Healthy Halloween Ideas

In the past week, you've stuffed your shopping cart with candy bars, lollipops, and bags of candy corn. As tempting as it is to rip open up a bag of assorted candies to reach a sugar high, there are healthy Halloween ideas that will satisfy your sweet tooth and not hurt your waistline.

Click here for How to Have a Healthy Halloween with Homemade Treats slideshow.

Before the trick-or-treating even begins, be sure to feed your family – and yourself – a healthy pre-trick-or-treating dinner. This way, you won't be running on fumes and overindulge if you do decide to have a piece or two of candy. This can be anything from a hearty chili to fish tacos. Just make sure that you have enough protein to keep you full throughout the hours you are handing out candy.

Next, forget the candy and make your own healthy Halloween treats. Start by satisfying your crunchy craving with Apple Pecan Granola Bars. That way, instead of that chocolate covered rice bar you may be eyeing down, this will provide protein and a delicious fruity taste. If you can't avoid candy corn, try making your own Candy Corn Trail Mix. Pairing high-sugar candy corn with nuts and whole-wheat pretzels will keep you satisfied for longer than just eating the candy. If you can't slip away from Reese's peanut butter cups, try making your own Peanut Butter Squares. You will still get the same creamy taste, without the added salt and sugar.

Even though it's easy to overindulge on Halloween, stay healthy by spending time with friends and family and distracting yourself from all the candy. 

The accompanying slideshow is provided by special contributor Anne Dolce.