THE HAGUE - As the December 5th sinterklaas celebration approaches, the Dutch health Council is recommending a meaningful shift in traditional treats: prioritizing legumes like chickpeas, lentils, and soybeans over gingerbread nuts (pepernoten). This advice,issued in a new guideline,aims to address growing concerns about childhood obesity and long-term health impacts.
Nutritionist Elsbeth de Lange warns that the high sugar, spice, and fat content of traditional gingerbread nuts pose a direct threat to children's dental health and contribute to the development of lifestyle diseases. "Piet isn't just spreading gingerbread nuts; he's potentially contributing to future health problems," de Lange stated. She advocates for legumes as a healthier alternative, framing them as "a gift of health for a lifetime."