SPOKANE, Wash. – As Halloween quickly approaches, parents may be wondering how much candy their children can safely consume.
Britney Thorpe, a clinical dietitian with MultiCare, offers guidance for the holiday. She says that candy is part of the festivities, and it is important not to overly restrict consumption on special occasions. Thorp advises, “We should be teaching them mindfulness, listening to their bodies.”
Parents worried about excessive candy intake can consider how large the Halloween pail is or the duration of trick-or-treating.
Thorpe also emphasizes the importance of maintaining balanced meals. “Make sure they’re eating balanced meals throughout the day, with protein and fiber, so candy digests quicker,” she said. By providing a nutritious dinner before trick-or-treating, kids are likely to eat less candy.
Thorpe’s advice suggests a flexible approach, allowing children to enjoy their treats while ensuring they receive proper nutrition.