Ten Healthy Halloween Treats
Grocery stores started putting out Halloween treats that can put anyone into a sugar stupor. While Halloween costumes can be scary, treats do not need to be. Healthier choices do exist and you may be surprised that there is a list of alternative choices that will get your little goblins and ghosts just as excited as the typical options which are laden with sugar and fat.
- Granola Bars are available in many choices and brands. Stay away from products that are made with high amounts of saturated oils, trans fats and sweeteners. In addition, partially hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup should be avoided.
- Trail Mix is a combination of dried fruit, grains, nuts, and sometimes chocolate pieces. These mixtures are now available in individually wrapped portions perfect for snacking and portion control. Trail mixes are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
- Boxed raisins are the perfect portion size and provide an entire serving of fruit in one mini box. Due to the high vitamin and antioxidant content, raisins are a sweet tasting snack that you can feel good about eating.
- Fig cookies can be healthy choices if you choose wisely. Aim for the products that contain 100% real fruit and are made from whole grains. Be careful though, it is still a cookie so watch your portions.
- Low fat microwavable popcorn is a whole grain food thus contains fiber and a small amount of protein. They are conveniently available in single serving bags that can be slipped into any treat bag.
- Sugar-free beverages have become popular in the last several years. Grocery stores now offer sugar-free lemonade, kool aid, and tea flavors in individual serving size pouches. Try handing out sugar-free or fat-free hot chocolate mix which only has 25-50 calories per packet.
- Fruit cups are a great idea for trick-or-treating. They provide an entire fruit serving and do not have to be refrigerated.
- Sugar-free gum is a great tasting treat that lasts for a long time. Kids can still get the same enjoyment out of bubble blowing and smacking without the added sugar.
- Whole grain cheese and crackers packages are a great way to get in extra fiber, calcium and protein. Make sure to read the ingredient list and check that 100% whole wheat flour should be the first and only flour listed.
- Fruit snacks made from real fruit and real fruit juices are fat free and provide 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. They also contain 25% of the recommended intake of vitamins A and E.
Give the above treats a try this Halloween and focus on a fun and healthy holiday. Happy Healthy Halloween!!
Source:
Laura Kenny, Registered and Certified Dietitian.