Many people struggle to balance their health goals while enjoying Halloween. After all, the night is filled with so many treats that it can be tricky not to overindulge (see what I did there?).
It is easy to respond with an all-or-nothing approach. Some people avoid all sugary treats, leaving them feeling deprived. Others decide they will have all the candy they want and end up feeling guilty or bloated. There is no judgment for anyone who chooses one of these options. However, neither of the extremes tends to lead to enjoyment.
Enjoying life is part of the reason we want to be healthy. I mean, that is the ultimate goal, right? So, what if we ditched the rigid thinking and found a way to bring more balance? For my family, finding the balance has been challenging, but we have discovered some things that make it a little easier.
Let's embrace the magic, ditch the extremes, and set yourself up for a "healthier" Halloween.
Tips For a Healthier Halloween
Tip #1: Pass out something besides candy
One of my favorite houses to trick-or-treat at growing up had a jar of foreign coins. The top of the jar was small, but you could take anything you could grab between your fingers. The little ones definitely had an advantage! It was fun to see the foreign currency and figure out what country it was from.
Tip #2: Choose candy that doesn't tempt you
Sitting by a bag of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups all night would not be a good choice for me. I like them too much! Even if I did resist them, why would I want to spend my energy on that? Just give out candy that is less appealing to you, so the temptation isn’t as strong. The candy you choose will likely be someone else's favorite.
Tip #3: Read the Ingredients
Consider each ingredient separately before deciding to eat something. Watch out for high fructose corn syrup, food coloring, and hydrogenated oils when making your decision. If you wouldn't eat them separately, do you want to eat them at all?
Tip #4: Set a limit for yourself and stick to it
Decide how many pieces of candy you want to eat ahead of time. Set that amount aside so you don't unconsciously grab pieces from the bowl without realizing it.
Tip #5: Go for a walk
It might be a little chilly out, but it is a great day to go outside to chat with your neighbors. Being social and moving your body can prevent you from thinking about that bowl of candy.
Tip #6: Eat a healthy lunch and dinner (and have healthy snacks available)
Do not pass out candy (or trick-or-treat) on an empty stomach. Earlier in the day, focus on eating enough quality proteins and fats to keep you full and satisfied longer. Keep healthy snacks out and available throughout the evening. Make sure they are prepared ahead of time, so they are as easy to grab as the candy.
Tip #7: Get the candy out of sight
Make a plan to handle the leftover candy. You may want to get it out of the house; otherwise, put it in a place where it won't tempt you. Some people give a portion to local first responders, donate it to a food pantry, or let the "Switch Witch" take it. Consider your child's feelings as you decide what to do, and set their expectations ahead of time.
Tip #8: Limit candy from trick-or-treating
It can be easier to reduce the amount of candy brought home than it is to take a child's candy. Limiting the number of houses you go to or the length of time you trick-or-treat will keep the volume of candy lower.
I hope you feel inspired to make choices that bring you joy and support your health!
Dr. Jamie