Typically, that means candy. Lots and lots of candy. And that translates to a whole load of calories and sugar.
If you want to indulge in the occasional Reese's Peanut Butter Pumpkin in the spirit of the holiday, but plan on doing so in moderation , keep this guideline in mind: Only 10 to 20 percent of your total daily calories should come from junk food, says Men's Health nutrition advisor Alan Aragon, M.S.
So if you're an average active guy that needs 2,800 calories a day , you have roughly 280 to 560 calories to spare on not-so-great options. To put that in perspective, two Reese's peanut butter cups will get you 210 calories , not leaving you much wiggle room throughout the rest of your day.
That being said, if you want to enjoy yourself on Halloween, go ahead and live a little. But if you want to opt for something a little better for you to stay on track, the good news is you can tame your sweet tooth with equally tasty options, like the following protein shake recipes. (Bulk them up with this super nutritious whey protein powder from the Men's Health store.)
Now, we know that nothing can ever really replace the delight a candy bar full of chocolate, caramel, and creamy peanut butter can bring to your taste budsbut these sweet blends come pretty dang close. Try one out when your sugar cravings hit.
HERSHEYS CHOCOLATE INSPIRED PROTEIN SHAKE
This Death by Chocolate shake, created by Mike Roussell, Ph.D., author of The Metashred Diet from Mens Health, is designed to help you burn fat. Bonus: Its freaking delicious.
Blend this:
- 1 1/4 scoops chocolate protein powder (Any whey or casein protein powder that has less than 3 grams (g) of fat and less than 3 g of carbs will work.)
- 3 Tbsp walnuts
- 1/4 cup almonds
- 2 Tbsp cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 2 Tbsp cacao nibs
- 2 cups water
- 4 ice cubes
577 calories, 49 g protein, 24 g carbs (11 g fiber), 34 g fat
Related: 24 High-Protein Foods That Will Help You Build Muscle
JUNIOR MINT INSPIRED PROTEIN SHAKE
Okay, so you may miss that amazing gooey center Junior Mints are known for, but this shake serves a hefty dose of chocolate-y goodness and the perfect hint of mint.
Blend this:
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 3/4 cup dark chocolate almond milk
- 1 Tbsp walnuts
- 2 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 Tbsp cacao nibs
- 2 mint leaves
- 4 ice cubes
- 1/4 cup water
292 calories, 25g protein, 32g carbs, 12g fat
Related: The Best Protein Bars For Men
REESES PEANUT BUTTER CUP INSPIRED PROTEIN SHAKE
Meet your new favorite afternoon snack, since it will keep you feeling full with a good mix of protein and fiber. Itll also satisfy your peanut butter chocolate cravings.
Blend this:
- Water as needed
- 2 Tbsp flaxmeal
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 Tbsp natural peanut butter
- 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder
347 calories, 33 g protein, 19 g carbs (9 g fiber), 17 g fat,
Related: These Peanut Butter Protein Bombs Will Make Your Muscles Grow
ALMOND JOY INSPIRED PROTEIN SHAKE
Looking for a creamy, decadent treat? This blend of almond butter, chocolate, and coconut will hit the sweet spot.
Blend this:
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 cup Silk Almond milk, dark chocolate
- 1 rounded Tbsp almond butter
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 3 ice cubes
405 calories, 27 g protein, 33 g carbs, 21 g fat
Related: 6 Reasons to Eat a Handful of Nuts Every Single Day
ORANGE STARBURST INSPIRED PROTEIN SHAKE
For the fruity candy lovers of the world, you cant beat old school Starburst. This shake gets you that same orange tang without the excess sugar.
Blend this:
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 orange
- 1/4 orange peel
- 1 Tbsp walnuts
- 2 Tbsp flaxseed meal
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 3 ice cubes
399 calories, 32 g protein, 39 g carbs, 14 g fat