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Candy as Fuel: Top 10 Treats for High School Athletes

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How Halloween Sweets Power Your Game and The Best Options For Athletes

High schoolers have to admit that Halloween at its very least has one big pro: the candy. With all the options For athletes—especially those with a sweet tooth— candy might seem like the perfect quick fuel. But does that sugar really boost performance, or are you just setting yourself up for a crash?

Let’s break down how candy calories turn into energy for your muscles, and which treats can give you a lift without weighing you down.

How Sugar Works as Fuel for Sports

When you eat sugar, your body turns it into glucose—a fast-acting fuel source that powers muscle movement. For sports like soccer, track, or basketball, where quick bursts of energy count, this can be a beneficial boost.

But while sugar gives a quick energy boost, it can also wear off fast, leading to a drop in blood sugar or the dreaded “sugar crash.” This can leave you feeling tired, distracted, or even more hungry.

Athletes who use candy as a pre-workout fuel need to be smart. Choose candies with simple sugars for short-term energy without a lot of added fat, which can slow down digestion.

With a few smart choices, a bit of candy can give a burst of energy for practice, games, or meets. And while it’s not a substitute for a balanced diet, candy in moderation during Halloween is fine.

Top 10 Halloween Candies for Athletes

Not all candies are equal when it comes to fueling up. Here are the top 10 treats that offer quick energy with fewer drawbacks:

Gummy Bears

 

Swedish Fish

 

Skittles

 

Starburst

 

Twizzlers

 

Jelly Beans

 

Tootsie Rolls

 

Laffy Taffy

 

M&M’s (Plain)

 

Nerds

Burning Off the Treats

Here’s what it takes to burn off these Halloween treats if you indulge before or after your game:

 

These figures are general estimates—actual calorie burn depends on body weight, speed, and intensity. But it shows that while candy can boost your energy, the calories can add up fast. So if you’re going to eat candy, balance it with physical activity and healthy meals to fuel long-term performance.

When and How to Enjoy Candy as an Athlete

For athletes, the best time to enjoy candy is right before short bursts of intense activity or in small amounts during long events. Stick to lower-fat, simple-sugar candies that digest quickly, and avoid loading up too much before practice or games. Once Halloween is over, it’s smart to shift back to pre-workout snacks with more lasting energy, like fruit, nuts, or granola

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