Trick or Treat: ‘Good Candy’ vs. ‘Bad Candy’

 Halloween is just around the corner!

Here is a sample of nutritional facts for some of your favorite Halloween candy treats:
Snickers (snack size): 72 calories and 4 grams of fat- Snickers are the best selling Halloween candy next to candy corn. It is difficult to eat just one of these, which adds on the calories and refuses to make you full. Instead, candy corn has little to no fat content and is over indulging in that it will not be nearly as bad. Or, try a graham cracker with some peanut butter and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for the same effect, which is much more nutritious. Some other chocolate bar options: Payday, Peppermint Patty, or a Three Musketeer’s Bar.

Twizzlers: 133 calories and 1 gram of fat for 4 teeny-tiny pieces- This snack is very easy to eat, especially if you are not counting the tiny pieces you are indulging in. It is best to steer clear from twizzlers, especially if you are concerned about your sugar and carbohydrate intake. It is fine if you only have a few of these tasty morsels. The best substitute is real, fresh fruit for a sugar fix.

Butterfinger (snack size): 100 calories and 4 grams of fat- Firstly, this candy sticks to your teeth with a sugar coating. Also, all that sugar which includes a crunchy sugary, peanut butter center and a rich milk chocolate coating all takes you through sugar rushes. Instead, reach for a homemade peanut butter cookie if you can.

Best Halloween candy choices (in moderation): Candy corn, gummy bears, Smarties and Tootsie Pops.

Other food choices: pumpkin seeds (loaded with nutrients), chocolate covered raisins, Rice Krispies treats, apples, and pumpkin pie.