Oh Another Holiday

This week I went to an Easter Egg Hunt with my two year old. I was surprised by what was put into the eggs for toddlers! Laffy Taffy, Hershey Kisses, and Peanut Butter Cups. Really? Even my teeth hurt after eating a Laffy Taffy, imagine how kids with only half their teeth feel (not to mention the dental cavities it may lead too). So what I did notice was other eggs filled with: stickers, rubber dinosaurs, fruit snacks (100% juice). And do you know what? Those kids loved the other eggs just as much, if not more, than the ones filled with candy! I understand the concept of wanting to give a treat during the holidays, but remember it does not need to be filled with sugar and additives. Special time with a parent or sibling is just as special then sharing a candy treat. Creating these associations with holidays will set our children up for "diet sabotage" as adults. They will associate all holidays and special celebrations with high calorie, low nutrient dense foods leading to overindulgence as opposed to normal snacking. Holidays and celebrations are about the moment and the family and friends you spend it with-not the food as much. Let food be the secondary focus. So next time you want to make a special holiday for your children or partner, think of a non-food related activity, such as coloring, crafts, scrapbooks, taking them to a special park, or having a family game of volleyball or softball.
So enjoy those tasty treats in moderation but remember not to focus on them. Take the time to enjoy your families and yourselves.

Cheers,

The Dieting Dietitian