Halloween has the reputation of being one of the most sugar-centric holidays around, but it doesn’t have to be so scary. While too much sugar can lead to insulin resistance and weight gain, as well as other health issues, Atkins’ low sugar approach may naturally calm your sugar cravings. Whether you’re hunkering down at home or headed out for some socially distanced trick or treating, there are plenty of tricks for avoiding sugar while still enjoying some treats.
Trick #1: Stay active. You can work up a sweat picking the perfect pumpkin at the pumpkin patch or traipsing the neighborhood with your small crew. Getting those steps in will help compensate for any candy-related indiscretions.
Trick #2: Snack smart. Make the most of your pumpkin-carving time by turning all those pumpkin seeds into a delicious low carb snack to fuel the rest of your Halloween festivities.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Scrape the pulp and seeds out of the pumpkin, separate the seeds from the pulp and rinse the seeds in a colander under cold water and then shake dry. Spread in a single layer on an oiled baking sheet and roast 30 minutes to dry them out. Toss the seeds with olive oil, salt and your choice of spices, return to the oven and bake until crisp and golden, about 20 minutes.
You can take your pick of spices and flavorings, such as garam masala for an Indian twist, grated parmesan and dried oregano if you’re craving Italian, or chili powder, cumin and smoked paprika for a Southwestern snack.
Trick #3: Provide delicious low carb alternatives. Whether it’s a big pot of chili simmering on the stove, or you continue with the pumpkin theme with these low carb pumpkin recipes (which feature savory and sweet options for a full meal, including dessert), the ghouls and goblins in your family (no matter what age) will be perfectly satisfied.
Spiced Chicken Soup in a Pumpkin or Smokey Pumpkin and Mushroom Bisque with Maple Bacon
Trick #4: Grab an Atkins treat. You also can’t go wrong with an Atkins treat or two to enjoy as a sweet (and not scary) finale to your Halloween.