Halloween Sugar Shock

LEBANON, OH-- Americans will consume nearly 3 billion dollars in candy this Halloween season. The holiday is meant to be fun and festive, but health experts are urging families to be mindful of just how much sugar their kids are consuming during and after the holiday.

“The average child can easily consume several hundred grams of sugar on Halloween night alone – more than ten times the recommended daily limit,” says Joseph R. Kershner, DO, of Mercy Health—Lebanon Primary Care. “However, the problem isn’t just Halloween night, it’s the leftover candy that hangs around for weeks, leading to prolonged sugar intake at a time when kids are also being exposed to more seasonal illnesses.”

Research has shown that diets high in added sugar can weaken immune function, something especially important as flu season ramps up. Excess sugar has also been linked to a range of short- and long-term health concerns in children, including spikes in blood sugar, difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and mood swings. Over time, high sugar consumption is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and poor dental health.

“Parents don’t need to ban candy, but they can set boundaries that promote moderation,” adds Dr. Kershner. “Helping children understand how sugar affects their bodies is one of the best lessons you can give them during this season.”

One way to encourage moderation is to ensure your little ones’ tummies are filled before their night of trick-or-treating by starting them off with a healthy dinner. This will help reduce candy binges. Another fun idea is to introduce a candy ‘buy back’ game where you trade excess candy for small toys, outings, or other prizes. And don’t forget to reinforce healthy oral hygiene after indulging in sugary treats to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Another important step in keeping kids healthy is to ensure they have regular health checkups with a primary care provider. Having these routine visits can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, shortening the duration of illnesses and avoiding expensive emergency room visits. Simply visit mercy.com and use our 'Find a Doctor' tool to locate a provider near you.

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