Wednesday Weigh In - Halloween & Food Allergies

About a third of America's children are overweight or obese, but this doesn't always mean they are well nourished.  And the Halloween tradition - amassing large quantities of sugary treats - doesn't really help matters.  But kids wait all year to go Trick or Treating, and should be able to have some fun with it.  Here are a few ideas for keeping kids happy and healthy:

• Keep animal crackers on hand for your youngest trick or treaters. 
• Give out a healthy snack, like raisins or sugar-free chewing gum.  (Never fear, they'll STILL get a ton of candy.)
• If you're going to hand out candy, make it vitamin fortified fruit snacks.
• Be aware of food allergies or sensitivities.  Read the label on whatever you decide to hand out.  If it contains peanuts, or was made on the same machine that handles peanuts, have an alternate taste treat on hand or keep a few quarters at the ready.

Of course, inspect everything your child receives - for overall safety and for specific ingredients, if needed.  For additional tips on managing food allergies at Halloween, see:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/204361.php