Registered dietitian Emily Szatrowski, who specializes in helping people improve their relationship with food, says adults shouldn’t feel guilty about indulging in Halloween treats.
She notes that many adults try to “save up calories” for sweets or punish themselves afterward, which often backfires.
For those who feel out of control after overindulging, she advises self-compassion over shame.
Talk to yourself the way you’d talk to a friend. Enjoy it, then move on.
Guilt can sometimes open the door to more bad decisions – and there is a name for that.
Her final takeaway? One night — or even a few days — of sweets won’t derail a healthy lifestyle.
Your health is about long-term patterns, not one holiday.
Candy can be part of a joyful, balanced relationship with food.