Healthy Halloween Treats and In Home Senior Care
The holiday most widely known for sugary treats and candy will be here in just a few short days. Halloween is a fun day to dress up and indulge in candy and sweets. While these delectable treats are tasty, they aren’t always the healthiest choice for a snack; especially for an elderly person who may be coping with health issues such as diabetes.
Initially, it may sound unappealing to switch out traditional snacks for healthy holiday treats. With just a little bit of research, there are many ways to substitute unhealthy ingredients in subtle ways that will still be tasty and better overall. It’s important to remember that no matter how healthy a treat is, portion control is still key to combatting the festive feast weight gain.
Caramel apples are a traditional treat during fall at Halloween. Instead of the sticky covering, try substituting dark chocolate which is rich in antioxidants. Foods high in antioxidants can help to prevent heart attacks and stroke. After dipping in melted dark chocolate chips, add some yummy decorations such as crushed nuts.
Little tangerines or clementine oranges can be made into tiny pumpkins. Just cut up some celery to add a stem and a food-safe marker to draw a jack-o-lantern. This Halloween treat is not only adorable, but also packed in nutrients and vitamins that help protect eye sight and heart health.
If your elderly loved one is craving ice cream try substituting frozen or regular yogurt. Added healthy toppings such as honey and fruit will provide a boost in color and flavor.
There’s no reason to believe that a healthy holiday treat will be tasteless or boring. There are many ways to make a traditional holiday treat better for you. You could substitute unrefined whole wheat pastry flour, natural sweeteners, and nutrient-packed ingredients such as heart-healthy nuts, dried fruits and 60 percent dark chocolate to your tasty holiday treats. Many recipes allow for a substitution of olive or canola oil in place of fatty butter.
If you would like to learn more about the many benefits of caring and consistent in home care for seniors and professional dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to an elderly care specialist today 314-968-2273! Senior Helpers of Webster Groves provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, care for Parkinson’s Disease, companionship, personal assistance, and so much more to all areas of Webster Groves, Kirkwood, Ladue, Affton, Clayton, Mehlville, and surrounding areas..