Healthy, Fun, and Germ-Fighting Halloween Alternatives
NEW ORLEANS - Halloween conjures up images of pumpkin buckets of overflowing candy, door-to-door trick-or-treating, and costumed children. But with the growing epidemic of childhood obesity and the spread of H1N1, many parents are looking for a more health-conscious way to celebrate the ghoulish holiday. Ochsner offers the following tips for a health-conscious, yet fun-filled, Halloween:
Healthy "Treats":
"Sugarless gum, pre-packaged cheese and crackers, trail mix, nuts, corn nuts, granola bars, small bags of pretzels or popcorn, goldfish cracker packages, individual hot chocolate packages and raisins are a great alternative to chocolates and sugary snacks," says Elesha Kelleher, Ochsner Registered Dietician. She also suggests avoiding candy altogether and opting for fun-filled treats such as: stickers, balloons, crayons, pencils, colored chalk, whistles, rubber spiders and worms.
Although it's tempting, parents need to take control and help children pace themselves when it comes to indulging in their bountiful treats. "It's a good idea to have a sensible dinner before heading door-to-door, or at least a healthy snack. Eating something other than sugar-filled candy in advance, can really cut down on tummy aches later," says Kelleher. "Children need to enjoy their Halloween treats over several days and weeks - not all in one night. Rationing Halloween candy for your kids is a great way to teach them that most foods are okay, in moderation," she adds.
Germ-Avoiding "Tricks":
Top on every parents worry list this All Hallow's Eve is the spread of the H1N1 virus. With children going door-to-door, and accepting treats being handled by many, parents need to take extra precautions. Dr. Katherine Baumgarten, Medical Director of Ochsner Infection Control, offers the following suggestions:
Remind children to cover their nose and mouth with a tissue when they sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of their elbows.
Wash hands thoroughly before eating any treats. (Carry hand sanitizer in case your goblins can't wait till you get home.)
Don't allow sharing or trading of costume masks.
Discourage kids from touching their eyes, mouth, or nose since that is the quickest way to spread germs and contract viruses and if your child has flu-like symptoms, encourage them to stay home.
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