3 Health-Minded Non-Candy Alternatives for Trick-or-Treating

It is well documented that too much sugar can be detrimental to children’s overall well-being as well as their oral health. Of course, you want your children as well as the neighborhood kids to enjoy their Halloween, but you don’t want to contribute to excessive stockpiles of candy.

Fortunately, you don’t have to hand out cavity-causing sweets to everyone who will come by your house for trick-or-treating. This blog post shares three non-candy alternatives that will ensure you maintain the fun of the occasion while looking out for everyone’s smiles.

Popcorn

The ideal Halloween treat is relatively low in calories, high in flavor, but not teeming with added sugar. Popcorn meets all of these criteria and comes in endless varieties and flavors, including ones that are sugar and gluten-free. Plus, it’s possible to purchase individual-sized bags to hand out that have all of the un-popped kernels removed.

Cheese

Research has shown that cheese contributes to optimum oral health in a multitude of ways. In addition to being rich in calcium (a mineral the body uses to create and maintain strong enamel), it is also low in carbohydrates, which makes it difficult for bacteria to create biofilm in your mouth that converts carbs (sugar) into acid that leads to cavities and inflammation. Cheese can also help maintain the pH balance in your mouth to prevent it from becoming too acidic.

Also, like popcorn, there are many types that include individually wrapped, single-serving portions that feature bright colors that will easily blend in with a trick-or-treater’s candy.

Bubbles

Not all Halloween handouts have to be edible, and giving children bubbles is a time-tested way of helping them have their own fun while getting a little bit of physical activity at the same time. Small bubble containers fit easily into any trick-or-treat bag, and they also don’t add to the collection of candy. Plus, some children will likely open up the bubbles immediately and add to the atmosphere of the evening as they go from house to house. They won’t even miss having a sweet treat.  

Halloween can be fun without compromising people’s oral health, and by handing these items out, not only will your home stand out from the countless others giving out candy, but you’ll also have the peace of mind that you’re looking after every child’s smile.

Meet Dr. Thomas

Dr. Preetha Thomas is a skilled holistic dentist who is dedicated to helping the Southlake community enjoy healthy smiles and healthy bodies. If you’d like more tips on how to take care of your teeth throughout the holiday season, or if you are in need of an oral health checkup, she and our team would be pleased to serve you. Contact Enclave Dental by clicking here or call 817-912-1218.