Halloween: the time of year we dress up our munchkins and send them door-to-door in search of tooth-rotting goodness. It’s when we sneak candy from our kids’ stash and get a jumpstart on the holiday bulge. It’s the time of year we have a near-endless supply of sugary sweets within reach. But, are there healthy candy options? Well, candy isn’t exactly healthy, but some are less guilt-inducing than others. Read on to find the healthiest choices in your trick-or-treat loot.
Lower Calorie Candy
If you’re counting calories, check out these options:
- 3 Musketeers Minis (24 calories, less than 1g of fat)
- Tootsie Rolls Minis (Three pieces, 70 calories, 1.5g of fat)
- York Peppermint Patties (140 calories, 2.5g of fat)
- Hershey’s Kisses (Three pieces, 67 calories, 4g of fat)
- Lifesavers (15 calories, 0g of fat)
- Peeps Pumpkins (Eight pieces, 130 calories, 0g of fat)
Kid-friendly Candy Alternatives
Candy isn’t the only option for the Halloween stash. You can avoid dolling the dreaded pinch of shiny pennies with these fun alternatives.
- Fruit snacks
- Trail mix
- Granola or protein bars
- Yogurt-covered pretzels
- Dried fruit
- Goldfish crackers or snack packs
Candy Sweetened with Xylitol
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sweetener found in plants and vegetables. It looks and tastes like sugar, but has 40% fewer calories. And, because it’s natural, Xylitol is safe for people of all ages. Xylitol can improve your dental health. It prevents tooth decay and protects teeth from cavities by inhibiting the formation of harmful bacteria. People with diabetes can eat candy sweetened with Xylitol. Xylitol has a lower glycemic index than sugar, and according to the American Diabetes Association, servings with less than 5 grams are generally safe if you’re tracking carbs. If you have diabetes, check with your primary care provider before eating foods containing Xylitol.
Grown-up Tastes
Halloween brings temptation when your child’s candy-filled bowl beckons. Tempt your taste buds and keep your ghoulish figure with these grown-up tastes.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants (flavonoids) that stop absorption of cell-damaging free radicals. Dark chocolate can raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL), which can improve overall heart health. Best of all, dark chocolate makes you happy. It increases the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that fights depression. Dark chocolate also stimulates endorphins, the chemicals responsible for feeli
