Easy Ways to Avoid Halloween Temptation

Keep your weight loss on track during the Halloween season with our simple strategies to enjoy the holiday without sacrificing your diet.

By Cynthia Pearson
Reviewed by Melina Jampolis, M.D., 2009

Halloween brings many sweet temptations, each luring you away from heart-healthy eating. Our tips will help you navigate the ghoulish season with confidence -- from treat shopping to dealing with candy leftovers.

Rule No. 1: The basics of healthy eating don't go away during a holiday.

“Eat well,” says Joanne Larsen, M.S., R.D., L.D. “Three nutritious meals with no more than four hours between them will keep you sated.” Satisfied, with your blood sugar in check, the sight and smells of Halloween temptations -- be they waving from the grocery aisle, your candy-stocked cupboard, or a friend's party -- are less intense.

Most of us do better with healthy snacks between meals, so be sure to include them in your eating plan, Larsen says. Planning (not grabbing) is the key to keeping your overall daily intake of calories, fat, sodium, and cholesterol on track.

Another tip: Stay hydrated, because thirst often masquerades as hunger. You may be tempted to eat a Halloween treat when you're really just thirsty.

Read on for smart ways to stay on track this Halloween season.