Health officials urge low-cal Halloween fare

By The Associated Press

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CHICAGO (AP) – Health authorities concerned about childhood obesity are urging parents to make this a healthy Halloween.

The University of Illinois Extension says think about offering low-calorie, low-fat options instead of sticky, gooey candy for trick-or-treaters. Their suggestions include cheese sticks, small boxes of raisins, or rubber spiders and small change.

The U of I office also suggests feeding kids a healthy meal before they go trick-or-treating so they’re not tempted to gorge on candy.

The Consortium to Lower Obesity in Chicago Children’s Web site lists a healthy Halloween celebration Friday at Kells Park on the Northwest Side, featuring tumbling, dancing and healthy treats.

About 17 percent of schoolchildren nationwide are obese, but local authorities note that rates are even higher in Illinois and Chicago.