A healthy Halloween, really, is that possible? I mean who wants to think about fruits and veggies on Halloween. It’s supposed to be the holiday filled with a bag of sugary treats and goodies. When I was a kid I loved Halloween. It is so much fun, but it can also be a nightmare for your child’s health and waistline. Sugary foods are a big contributor to childhood diabetes and obesity. With Halloween cookies, mini snickers bars, and jolly ranchers galore, kids load their trick or treat bags with sugar and fat. The good news is your kids can still enjoy their sugary treats without going overboard.
First, start by helping other kids in your neighborhood. Why not get creative and instead of purchasing candy and treats rather opt for something fun such as stickers, school supplies, toys, or tattoos, all of which are calorie free and loads of fun.
Or if you just can’t get away from handing out some kind of treat, opt for something a bit more on the healthy side. Some ideas include sugar free gum, raisins, cheese and cracker packs, pretzels, microwave popcorn, 100% juice boxes, or trail mix. All of these are great, nutritious snacks, without the extra calories.
Also, before your child heads out for the evening make sure they have eaten a good meal. This will keep them from being so tempted to dig into their bag before they get home. I do remember coming home one time on Halloween and almost feeling sick from eating so much candy! The king size candy bars my grandma gave me really didn’t help either. Anyhow, a full stomach will definitely go a long way for your child while they are out trick or treating.
Lastly, when your child brings home that giant sized bag of treats rather than letting them eat everything within a week a good idea is to hide the bag so it’s out of site. That way your child is not constantly reminded of all the sweets. Also, be sure to distribute the delicious contents over time so they are only getting a few pieces each day. That way they can have their treats without going on a sugar overload.
And remember enjoy your Halloween! It’s a great time of year.
Kids love scratch and sniff stickers, find them in a big pack and give them out by the 1/2 sheet.
A friend who was prof. asst. had me on the lookout for jumbo packs all the time….
College students looked forward to them…..