Children with Diabetes & Halloween Treats: The Risks and Sweet Alternatives

Philadelphia, PA, October 11, 2004– 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.

Nadine Uplinger, MS, RD, CDE, Director of the Gutman Diabetes Institute at Albert Einstein Medical Center, warns that 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,” says Uplinger.

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,” explains Uplinger.

What about reduced-sugar or sugar-free candy? Not a good idea, warns Uplinger, 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,” she adds.

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.

“Some basics that you can do to keep your child’s diabetes stable, year-round, is to read the nutritional information on the back of all food packages in order to ensure that what you are purchasing contains the correct amount of carbohydrates and fat for your child’s specific needs. If you aren’t certain of how much fat and carbohydrates your child should be eating at each meal, contact a registered dietitian, preferably one who is also a certified diabetes educator to discuss meal planning,” says Uplinger.

Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, a member of the Jefferson Health System, provides healthcare services through Albert Einstein Medical Center, Germantown Community Health Services, Willow Terrace (a nursing home), Einstein at Elkins Park, MossRehab, Willowcrest (a center for subacute care), Belmont Behavioral Health and a number of outpatient and satellite locations. Einstein also operates a primary care network, Einstein Neighborhood Healthcare. For more information, visit www.einstein.edu or call 1-800-EINSTEIN.

Publish date: October 11, 2004