by Bob Lachniet
President -
Fitness 4 Home Superstore
Halloween. It's the unofficial kick-off to the holiday season aka the season of overeating. It doesn't have to be that way, though. There are many things you can do to keep the holiday season (Halloween included!) fun AND healthy... or at the very least as non-unhealthy as possible.
Let's start with some tips for Halloween because, as you know, it's right around the corner!
1. Don't Drive. Walk!
When I was a young kid, we walked from house to house, neighborhood to neighborhood. As I got older, my parents walked with me. These days, I see parents driving their kids from house to house. If you're going to take your kids out trick-or-treating, DO NOT DRIVE. You don't necessarily need to get all dressed up, but do get out there and walk the neighborhood. If you do not live in a safe neighborhood, drive to one that you feel comfortable in. Park your car and walk the rest of the evening. This will help you and the kids get some much needed exercise, as well as spend some quality time together (and it lets you keep an eye on them as well). Don't have any kids? Go with friends that do!
2. Be a Good Moderator.
If I can guarantee one thing about Halloween night, it's that your kids are not going to take it upon themselves to moderate how much candy they eat. From the time that first mini candy bar hits that bottom of the bag to the time that last one is being unwrapped, your kids are on a sugar binge. Sure, it's Halloween and that's what they're "supposed" to do, but in all actually, binges are dangerous. They can lead to melt-downs, momentary losses of control and short-term behavioral issues.
To help control the situation before any of these things happen, you must plan ahead. Allow your children (and yourself) to select 1 or 2 pieces of candy to enjoy with a balanced packed lunch or each night after a healthy dinner. The sweet treats will last a lot longer and you'll avoid a sugar binge. If the temptation is just too much and you find it impossible to shut off the candy supply, throw it all away - it's not worth keeping.
3. Find Healthier Stuff.
Almost everyone I know loves chocolate. Some admit that they're addicted to it, while others swear it's better than, well, it's just the best. The great thing, though, is that chocolate has a lot of really great qualities and, in moderation, can very much be a part of a healthful lifestyle.
Studies have shown that dark chocolate has high levels of antioxidants and may also help lower blood pressure. It has also been associated with the release of endorphins, our "feel-good hormones" - the same ones you get from a runner's high.
4. Focus on Fun, Not Food
There is much more to Halloween than chocolate bars and candy. You and your family can find fun in making your own costumes and showing them off at school, work or parties. And if you aren't the dressing up type, it might even be fun to check out the creativity of others.
There are also a ton of great Halloween activities and party ideas to enjoy with your kids, your friends and with other loved ones. Apple-bobbing, pumpkin carving, costume parties - see what you and your family can "scare" up!
5. Cut Yourself Some Slack
Everyone is entitled to falling off the wagon at some point or another so don't beat yourself up over it. Accept that fact that you over-indulged and try to make your next snack or meal a healthy one. Throw in a little extra exercise in the next few days and you're right back on track, both physically and mentally.
