candy.

For more on peppermint risks and benefits, see resources like Drugs.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, peppermint candy can cause heartburn. The menthol in peppermint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus, which can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms.

Yes, peppermint candy is bad for your teeth due to its high sugar content. The sugar provides food for mouth bacteria, which produce acid that erodes tooth enamel and causes cavities, especially since hard candies dissolve slowly.

Sugar-free peppermint candy often contains sugar alcohols, such as sorbitol, as a sweetener. When consumed in large quantities, these sugar alcohols can act as a laxative and lead to digestive issues like bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), hiatal hernia, gallbladder issues, or those taking certain medications should be cautious with or avoid peppermint candy. Individuals with diabetes should also limit consumption due to high sugar content.

The concentrated oil in peppermint can interact with medications that are broken down by the liver, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and drugs for heart conditions. It is best to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.

Eating too much peppermint candy can lead to a variety of issues, including severe dental problems, exacerbated acid reflux, digestive upset like diarrhea or cramps, and potential interactions with medications. Excessive consumption over a long period can also contribute to weight gain.

Yes, peppermint tea is a much safer and healthier alternative. It offers the digestive benefits of peppermint without the high sugar content and its associated risks like tooth decay and weight gain. However, individuals with GERD should still be mindful that peppermint can potentially trigger heartburn.