Halloween Health

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Halloween is a fun time for kids. They dress up in their favorite costume and trick-or-treat for candy. Whether your child uses a traditional pumpkin head or a pillowcase, rest assured they will have an abundant amount of candy by the end of their trick-or-treat outing. We all know overloading with candy isn’t the best option for our children, but often feel trapped by the notion that Halloween revolves around delicious, sweet confections.

Adults are also guilty of overindulging in Halloween snacking. Here are a few tips from our Cooper Clinic Nutrition Services team. You and your child will be prepared for a ghoulishly fun Halloween and week after—without the ghastly over indulgences. 

Moderation is Key
One popular saying in the Cooper Clinic Nutrition Department is “practice moderation not deprivation.” After returning home from trick-or-treating, allow your children to choose a set amount of candy. For example, guide them in choosing one piece of candy for each day of the following week. Allowing your kids to have a choice in their candy selection offers a valuable tool in nutrition independence. 

Make a Healthier Choice
Choosing better candy options is another way to make Halloween a nutrition success.  Select candy or snacks that have a little nutritional value such as the ones listed below.

• Dark chocolates – They contain less sugar plus some fiber, protein and antioxidants compared to their milk chocolate counterparts. One serving of dark chocolate has more antioxidant capacity than a serving of blueberries or cranberries. 
• Mini packages of popcorn
• Baked chips
• Pretzels
• Fig Newtons – They provide nutrients from the corn, potato, grains or figs.

If you are handing out candy, distribute the mini-sized pieces of candy rather than the regular sizes. The two will vary by at least twice the calories and fat. Another fun option, instead of handing out candy, is passing out a small toy such as bouncy balls or temporary Halloween tattoos.

Recycle
Last but not least, get rid of leftover candy that you did not hand out as soon as possible.  Take extra to work or donate it to a shelter. This way you rid temptation and establish an environment that promotes healthy choices. In doing so, you are able to return to your normal habits as soon as possible because after all, Thanksgiving and Christmas are right around the corner!

For more information about Cooper Clinic Nutrition Services, click here or call 972.560.2655.