Healthy Halloween: Six Ways to Handle Leftover Candy
Stuck with leftover Halloween candy? You’re not alone. Here are six nutritionist approved ways to put those extra sweets to good use.
Tip #1: Nothing but the highlights
Have your children go through their bag of Halloween candy and pick the candy they’d like to keep. Then give away whatever they do not want so they don't end up eating it just because it's available to them.
Tip #2: Daily limits
Limit your children’s intake of candy to only one or two pieces a day. Store the candy in a high cabinet where they can’t reach it and where it’s out of site.
Tip #3: Buy it back
After a day or two, consider “buying back” the leftover candy for a reasonable price (for example, each piece of leftover candy is worth a dollar). Or, exchange the candy for a fun activity like taking them to the park, the mall, or allowing them to have a sleepover with friends.
Tip #4: Pay it forward
Donate the candy to our troops (check out operationshoebox.com) or to a food pantry or shelter.
Tip #5: Save it for later
Freeze leftover candy to enjoy a little at a time over several months or save for the next special occasion (like birthday party goodie bags or a piñata) or for holiday baking/ginger bread houses/advent calendars.
Tip #6: Switch out the candy for something better
Here are some healthy & sweet alternatives to candy:
- Yogurt parfaits: layer plain yogurt, fruit (like strawberries, blueberries, etc.), and granola (look for low sugar, high fiber brands like Bear Naked)
- Graham cracker treats: top graham crackers with peanut butter and a thin layer of hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- Homemade trail mix: combine dry-roasted or raw peanuts, almonds, and cashews, semi-sweet chocolate chips (or leftover Halloween candy), and dried fruit (like raisins, dried apricots, or dried apples)
- Fruit Dippers: dip favorite fruit like apple slices, banana slices, and strawberries in peanut buttter, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt mixed with a little honey and cinnamon
Want more great nutrition tips? Speak with a nutritionist on Amwell.