The chocolate season is here! The Easter long weekend puts smiles on many kids’ (and adults) faces—but not all of them.
The concern for children, (and adults again) suffering from diabetes is that the Easter period may bring on feelings of missing out or worse, putting their health at risk.
The experts at our diabetic clinic have come together in this article to give members of our community with diabetes the information and options needed to enjoy Easter to the fullest.
We cover:
- Why the fears of sugar consumption at Easter are a real concern
- Understanding sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate
- Identifying suitable products
- Incorporating these kinds of chocolate into a diabetic child’s Easter
A Sugary Easter
With aisles full of chocolate Easter Eggs, the knowledge that they are high in sugar causes parents and caregivers angst as they wonder how to safely navigate Easter, ensuring their children can participate in the fun, while also maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
The bad sugary news
Many popular chocolate easter eggs are around 55-65% sugar, meaning the average small milk chocolate bunny (100g) has 13-15 teaspoons of added sugar.
According to many sources, the average Easter Egg hunt nets between 15 and 20 eggs per person.
It’s another situation where the maths can be scary.
The good non-sugary news
With the right knowledge and preparation, it is possible for children with diabetes to enjoy chocolate in moderation.
An option to consider for children with diabetes is choosing Easter Eggs that are sugar-free and have low-carbohydrates.
💡 Having no sugar and fewer carbohydrates can help to prevent blood sugar spikes.
Additionally, these choices can also work for people aiming for weight loss.
Keep reading to learn more about sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate options, and how they may be incorporated into a diabetes management plan for children.
Understanding Sugar-Free and Low-Carbohydrate Chocolate Options
- Sugar-free chocolate products are made without added sugar, using sugar substitutes instead.
- Low-carbohydrate chocolate products are made with fewer carbohydrates than traditional chocolate products.
Both types of products can be suitable for children with diabetes, as they are less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
It’s important to note that sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate products are not necessarily calorie-free or carbohydrate-free.
These products still contain calories and carbohydrates, and should be consumed in moderation.
If you’re concerned, get in touch with us today.
Identifying Suitable Sugar-Free and Low-Carbohydrate Chocolate Products
There are many sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate products available. When browsing these products, make sure to read the nutrition labels carefully to identify suitable products and know exactly what your child may be eating.
🔎 Look for products that are sweetened with sugar substitutes like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit extract.
These sweeteners have a lower glycemic index than sugar, meaning they are less likely to cause blood sugar spikes.
Also keep an eye out for products that are labelled as “low-carbohydrate” or “sugar-free.”
Don’t forget when eating sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolates, it’s important to be wary of portion sizes.
Even though these products are lower in sugar and carbohydrates, they still contain calories as well as some carbohydrates and can contribute to weight gain.
Incorporating Sugar-Free and Low-Carbohydrate Chocolate into a Child’s Diabetes Management Plan at Easter
Sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate products can be incorporated into a child’s diabetes management plan in moderation.
When eating these products, it’s important to monitor blood sugar levels and adjust insulin doses accordingly and/or as recommended by a health professional.
Furthermore, sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolate products should not replace healthy eating habits, such as consuming a balanced diet. Rather, these products should be viewed as a treat that can be enjoyed in moderation on special occasions, like Easter.
Wrapping up
Sugar-free and low-carbohydrate chocolates can be a great option for children, or anyone, with diabetes who wants to enjoy Easter treats in moderation.
Just remember to read nutrition labels carefully, monitor portion sizes, and adjust insulin doses accordingly when enjoying these chocolates.
Ideally, parents and caregivers should work with a professional from our diabetes clinic to develop a diabetes management plan and check that your child is maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
For more information, make a booking today.