Hi Reader,

October is here, which means pumpkins, comfort meals (I love the crockpot!), and Halloween excitement 🎃.

Whether you are looking for a festive activity to do with your family, a simple snack idea, or just a little fall inspiration, these Halloween Banana Ghosts and Tangerine Pumpkins are easy, sweet, and fun to make.

You can find the activity here:
​Halloween Banana Ghosts & Tangerine Pumpkins​

Pumpkin is everywhere this time of year, from coffee shop menus to classroom parties and family gatherings. If you are looking for simple ways to enjoy the season without overthinking meals or snacks, I shared a few fun, flexible ideas in this post:

​Pumpkin, Picky Eaters & Fall Fun: Meal Planning Tips​

This season, I hope you can enjoy the foods that make fall feel like fall, whether that means chili in the crockpot, a pumpkin treat, Halloween candy, or something else entirely. All foods can fit into a healthy, balanced eating pattern, and our dietitians at From the Start Nutrition are here to help you find an approach that feels supportive, flexible, and realistic for your life. A healthy dietary pattern can include limited amounts of added sugars alongside foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy or fortified alternatives.

Did you know that research supports moving away from rigid food rules? In a 2024 systematic review of 15 studies, highly restrictive approaches to sugary foods in children and adolescents were associated with less favorable eating behaviors over time, while approaches centered on structure and balance were associated with more positive outcomes.

Wishing you a sweet and cozy October 🍂☕️

Talk soon!

Beth Conlon, PhD, RDN

Owner & Founder | From the Start Nutrition, LLC​

P.S.

We offer convenient & affordable virtual nutrition counseling for children, teens, and adults (several insurances accepted). Click here to schedule an initial consultation or follow-up appointment using our online booking system (powered by Berry Street).​