childrenoct2005

From candy to caramel apples, Halloween is one of the sweetest
holidays of the year. But for children with diabetes, it can be a
dangerous one. With childhood diabetes on the rise, it is crucial that
children and parents know the risks involved in indulging in too
much sugar and carbohydrates as well as some healthy alternatives.
Children with diabetes are simply not physically able to enjoy as
many sweets as other children are. This is due to the lack or
absence of insulin and their inability to supply body cells with the
correct amount of glucose (a simple sugar).
Because glucose is not being properly utilized, if your child
overdoses on sugar, the effects can be harmful. High blood glucose
levels ultimately lead to diabetes complications. Even though these
complications may take years to occur, damage can be done to the
heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. Be aware though that each child is
different, so it is important to discuss your child’s diabetes with
his/her physician.
The truth is that children with diabetes can actively participate in
and enjoy Halloween — and any holiday. Parents can plan ahead
so they can fit some treats into their diabetes management plans, by
finding other ways of celebrating the holiday and by communicating
with their healthcare team about new approaches to diabetes care
that allow for increased flexibility.
Children can and should enjoy trick-or-treating. Parents and kids
can discuss together what the child’s favorite treats are and work
those snacks into the meal plan. But after all the trick-or-treating is
over, there may still be bags of candy left over.

“With bags of candy left over from the big event, parents can ‘ration’
the goodies so as to help the children learn appropriate amounts of
treats incorporated into a healthy lifestyle. Also, ‘buying back’ the
candy with other items, such as a small toy, might work well in some
families. We try never to create a situation where children with
diabetes feel ‘left out’ or ‘strange’ because they have this disease.”

For school parties, parents can send in a treat called “ants on a log”
(made with celery, peanut butter and raisins), carrot sticks and dip,
pretzels and party mix snacks, or fresh apples. Small amounts of
sweets also can be included for kids with diabetes. Most importantly,
kids with diabetes need to feel that they can participate and have
fun along with all the other youngsters.

With a limitation on candy and other sweets, how can you keep your
child healthy and happy this Halloween?

You can allow your child to have one or two treats that they collect
on Halloween. In fact, if he/she does not indulge in other treats, your
child may be able to enjoy a Halloween treat each day, as long as
his/her blood glucose levels are within target range.
What about reduced-sugar or sugar-free candy? Not a good idea,
since these types of candy still contain carbohydrates and will raise
your child’s blood glucose level. For an all-around nutritious treat, try
to be creative. For example, instead of candy corn for your child to
munch on, try frozen seedless grapes. This will provide your child
with a refreshing and sweet alternative. Crunchy nuts mixed with
bite-sized cereal and a few juicy raisins can be a great substitute in
lieu of candy pieces.

There's no reason that having diabetes should interfere with having
Halloween fun. Here are a few tips for a safe and happy Halloween.
~* ~The best part of Halloween is the ' Dressing up.' Put extra effort
into your child's costume. Get the whole family involved.
~*~ Go to a Halloween activity in the community such as a haunted
house, hayride or bonfire.
~*~ Plan a party on Halloween night. That way, friends and family
can get together and you can plan a healthy menu.
~*~ A little extra physical activity on Halloween and the following
days may allow your child to have some Halloween treats without
taking extra insulin. Talk with your doctor, diabetes educator or
dietitian about how to work these treats into their meal plan safely.
~*~ At home, you can pass out toys and trinkets, like false teeth,
"slime,' necklaces, temporary tattoos, etc. Kids often like these more
than candy anyway!!!!!!
~*~ Have a Ghostly good time.

Of course, Halloween is not the only time that you should be
proactive about your child’s diabetes. Keeping your child healthy is
a constant effort, no matter what time of year. Of course, Halloween
is not the only time that you should be proactive about your child’s
diabetes. Keeping your child healthy is a constant effort, no matter
what time of year.

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