Five Tips on How People with Diabetes can Enjoy Halloween
Halloween is one of the most unhealthy holidays of the year with the amount of consumption of candy and other sugary treats, especially for diabetics. To help those with diabetes celebrate Halloween this year, SAPNA offers tips on how to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing your health:
Count the carbs of each candy – Keep in mind that each individual has a different requirement of carbohydrate take per day. Consider the carbs you get from healthy foods such as bread, potatoes, corn and legumes, as well as the carbs found in each candy before you decide to eat it. Talk to your health care provider about your daily requirements or needs to help you determine how much of your favourite treats you can eat.
Pack a healthy snack while trick or treating – A lot of walking can cause the sugar levels for those with diabetes to become low. Having a healthy snack such as a piece of fruit can help bring your sugar level up without having to sneak a treat from your child’s goodie bag.
Sort n’ Share –With the amount of treats that you or your child have collected, make sure to sort the bag before you eat anything. Divide the treats among your children to ensure that they don’t eat too much all at once. Let them pick their favourite treats and set aside certain times for them to eat it, such as for dessert or after dinner. Remember, eating sweets is ok as long as it is done in moderation.
Eat treats lower in fat and carbs –Chocolates and high-fat treats can significantly affect your blood sugar level. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, choosing Halloween-size treats that are between eight to 15 grams of carbohydrates are better choices than a bag of chips, which contains high fat and calories.
Make your own Halloween treats– Halloween isn’t just about candy, but it’s also about being creative. Offer your child or guests some healthier and fun alternatives, such as carving a watermelon or orange like a mini pumpkin with sugar-free gummy worms on top as hair. Or even something simple as sugar-free chocolate pudding and low fat chocolate-covered strawberries.
Remember, there are always healthy ways to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/juushika/
