Fall is among us, and Halloween is right around the corner. Giant bags of candy seem to be popping up everywhere.
If you have been making an effort to prioritize your health, this time of year may make it difficult for you to stay on track. However, just like everything in life, good nutrition
requires balance. You should be able to enjoy foods in moderation and not fall off the healthy bandwagon.
There are a few concepts to think about this season and during the winter months ahead. Read over these simple tips and implement them with intention this Halloween!
Moderation Is Key
Halloween candy doesn’t have to be synonymous with gorging. The variety of “fun-sized” candies are perfect for enjoying a small sweet treat in moderation. Although these are a portion controlled treat, a “fun-sized” candy bar packs about 60-80 calories. Have one or two, work them into your meal plan, and savor every bite! You can always enjoy your favorite foods in moderation.
Know When To Buy Halloween Candy
Try to wait until the day of or the day before Halloween to buy trick-or-treat candy. If you have large bags of candy sitting in the kitchen for a week or two, it’s easy to get tempted and give in. What’s out of sight is out of mind, and what you surround yourself with daily consumes your thoughts. Avoid keeping candy or treats in the kitchen, and save them to hand out on Halloween night.
Eat What You Love
Remember when you were a kid and used to sort through your Halloween candy? You may have picked out your favorite pieces, and then traded the rest with a friend. If you are going to have a small treat, make sure it’s a piece of candy that you absolutely love! Don’t waste calories on a mediocre piece of candy that won’t satisfy your cravings.
Have The Kids Use Smaller Trick-or-Treat Bags
Forget pillowcases and oversized candy bags; try purchasing a smaller trick-or-treat bag for the kids. You can find something festive, and buy a few Halloween stickers for the kids to decorate the bag with. The less candy they bring home is better for the whole family, and will hopefully help avoid the dreaded candy bellyache for your kids.
Emphasize Eating Mindfully
If you are going to a Halloween party with friends or are having a themed event at work, always remember to eat mindfully. Be conscious of your choices, as every choice you make can impact your health. If you have trouble with this, try keeping a food journal on those days to be conscious of your intake. Logging your food is always a smart strategy to help you stay on track and eat mindfully.
Keep Prioritizing Exercise
Physical activity has countless benefits for your health, such as controlling weight and combating disease. If you are indulging during this time of year, balanced exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight. Plus, it can help provide a bit of wiggle room when it comes to your eating habits. Fall is the perfect time to try a new fitness class or pick up running outside in the beautiful brisk weather. Also remember to eat normally on most days and to focus on wholesome nutrition.
The fall season in general is a great time to be active with your friends and family. Get outside, go apple picking or stop at a pumpkin patch, and be sure to find a healthy balance when it comes to your nutrition.
Stefani Pappas, RDN, CPT, is a clinical dietitian at St. Francis Hospital. She is a personal trainer, fitness instructor and contributing writer for Elite Daily.
Visit www.stefhealthtips.com for more information.
