Your Health

Halloween, Candy And Type 1 Diabetes

Posted: 1/7/2012

Meet Coco, a charismatic and fun-loving monkey who has type 1 diabetes. Coco helps readers understand that with planning, families and children can still experience the fun and magic life has to offer.

(NAPSI)—For parents of a child with type 1 diabetes, Halloween can seem like a tricky holiday.

Fortunately, the holiday can be filled with tricks and treats with a little planning. Here's what parents of children with type 1 diabetes need to know: Candy can be dandy—as long as it's in moderation. Despite popular misconceptions, sugar is not completely off-limits for people living with type 1 diabetes. It is important to monitor the carbohydrate counts of candy and calculate them into your child's meal plan. For parents who are still uncertain about Halloween candy, remember:

• Treats don't have to be sweets. Stickers, small toys, books, rubber spiders and other gifts make great goodies for little ghouls.

• Fun-size it. The smaller version of the real thing can be a better option for kids with diabetes.

It's helpful to have carbohydrate counts on hand to allow for the appropriate planning so your child can indulge with a little less worrying. Check blood glucose levels often, especially if your child is participating in parties, parades or strenuous activities.

These tips come from a new website, www.family.com/type1, created by Disney Online in consultation with Lilly Diabetes. The site provides inspiration, information and practical advice to families with children who have type 1 diabetes. Articles, videos and advice from caregivers raising kids with type 1 diabetes highlight ways for families to establish a new routine and let kids be kids. The site will also include seasonal content such as alternative Halloween snacks, tips on trick-or-treating and participating in school parades.

Lilly Diabetes and Disney Publishing Worldwide also launched a collection of custom books for children of various ages focusing on many of the adventures of childhood with type 1 diabetes, such as returning to school after diagnosis, going to birthday parties and playing sports. One book is part of the Mickey Mouse series, and features Coco—a charismatic and fun-loving monkey who has type 1 diabetes. Coco helps readers understand that with planning, families and children can still experience the fun and magic life has to offer.