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Some holiday alternatives to candy are fruit or vegetable dishes that are fun, festive and appealing to children. Make an effort to make or buy healthy holiday desserts. If candy is the only option, try to limit your child to one or two pieces.
- Fancy pears
- Tangerines
- Nuts they have to crack themselves
- No sugar added hot chocolate
- Cinnamon toothpicks
There are plenty of healthier options you can offer your child to satisfy a sweet tooth! Depending on the age of your child, the following options may be appropriate.
Healthier sweet treats you can try include:
- Dark chocolate-covered fresh fruit or fondue
- Cinnamon dusted or cocoa roasted nuts
- Warm apple sauce with cinnamon
- Chocolate covered pretzels
- Baked apples stuffed with raisins, cinnamon, slivered almonds
- Baked fruit cobblers or streusels made with a topping of old fashioned oats, minimal brown sugar, and a plant-sterol containing spread instead of butter or margarine
- Dark chocolate bark with dried fruit and nuts
- Hot chocolate made with skim milk (be mindful of the temperature before serving to children)
- Peppermint patty chocolates typically have fewer fat calories than many leading brand chocolate candies.
Continue Learning about Healthy Holidays
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.