Forget Frankenstein! The scariest thing about Halloween is what candy can do to your health.

Halloween is a nightmare for doctors and dentists. Halloween candy is delicious and fun to get by trick or treating, but too much can harm your children's health. The sugar in candy can damage teeth, pack on pounds, and give kids an unhealthy rush of energy that can be hard to burn off.

Check out these tips to control the Halloween candy in your household and make this Halloween your healthiest one yet.

Halloween Candy Control

• Discuss the health issues associated with candy with your kids before Halloween.
• Stick to mini candy and smaller treats that give you the taste without too many calories.
• Store all candy in a central location that parents can monitor.
• Offer to let children trade in candy for cash or other rewards that don’t rot teeth.
• Be a good role-model and limit your own intake as a parent.
• Get rid of excess or left over candy to avoid temptation.
• Set a limit for candy intake each day and have kids choose their treat wisely.

Healthiest Candy Options
What are the healthiest types of candy? While all candy contains empty calories, some choices are better than others. If you have to indulge your sweet tooth, these options have less sugar or are lower fat.

• 3 Musketeers Mini: lower in calories, fat, and sugar than most other candy
• York Peppermint Patty: lower in calories and fat
• Peeps Marshmallow treats: no fat
• Tootsie Roll: low in fat
• Peanut M&M’s: peanuts contain protein
• Jolly Ranchers: low calorie, no fat
• Charm Blow Pops: low calorie, no fat
• Smarties: less sugar

Plantation General wishes your family a happy and healthy Halloween. Visit our online library to learn more about making a candy eating plan for your family. Remember, one day of indulgence isn't so bad if you follow healthy eating guidelines every day!  A few treats, along with a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, will keep your ghosts and goblins healthy and happy.

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Safety Tips for Your Halloween