Type 1 Diabetes – Trick or Treating with Type 1

If you have a child with Type 1 Diabetes, you know that during the Halloween season, it can be particularly hard to keep your child away from candy. Here are some tips to help keep your child safe and healthy this Halloween season.

Speak with His or Her Teacher
Many children exchange candy in school during the Halloween season. Make sure that you set aside time to write your child's teacher a note or speak with him or her in person to reinforce how important it is that your child does not eat candy - even if all of the other children are eating candy.

Buy Sugar-Free Candy
Sugar-FreeEven if you don't give your child candy at any other time during the year, Halloween may be a time when it is allowable to give your child sugar-free candy. There is now a sizeable section of sugar-free candy in most stores - and sometimes this candy replicates the real thing (such as sugar-free jelly beans!

Remind Your Child When to Seek Treatment
No matter how well-behaved your child is, remember that children are notorious for breaking the rules. Therefore, reinforce the importance of keeping sugar out of your child's system during this time. Also remind your child what he or she needs to do if he or she breaks the rules by eating candy. He or she should know what the signs and symptoms are of high blood sugar and should be aware of how and where to get help fast.

There's Nothing Wrong with Pretzels
Pretzels may not be okay for Diabetics to snack on during the rest of the year because of their high levels of carbohydrates and minimal health benefits, but when stacked up against candy, pretzels may be a good alternative. Look for pretzels and other snack food in the candy isle during Halloween - you can usually find a multi-variety pack that your child might enjoy as a seasonal treat.