Halloween is here and so is the candy… I’ve devised some tricks, not treats, to keep the candy calories at bay. Start the holiday by filling a bowl full of yummy, healthful snacks that include pears, apples, and your other favorite fruits and nutrient-dense grab-and-go items. Snack on these instead of the bowl of candy while the ghosts and goblins ring your doorbell. Speaking of that bowl of candy, leave it by the door, on the porch, or somewhere where you can’t easily grab a treat. Even better, get out of the house and walk with your kids or your friends’ kids as they collect treats – you get the benefit of spending time with friends AND getting in your steps!

Now that all of that collected candy is in the house, put it out of sight – maybe in a cabinet or pantry. Small amounts are fine now and then for you and the little ones, but studies suggest that if you put temptations out of sight you are less likely to snack! Also, take the candy out of the Halloween-themed bag or pumpkin and put it into a plain bag. This allows storage that doesn’t call out for you to grab a treat every time you see it. Happy Halloween!

Halloween fun fact: Did you know that pears don’t float? Pears are denser than apples; that’s why we bob for apples on Halloween!