When I was growing up, the main thing we worried about at Halloween was a non-packaged item that might be given to us by “freaks.”I do find it somewhat ironic that, of all things, we were warned about apples.Back then we weren’t concerned about genetically modified or organic varieties of apples.

No, then we were worried that the apple might have had a razor blade slipped inside.But these days, I do worry at Halloween.I worry about what’s beneath the wrappers of these so-called candy treats.They’re not quite as sweet as they might seem.

For many kids Halloween is a night of binge eating on candies loaded with sugar, high fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes and preservatives. For most parents I know, Halloween is a nightmare… binge eating, gluttony, poor behavior, upset stomachs and more resulting from too much junk.

So many parents don’t want to be perceived as a “Debbie Downer” so they go along – telling themselves that it’s just one night,  when in fact, the candy haul from Halloween can last well into the New Year.

I’m here to report that you don’t have to settle for candy packed with ingredients that are known to cause issues for kids. Say no to increased sugar cravings and behavioral troubles.

Did you know that regular candy is loaded with ingredients that can compromise your child’s immune system, destroy her concentration, cause hyperactivity and ADHD-like symptoms? Many other ingredients can cause gastro-intestinal issues and inflammation.

For example, artificial dyes are used in this country (while illegal elsewhere in the world) and have been linked to allergies, hyperactivity and more, according to a study published in Lancet.

It doesn’t have to be this way.Parents, take heed.This year your candy cheat sheet is here.  It’s your survival guide for this Halloween.

If you’re new to the revolution to “green” Halloween then you may want to start by simply buying a different candy or treat alternative.Start with something that’s free of artificial dyes and preservatives,  go non-GMO, or select an organic item.  Maybe discard the candy altogether and look for a treat alternative – something that isn’t technically a candy and has more nutrients than most candy.

Consider hosting a Green Halloween party to keep the kids in.Don’t sacrifice any of the fun but control the treats and give them better alternatives!

If your kids don’t want to give up trick-or-treating altogether, then do a ‘Switch Witch’ or ‘Candy Buy Back’ where you trade them their regular treats for candy that you buy that’s a healthier choice.

Be sure to provide a storage jar or box where they can see their candy and select an item a day, to be eaten after they’ve eaten a well-balanced meal.  Use this to teach portion control and responsible eating habits as well as to monitor the amount of candy consumed. This helps you deal with excessive tendencies before they turn problematic.

From here on, the fun is all yours!  Enjoy Halloween, without any unnecessary frights!

By Amy Ziff

This post previously appeared on Mommybites.com

Amy Ziff is the Founder & Chief Capidealist at Veritey. When she’s not vetting products she’s usually found playing with her 3 kids, jumping on their favorite trampoline from Trampolinea, or finding ways to get fruit stains out of clothes naturally!

For more Hallowen thoughts  follow us on Facebook facebook.com/greenhalloween or Twitter @greenhalloween

2013 Green Halloween® Blog Carnival

Can you believe it, Halloween is only one month away? We at Green Halloween®  are so excited for all the costumes, snacks, decorations, and party-favors we are going to make (and swap) this month. Of course, we need to remember why it is so important to be aware of what you buy, use, and eat this time of year.

• Many store-bought face paints contain harmful chemicals, or even lead
• High-fructose corn syrup (which does not exist in nature) and is linked to various health issues, like child obesity and dental problems. For treat ideas check out our Treat Alternatives list and the Candy Cheat Sheet.
• Swapping half the costume kids wear at Halloween would annual landfill reduce waste by 6250 tons
• Friends and neighbors may have allergies to gluten, soy, corn, and nuts. Or, they are on special diets.
•  Over 6,000 chemicals are used in the processed foods industry. Do you know what you are eating?
• Cocoa farms often exploit their workers (who are usually children).

And that is just a taste of the Halloween horrors out there. We know that you want to do the best you can for your family and the planet. So, our fabulous bloggers have a few ideas on how to have an awesome Green Halloween!

• Here are a few of our favorite tips. Check out all the links here.
• Want your kids to eat fruit at a party? Make a watermelon brain! Definitely not for squeamish snackers (99 Cooking)
• Compost your pumpkin (Climate Mama)
• American Apparel (a brand of clothes made in the USA) has a Halloween look book. A piece from their store might be a great base for a costume. They have options for kids and adults. (Made in the USA Challenge)
• Show your appreciation and send your candy to the Troops (Today I Ate a Rainbow)
• Busy? 6 items will get you a classic Charlie Brown costume for your baby. The best part? It’s a no-sew costume! (Working Mom Goes Green)
• Make a Scarecrow out of old clothes for the front yard. They don’t call it “Scare” for nothing, right? (Non-Toxic Kids)
• Trick-or-treat for UNICEF. Help children in developing countries receive clean water, proper nutrition, and education. (Groovy Green Livin)

Thanks to all our bloggers for helping us #takeback Halloween! Stay tuned throughout the month for other great ideas for a fun and eco-friendly Green Halloween!