You can’t eat it if it’s not there.
Studies show that we eat more of a food if it’s visible, because every time we see it, we have to make the same decision: “Will I or won’t I eat it?” What can you do? Well, if there’s a candy bowl at work. take the long way around to your office to avoid it.
Steer your cart away from the Halloween aisle in the grocery store. And most importantly, wait until the last minute to buy candy for your neighborhood trick-or-treaters. And one more tip: buy the kind of candy that you DON’T LIKE, so you won’t be tempted to eat it, whether you see it or not!
Go ahead — be that neighbor who hands out healthier choices.
A group of parents and health organizations created a new Halloween tradition recently: the teal pumpkin. When you see a teal pumpkin at a neighbor’s house on Halloween, it signals allergy-free treats, gluten-free treats, and/or healthier Halloween choices. You can buy a teal pumpkin sign or try this beautiful life-like teal pumpkin!
Halloween Candy for Heroes.
Allow your kids a day or two to indulge in their treats, then give it an expiration date – the day that all the candy must be out of the house. Consider sending it to the U.S. troops and first responders through Operation Gratitude’s Halloween Candy for Heroes program. Or simply toss the treats and don’t feel guilty! Your health is worth it!
Buy just enough candy for an hour or two of trick-or-treaters.
When you’re out of candy, it’s okay to turn off your porch lights and call it a night. Your weight goals will thank you. In an article from WebMD, Lona Sandon, MEd, RD, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, says, “All it takes is an additional 100 calories a day or the equivalent of one snack-sized candy bar and most adults will experience weight creep before they even know it.”
Take extra care of yourself this month and be proud of your choices.
Drink at least half your weight in ounces of water each day. Eat more fresh greens and put them in juices or protein drinks. Greens are a natural detoxer. Stick to your regular mealtimes and stay (or get) active! Fall is a great time to enjoy the cooler air for biking, hiking and walks. And exercise releases natural hormones like dopamine and serotonin – the same chemicals your body releases when you eat chocolate!
And finally, if you do indulge, don’t beat yourself up and don’t go overboard. Get back on track as quickly as you can.
Hi, I’m Linda. As a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, my passion is empowering my clients to take control of their relationship to food, their health, and their overall wellbeing. Nothing makes me happier than my clients who have reached their goals and are symptom-free, lighter, and have more energy and confidence than ever before! 