How to Take Pancreatic Enzymes with Halloween Candy
By Kay Vavrina, RDHalloween is a night full of costumes, fun, and of course, candy! For people with cystic fibrosis (CF) who take pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), sometimes it’s hard to decide: how should I take my enzymes when I’m snacking on Halloween treats? Here are a few tips to make it easier!
Treat Candy Like Any Other Snack
Enzymes aren’t just for meals. If you’re eating candy (or any snack that contains fat or protein), you’ll need enzymes to help digest it. Even small amounts of chocolate, caramel, peanut butter, or nuts can add fat that your body can’t break down without enzymes.
Match Enzymes to What You Eat
Not all candy is created equal.
- High-fat treats (like chocolate bars, peanut butter cups, or caramel candies) usually require enzymes.
- Low-fat sweets (like hard candy, lollipops, or gummy bears) may not require enzymes since they’re almost all sugar.
A good rule of thumb: if the candy has chocolate, nuts, or caramel, it needs enzymes.
Timing Matters
Take your enzymes right before you start eating candy or while you’re snacking. If you’re going trick-or-treating, keep a small supply of enzymes with you so you’re ready to enjoy treats along the way.
Don’t Forget Balance
Candy is fun, but it’s not the only treat! Pairing candy with other snacks like nuts, cheese, or trail mix gives you more nutrition. But don’t forget your enzymes!
Make It Fun
For kids, carrying enzymes in a festive pill case or pouch can make it feel like part of the holiday instead of a chore.
Bottom Line:
Take enzymes with high-fat Halloween candy just like you would with any other snack, time them right, and enjoy the holiday without tummy troubles. That way, candy can stay a treat, not a trick!