Whether you’re an adult with diabetes or parent of a child with diabetes, it can be especially difficult to control blood sugar levels during October. Candy and sweets are strongly associated with Halloween. Many diabetic children may even feel left out when they see other kids going trick-or-treating and enjoying those candy hauls. Halloween parties are also a hazard for all diabetics, as party hosts like to set out all manner of sweet treats to entice guests.
If you have trouble with this time of year, consider trying a few of these tips to help you survive Halloween!
#1 Keep Alternative Treats in the House
Avoid the urge to overindulge in candy at home by keeping other types of snacks around. Since Halloween is a time when many people watch scary movies, you might consider some popcorn. Or pick up some fruit and nuts to keep in a bowl on the table. Whatever it is, make sure it’s food that you like to eat, that is easy to snack on, and that is diabetic friendly.
#2 Take Control of Halloween Candy
It’s okay for diabetic kids to go trick-or-treating, and they should have the opportunity to participate in this annual activity. Just make the focus about costumes, going out at night, and seeing a lot of different people and their costumes too. When you get back home, allow a few pieces of candy as a treat. Then, “hold onto” the rest of their candy and keep it someplace out of reach. You can give them one or two pieces a day in their lunch boxes until it’s all gone.
#3 Consider a Candy Exchange
Another option is to look for candy exchange programs in your area. Some dentists and local churches allow children to bring in their Halloween candy in exchange for other treats, or even money. If there isn’t a program in your area, you can create one at home. Ask your children to trade-in their candy in exchange for special coupons to get out of chores or a toy that they really want.
#4 Don’t Give Out Halloween Candy
You can still hand out treats during Halloween, just focus on other things instead of candy. Some people like to hand out coins, small toys, and stickers or temporary tattoos. This helps diabetics stay away from candy because they don’t have it on hand, but they can still participate in the fun of Halloween night.
#5 Focus On the Fun
If you’re at a Halloween party or another event, try to refocus your attention away from the food and onto other things. There is lots of fun to be had during Halloween, such as games, movies, scary stories, and comparing costumes with each other. Once you get into the celebration, you won’t think about those sweets.
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