Your Halloween Survival Guide: 5 Tips to Avoid Total Diet Destruction

Americans spent roughly $2.7 billion on Halloween candy in 2016, according to the National Confectioners Association (NCA). If you helped yourself to way too much candy last year, you’re not alone. Don’t worry—That was then, and this is now! We have the perfect tips for your Halloween survival this year. It’s a brand new year and you’re going to get through October—and Halloween—without a shred of guilt.

I know you’re probably thinking there’s no way you can stay away from those overly friendly temptations of treats sitting on your counter top, but we promise— there are ways to avoid the candy.

Quick 1-Minute Chocolate Ricotta Dessert Mousse

Read More

Here are five tips for your ultimate Halloween survival:

1. Don’t Buy Candy Until Halloween.

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) says 57% of American households continuously fill candy bowls in the weeks and days leading up to Halloween. Chances are, Halloween—and all its fat and calories—comes early for those folks every. single. day. Despite what retailers want you to believe, you can still buy candy on October 31st. Avoid temptation by waiting until the last minute and only buy one or two bags. That way, you won’t have those tempting leftovers luring you off your diet plan.

2. Buy Candy You Don’t Like.

More than six in 10 shoppers choose their own favorites when picking out Halloween candy, says the NCA. So, try doing the opposite. You won’t be tempted to dip into the trick-or-treat bowl if you don’t like what you see. If you love anything with sugar, don’t buy candy. Give out raisins, sugar-free gum, pencils or small toys.

3. Have Your Own Sweets

On Halloween night, there’s no reason you can’t eat a nutritious dinner and then treat yourself to something sweet. You might even get fancy in the kitchen on Halloween Eve and make some Flourless Black Bean Brownies or Mini Cocoa Swirl Cheesecakes. Those options are great for an office potluck, too. You can party without feeling guilty!

4. Take the Kids Trick-or-Treating

Instead of staying home and staring at the candy bowl (wondering how you will ever reach Halloween survival), volunteer to take your kids, grandkids, or nieces and nephews trick-or-treating—and walk everywhere, if possible. That way you’re getting plenty of exercise, and you’re less likely to sneak a snack between doorbell rings. Don’t forget a stroller for the little ones!

5. Have One Piece

“All foods can fit into a healthy diet; just enjoy indulgent treats in smaller portions,” says Registered Dietician, Courtney McCormick. If you really want a bite-size Milky Way or Reese’s Peanut Butter cup, have one. You’re more likely to stick to your diet plan long-term if you don’t deprive yourself. Encourage moderation for your kids, too, if they’re going trick-or-treating. Maybe allow them to keep only their favorite candies. The rest can be donated to a local shelter or even sent overseas.