Thursday, October 27, 2011

How Can I Avoid All the Candy at Halloween?

I've been successful at watching my weight for a long time now, but I'm worried about the upcoming holiday and all the treats that will be in my house. It's worked up till now just not to have these things in the house, but we have to buy some for the trick-or-treaters, and then my two kids will have their buckets full for weeks to come. How can I resist these?  Loretta R.

Hi Loretta,
It's always tough staying away from things we find tasty. Perhaps there are some types of candy that just don't tempt you? Personally I will always buy something for the trick-or-treaters that I would never eat. Maybe those Sponge Bob Crabby Patties turn you off? Or sour candies, or maybe for you it's something with peanuts that turns you off. Most of us have certain foods we really desire, and others we could take or leave. Buy the treats for kids that you could leave!
After Halloween is over? If your kids aren't used to having candy around, don't make an exception for the next month until they eat all their candy. Have them choose several they really like, and bring them to donate the rest to a food pantry or women's shelter. These kids (and adults) would surely appreciate a little treat thrown in with their regular bag of groceries, and candy is one thing food pantries don't buy for their standard stock.
You and your kids will be better off, not just for the lack of extra sugar, but also for the heartwarming donation!

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Is it okay to drink juice before bedtime?

Can we drink fruit juice before bed or is it better to have it in the morning? Is it good if refrigerated for 24 hours? And is it okay for me to drink it since my mum has diabetes?   --Lim

There is not a thing wrong with drinking fruit juice before bed. Your body has no idea what 'time' it is when it comes to eating, and your digestive system works 24 hours a day.
Fruit juices can stay fresh when covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Pasteurized and bottled juices last much longer, but it's always recommended to consume the juice within a week of opening a container, even when refrigerated.
Your mother may have to limit her consumption of fruit juices in order to control her carbohydrate and sugar intake. Excessive intake of juices (such as three or four 8-oz. glasses per day) can contribute too many calories and may affect glucose or triglyceride levels of people who have metabolic issues. Still others, with kidney disease, have to limit or avoid certain juices because of their potassium content.
If you are in good health, a 4-6 oz. glass of juice each day can contribute valuable vitamins, minerals, and energy, and should not be a cause for concern.