Micromanaging your child’s candy consumption this Halloween might do more harm than good, experts say. While it’s normal for parents to worry about sugar intake, focusing too much on limiting candy can lead to unhealthy relationships with food, such as binge eating or extreme restriction.
Oona Hanson, a parent coach, explains that “sugar has become the boogeyman in our current cultural conversation,” making it understandable for parents to be concerned. However, registered dietitian Natalie Mokari recommends embracing the joy of the holiday and allowing kids to enjoy their candy in moderation, as restricting it can make sweets even more desirable.
Excess added sugar is associated with cardiovascular disease and a lack of essential nutrients.
Experts agree that having a healthy relationship with food involves balance. Instead of trading candy for toys or completely removing sweets, parents can create a plan with their kids to portion out the treats over several days. This could involve adding a few pieces to lunch or pairing them with a healthy snack.
Parents should also be mindful of their own language around food. Negative comments like “I need to work out after all that sugar” can influence a child’s perception of their body and food. Instead, parents should encourage a balanced approach to candy consumption, turning occasional tummy aches into lessons on understanding their bodies and listening to their hunger cues.
Ultimately, Halloween is a short-lived experience, and allowing kids to indulge in moderation can be a great way to teach them how to enjoy all kinds of foods in a healthy and balanced way.
