Healthy Halloween Alternatives

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With Halloween quickly approaching, some people may be wondering what tasty treats they can pass out to trick-or-treaters that don’t involve too many unhealthy components. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (eatright.org) is a great resource that the public can refer to for information on multiple topics. One area on the Kids Eat Right website has information regarding seasonal and holiday eating tips. This week, the article titled “Tricks to Enjoying Halloween Treats” is especially relevant.

Here is a list of healthy Halloween treats, courtesy of AND and eatright.org/kids (2013):

·         Whole-grain cheddar flavored crackers
·         Fruit snacks made with 100 percent fruit with added vitamin C
·         Fruit leathers made with 100 percent fruit
·         Sugar-free gum
·         Animal-shaped graham crackers made without trans fat
·         Mini rice cereal treat bars
·         Cereal bars made with real fruit
·         Individual fruit cups
·         Mini 100-percent fruit juice boxes
·         Low-fat pudding cups
·         Baked, unsalted bags of pretzels

The Academy suggests passing out treats other than snacks, such as stickers and Halloween jewelry. The idea of going from house to house in costumes may be more fun than anything kids will get in their treat bags anyway!

The article also mentions the point that trick or treating can provide children with a good amount of exercise. It is fine to celebrate the holiday and eat candy treats in moderation, but healthier or non-food options provide children with a fun variety.

Happy Halloween!

"Tricks to Enjoying Halloween Treats." Kids Eat Right. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Jan. 2013. Web. 27 Oct. 2013. <http://www.eatright.org/Public/content.aspx?id=6442458793>.


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