Not so sweet availability
Published 4:45 pm Wednesday, July 17, 2013
With three children, we frequent Auburn’s family-friendly events throughout the year. And, with the many afflictions that affect our country at alarming rates, which are scientifically proven to result from sugar consumption (obesity, ADHD, heart disease, tooth decay, diabetes, cancer, just to name a few), as well as sugar allergies, I am surprised each time we show up to these events only to see nearly every booth passing out only sugar laden candy to every passerby.
As information and studies surface about the dangers of sugar consumption, there are numerous others who, like us, are becoming aware and are following a path to good health. Add to that the many who suffer from ailments, which keep them from consuming sugar, and I see no reason why it is still being peddled at these events as the only option for a “treat.”
It also really amazes me to watch as my kids tell the candy pushers, “no, thank you,” only to see some who will still try and force (literally) candy into their hands.
It’s frustrating when we go to Kids Day and almost all of the prizes are candy. It’s disappointing to walk down the booth aisles at the various other festivals and have candy as the only treat option for the kids. And it’s maddening when people don’t understand a simple “no, thank you.”
As a patriot of this country, I certainly don’t stand by unconstitutional moves like those attempted in New York where citizens were told they can’t buy certain sized sodas or other unhealthy options. It’s not anyone’s place to tell someone what they can and cannot put into their own body. However, what about offering other alternatives? As much as kids like candy, they also love stickers, temporary tattoos, little prizes/trinkets, etc., and many of these are just as cost effective as candy.
Why be stuck in the misguided notion that candy is the only way to a kid’s heart? And, what about the many kids who don’t eat sugar – the kids who suffer from Type 1 diabetes, the kids with fructose and other sugar allergies, and the other kids who can’t partake for various other reasons? What message are they getting at these events? What about the kids who don’t have significant sugar issues, but whom would take another option if it were available?
After all, children are the leaders of our future. Shouldn’t we be doing our best to invest in that future, even if by a small, simple act of offering healthier alternatives? Just a thought.
– Lisa McIntyre
