Halloween is finally here! Time for the full-on rush of kids in costumes, trick or treating and bags full of candy. It’s been on our radar for a couple weeks, but now it’s time to talk about a real plan for this weekend. It’s going to be difficult managing your own eating habits in the next few days, and even more stressful if you’re going to be dealing with over-excited kids hopped up on sugar.
Remember that festivities do not begin until the evening, so eat as clean and healthy as you can all day. Don’t fall off the wagon because it’s a holiday. All of a sudden three days will have gone by that you will have to make up for. When the evening comes, take advantage of trick or treating as a little bit of exercise. Go for long walks and enjoy the decorations and kids in costumes. It’s about more than candy.
When the night finally does come to an end and you have a massive amount of candy that was collected by your kids, it’s time for the second part of the plan. You don’t want to be too strict and take away any enjoyment from them, but you also don’t want to let them eat until they’re sick. Try limiting the number of pieces they can have a day. You can let them choose what they want and keep them from overeating. You can also have them save their candy for dessert instead of a snack. Make sure they have something wholesome and healthy before they get a treat. It will also help to keep their stash out of sight, like in a cabinet or up high, otherwise they will constantly eat or beg for it. Eventually bring back healthier alternatives, like sugar free treats, cereals or trail mix.
All of a sudden it will be Monday and things will hopefully be back to normal. Already it will be November and the beginning of another week. It is crucial that you get back to your weight loss plan and don’t drag out the weekend. Holidays like Halloween are just one day. Don’t get swept up in it for too long. You should also get rid of any leftovers when the time is right. There are several organizations that accept Halloween candy that they include in care packages sent to U.S. Service Members overseas. You can also donate to local soup kitchens. Many dentists and orthodontists participate in candy exchanges where you can turn in candy and get something healthy in return, and the candy usually still goes to troops or soup kitchens.
Have a Happy and Healthy Halloween!
~Love to Live Healthy with Josephine Fitzpatrick
Innovation Weight Loss and Fitness
8031 Jerocho Tpke Wooddbury, NY 11730
469 7th Ave Manhattan, NY 10018
