Why is it so easy, and so tempting, to pass candy out to kids? This Halloween, maybe try making this sugar free apple cider instead for a sweet treat.
I’m at a point in my life where I’ve realized, as much as I love it, consuming sugar isn’t in the best interest of my mind, body, or soul. As I’ve progressively cut out more and more of the sweet stuff, I’ve noticed I don’t miss it. After dinner, when I want something sweet, I crave yogurt- plain- with frozen banana and almond butter. And it’s a more addicting dessert, and leaves me feeling better, than any of my old stand-ins.
And while I’ve noticed the positive impact of cutting the sugar out of my own diet, I haven’t even thought about not handing candy out to kids. I used to want to be the “cool house” kids came to. You know, the one that passed out full size candy bars? I even use candy to bribe my students at school- and I do this because I think, “hey, it works!”
I give candy to kids because its easy. It’s effective. But it’s important to remember, easy isn’t always best.
Best is looking out for a child’s wellbeing. Helping children develop healthy attitudes towards life and food is an incredible gift.
Most cravings are for . . . comfort foods, foods you had as a child. Foods that remind you of happy memories, feelings of comfort, celebrations. So why not help children develop a positive relationship with foods that support their wellbeing? Healthy foods taste good (when your tastebuds haven’t been desensitized by sugar laden, processed, high sodium junk)- and healthy food can be just as fun. It’s all in the presentation.
This recipe is for my mom, who is responsible for my absolute love of green things. Thank you for teaching me to eat my vegetables, mom!
Sugar Free (Green-Infused) Apple Cider
Ingredients
- 4 medium sized apples (I used Pink Lady)
- 1 large zucchini
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- dash nutmeg (optional)
- small piece of fresh ginger (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Juice the apples and the zucchini. It will come out a vibrant green color, but turn a lovely carmely-cider shade while it simmers. Juice ginger separately.
- Add juice and spices (not ginger) to a saucepan, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and add ginger juice to taste. Fresh squeezed ginger has quite a pungent flavor, so add slowly.
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