Choosing a healthy candy can certainly serve its purpose. But do you have to swap out your beloved Swedish Fish with a lower-sugar and higher-fiber version? Not necessarily.
It's essential to recognize that a balanced diet allows for moderation and occasional indulgences, including traditional candy options. The key is to enjoy sweets in moderation while ensuring they fit into a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By focusing on overall dietary patterns rather than individual restrictions, it's possible to enjoy a variety of treats without compromising nutritional goals.
But if you're just as satisfied enjoying a better-for-you choice than an OG version, or you have a dietary restriction that requires you to avoid certain ingredients like sugar, artificial dyes, or allergens, making that swap is unlikely to result in any negative effects, and it may help support your healthy lifestyle. Plus, it's always nice to include a variety of options in your trick-or-trick offerings, so all the little gremlins and goblins who show up at your door have a chance to enjoy a sweet treat this Halloween.
Lauren Manaker (she/her) is an award-winning registered dietitian and freelance writer who is passionate about providing evidence-based nutrition information in a fun and interesting way. Lauren is a PS Council member.
