Healthy Alternatives for Halloween Candy

Halloween is a time to enjoy creative costumes, fun gatherings, and of course, treats.  Trick or treating is a national-wide event on October 31^st and once the sun sets, the candy is given out.  Ever since this tradition started in 1927, trick or treating has been a way for children to dress up in creative or often scary costumes in order to prance around for candy or some sweet treat.  Given that sweets are something that everyone craves, consider starting a new tradition in 2015 and give out better options this Halloween.

In recent years, we have seen the change of the food pyramid to the MyPlate, healthier options in schools and vending machines, and a large push for kids to cut back on soda and cola.  There are two reasons for this shift.  One reason is the amount of high fructose corn syrup is causing diabetes in children in a high rate (sorry, high fructose corn syrup does not make you fatter) and the other reason is because of the amounts of added sugars in candy.  There was once a time when candy only caused cavities in your teeth, but now we are very aware that candy does more than this.  Given that sweetened candy is unhealthy and can lead to a plethora of health problems, one should look into giving treats that are healthier and safe.  Listed below are some options for you to give out this Halloween and make sure to spread the word to your friends.

Healthy Alternatives for Halloween Candy

• Sugar-Free and Healthy. One downside to loading up on sugar is that it can cause quick energy bursts followed by a crash in energy.  This is a major downside and is a big player in obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, even in kids.  Rather than give out sugar-sweetened candies this Halloween, consider a sugar-free version.  You can shop online to find such candy and the selection for this variety is growing.  Take a look at this site for some options.
• Hershey’s Sugar-Free Chocolate. Hershey is one of the biggest distributors of chocolate in the world and now they are creating some that are sugar-free.  Take a look at this option for your chocolate treating option this Halloween.
• Jelly Belly Gummies. Everyone loves gummy bears and worms, so why not give out some gummies this Halloween.  One serving contains 130 calories and zero grams of sugar.  Find some of these for the candy dish at home and for giving out for Halloween this year.
• York Brand Sugar –Free Peppermint Patties. These are a refreshing treat and having them as a sugar-free option is icing on the cake.  Consider purchasing these to give out for your trick-or-treating.
• Twizzlers Sugar-Free Strawberry. Hershey is getting it right with their sugar-free branding.  Order as many as you want of these to avoid the excess sugar.  Six pieces of these will be only 120 calories, but there are zero added sugars.
• Reese’s Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cups. The best candy around just got better.  Five pieces are considered one serving and only 180 calories.  Of this, there are zero added sugars and most of the calories are from fats.
• Gums and Hard Candies. Some of the local convenience stores, such as Walgreens, are great because they have a plethora supply of Halloween candy.  Consider finding healthy and sugar-free options at Walgreens for your treats this year.
• Alternative Healthy Options. Ok so giving out sugar-free candy is good, but you are still donating large amounts of fat to kids and adults who cannot afford to have the fat.  Instead of this option, consider alternative healthy options such as Jell-O cups with fruit, fig cookies, cracker jacks, granola bars, and other 100 calorie options.  While you still need to be cautious and all food products need to be sealed, offering low-calorie snacks can sure be a great way to start a healthy trend this Halloween.

References