Fitting Halloween Treats into Your Diabetes Management Plan

Halloween can be a tricky holiday if you have diabetes. Even though this time of year can sometimes be overwhelming, it is possible to enjoy a Halloween treat while still staying on track with your diabetes management plan. Here are some tips and tricks to help you to do just that!

Plan it into your day!

When we make certain foods "off-limits”, sometimes it only leads to us wanting to eat them more. Instead of avoiding treats altogether, try planning a treat into your day. This may help you to feel more satisfied, and less likely to binge or graze on treats later. 

If you are carb counting, you can look at the nutrition facts label to see how many carbs are in a serving or use the list below to find a 15 gram portion of common Halloween treats:

​Sweet treat choices that = 15 grams of carbs 
​(1 carb choice)  

• 11 Peanut M&Ms 
• 24 Regular M&Ms
• 2 KitKat Sticks (½ regular sized package) 
• 1 Fun Size Milkyway 
• 3 Tootsie Rolls 
• 2 Smarties Rolls 
• 1.5 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups 
• 2 Snack Size Almond Joys 
• 1.5 Fun Size Snickers
• 4 Starburst 

Extra Tip: 
​Be mindful that the carbs in these treats are more refined, and thus tend to spike blood sugars. Eating something that is high in fiber, protein or healthy fat with your sugary treat can help to reduce a spike in blood sugars. Try some raw veggies with hummus, air popped popcorn or mixed nuts with your sweet treat. Hint: This will also help you feel more satisfied. 

Sweet Treats to Make At Home

• Chocolate Dipped Strawberries 
  • Packed with fiber and antioxidants! 
• Pumpkin Polka Dot Cookies
  • A fall-inspired treat with warm spices and melted chocolate chips. 
• No Bake Peanut Butter & Chocolate Bites
  • Not in the mood to bake? No worries! ​​

Chocolatey Popcorn
 
If you’d like more volume in your snack, mix together :

• 3 ¾ cups Air-popped popcorn (such as Skinny Pop) 
• M&M’s (11 Peanut or 24 Regular) or 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips 
• This snack provides 30 g Carbs; Cut in half for 15 g ​
• See also our Sweet & Salty Popcorn Trail Mix.

You can still enjoy Halloween!

Having diabetes doesn't disqualify you from enjoying Halloween with family and friends. By making mindful choices, you can still participate in Halloween festivities while also keeping your blood sugars in range.  
Happy Halloween! 
Jill, Dietetic Intern

Other Resources & Links: 
How many carbs are in common Halloween treats
Carb Counts for Halloween  
Diabetes Friendly Dessert Recipes ​