As a kid growing up in a Lutheran household, we were taught a differing view of Halloween. It was a serious thing that impacted Martin Luther’s views and eventual action to reform the church. We were also warned constantly about all of the bad stuff that could have happened to the candy, from drug needles to poisoning, so I never really enjoyed the whole thing.
Once the Hubs and I met, Halloween became about his kiddos, walking the streets, waiting at curbs and seeing all of the cute costumes other kids were wearing. I began to enjoy it through their eyes. But, since we were out with them, our house stayed dark. We put up a “Sorry No Candy” sign and went about our business. Today, I see the holiday in a new way. I see the public health side of the holiday. As someone with celiac, my options are limited, and it makes for a lot of time researching what is safe and what isn’t. On another note, I’ve been educated about the hazards of sugar and it’s affects on long term health. Diabetes, obesity, heart disease, inflammatory symptoms and more have been linked. An article posted by UCSF along with countless other resources by experts provide guidelines. Most say to limit daily sugar to 6 tsps (25 g) for women, 9 tsps (38 g) for men, and an even smaller amount for children depending on their age. So, because I can’t control anyone but myself, our lights will again be off this year. Not because we will be out and about, or hate children in costumes, but because I don’t want to be a part of a growing problem. The Hubs and I will likely be in the back room watching Netflix or I’ll be in the office doing homework, but neither will be plopping sugar bombs into plastic pumpkins or pillowcases and literally feeding the issue.
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AuthorI'm Michelle, and I've got a full plate! As a full-time dietetics student, step-mom, wife, study coach, and tutor in my late 30's, some days I'm barely scraping by. But, no matter what is on my plate, it's always gluten free! Categories
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