Halloween Temptations

As a child Halloween is about picking out the perfect costume, parties at school, and lots of tricks and treats. But as an adult, this can be a very dangerous time of year and I don’t mean the scary skeleton in your neighbor's window. I am talking about the pumpkin cookies, the mud/worm pies, tiny candy bars in every flavor, and even that candy dish at work which has been continuously filled since September 1st. Don't forget the adult Halloween parties which are non-stop snacking and treats in a glass. The ever so yummy hot apple cider and rum, who can resist that right?

Here are a few tips to hopefully get you through this season:

#1 - It’s OK not to eat every treat your co-workers bring in. Don’t let them pressure you into having a huge slice of pumpkin pie with cool whip at 8 AM. On the flip side, it’s also OK to have one or two pieces of candy per day. But that’s it. (If you can’t handle just one or two, then don’t have any). If you can, have yourself a handful of candy corn. This will not ruin your diet. Just make sure it’s all accounted in your calories. Denying yourself these things will become the destruction of your workout/healthy-self.

#2 - What do you do if you’re the mom who has to make cupcakes with the candy ghosts, goblins, and gummy worms on top for school? Don’t lick the bowls and spoons when you’re done (huge number of unaccounted calories). Quickly throw everything in a sink of hot water and don’t offer it to your children. They don’t need it either. Make sure you send ALL the snacks to school. Don’t leave any at home. If you can get away with skipping the cupcakes, cakes, pies, etc. then try and make a healthier snack choice for the school parties.

#3 - Put together some yummy trail mix in cute Halloween gift bags and throw in a handful of M&M’s. This way you won’t become the mean health-nut mom at the parent/teacher meetings. Or cut up small apple chunks, sprinkle with nutmeg and cinnamon and dry them in your oven or dehydrator. Add pumpkin seeds to the mix. They are healthy for you as well. Watch the sodium levels when using soy sauces or lots of regular salt to your pumpkin seeds.


#4 - When your child comes home from trick-or-treating, (this one is going to hurt) take half the candy and toss it out (when they aren’t looking of course). Or limit the amount of houses you take them too. Kids don’t need this kind of sugar rush. It causes bad habits as an adult. Why do you think you are so tempted by the candy dish at work? It’s OK to let them have a few, as it’s all about tradition and you don’t want to strip them of holiday memories. But try and make healthy memories for them as well. Memories other than that linked to candy.

#5 - Go to a hotel with a pool Halloween night. With all the money you are saving on NOT buying the neighbors candy, you can spend a fun night with your kids. Swim until the pool closes, play some games, wear them out, make your own traditions. The children can’t see what’s going on outside to be jealous of their friends. After a few fun years, they won’t even miss the candy tradition. Your also not home, lights out, and no one will expect you to be passing out junk food. It’s a good message to your friend/neighbors who have been giving you a hard time for your healthy ways.

We hope these tips help you through this candy filled holiday. Enjoy the time with your family and not with the calories.