Special to the American

Rather than loading children’s Halloween goodie bags with sugar and calorie-loaded treats, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services suggests some healthier alternatives that have that kid appeal.

Look for individually-wrapped:

? Raisins

? Animal crackers

? Pretzels

? cracker and cheese packets

? Mozzarella string cheese

? Instant hot cocoa mix

? Single-serving boxes of cereal

? Single-serving packages of microwave popcorn

? 100 percent juice boxes

? Granola bars

? Sugar-free gum.

Eating lost of candy contributes to tooth decay as well as obesity, which can lead to type 2 diabetes as well as problem teeth and other health issues. That might make the kids happy for a moment, but in the long run it’s no good for anyone. And remember to buy individually wrapped treats, or parents are likely to throw them away.

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