October always brings to mind fallen leaves and rain...not to mention pumpkin patches, hayrides and dressing up in costumes. In the health world, Halloween brings lots of candy and holiday parties that may sabotage your health goals. You also may be thinking about your children and making sure they have fun, but don’t over do it this season. Here are a few tips to help you and your family along the way so you can continue to achieve all your health goals!
• Have a limit. Let your children enjoy a few pieces of candy on Halloween night, but then limit the amount to one or two small pieces a day. Divide candy up in re-sealable bags and think about freezing chocolate, which can last several months in the freezer. If you are focusing on weight loss during this time, set a limit for yourself of how much candy you can have. An occasional piece of candy isn’t going to sabotage your weight loss goals.
• Slow down on alcoholic beverages at adult parties. They can add up in calories fast. Stick with one to two drinks and stick with water.
• Choose what you love. Whether you are going to a party or picking through your kids candy bag, pick what you love instead of eating whatever is there. Don’t love sugar cookies or almond joys? Skip them!
• Include exercise. Plan a haunted hike or a spooky stroll through a park or your neighborhood. Take advantage of nice weather and beautiful fall foliage during these autumn months.
• Think of fun alternatives. Kids who trick-or-treat have the advantage of receiving more candy then need-be, so try non-candy items. Kids love stickers, silly bracelets, temporary tattoos, spare change, juice boxes, pretzels, granola bars, mini water bottles and popcorn are all fun alternatives
• Read the food labels. Candy often times is high in fat, especially trans-fat. Avoid purchasing these types of treats and focus on limiting eating candy that lists hydrogenated oils as one of their ingredients.
• Have a hearty dinner before trick-or-treating. Plan a healthy meal so that your family will stay full and focused, helping them resist the use of candy to fill up an empty belly.
About Heather: Heather Stefan, RD, is a health educator and a licensed provider for Real Living Nutrition Services. She is also a wife and a mom of three young daughters who loves Halloween fun and festivities! Heather enjoys encouraging families to focus on using fresh produce, limiting processed foods, and cooking meals together. For more information about her and her weight loss services, go to www.heatherstefanrd.com