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Halloween is a fun time of year, but if you’re trying to lose weight or get in shape, it can be a real challenge to stay on track. With all the candy and sweets around, it’s easy to derail your progress and end up right back where you started (or worse). But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Below are five tips to help you avoid derailing your health goals this Halloween season.
Plan Ahead and Set Some Rules
If you know that Halloween is going to be a tough time for you, plan ahead and set some rules. For example, allow yourself to have a certain number of pieces of candy each day, or only have candy on weekends. And if you have trouble sticking to rules, try setting a daily or weekly calorie goal and don’t go over that amount.
If you know you’ll be attending multiple Halloween parties or handing out candy to trick-or-treaters, make sure to stock your fridge and pantry with healthy snacks and meals ahead of time. That way, when sugary temptation strikes, you’re prepared with a healthier alternative. Common healthy snacks include fruits and vegetables, yogurt, whole grain crackers, nuts, and seeds. Meals could include lean protein (chicken, fish, tofu), complex carbohydrates (brown rice, quinoa, sweet potato), and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil).
Choose Your Treats Carefully
Just because it’s Halloween doesn’t mean you have to completely deprive yourself of treats. If you love candy bars, for example, look for ones that are made with fewer ingredients and less sugar. Or if you enjoy baking cookies or cupcakes, experiment with healthier recipes that use substitutes like almond flour or coconut sugar. By making small modifications like these, you can still enjoy your favorite sweets while limiting the damage they do to your waistline.
When you do indulge, choose your treats carefully. Opt for the mini versions of your favorite candy so you can enjoy without going overboard. Or, if you’re really craving something specific, have one serving and then get rid of the rest of the candy so it’s not tempting you later. journal about it later.
Get Moving
One of the best ways to offset the effects of all that sugar is to get moving! Exercise helps burn calories and regulate blood sugar levels, both of which are important when trying to maintain a healthy weight. If you find it difficult to stick to a regular workout routine during the busy Halloween season, try fitting in mini-workouts throughout the day instead. A few quick exercises you can do almost anywhere include jumping jacks, push-ups, sit-ups, and squats. Aim for three sets of 10-15 reps each and you’ll be surprised at how much better you’ll feel—and look!
If You Fall Off The Wagon, Get Back On Track Immediately
Everyone slips up now and then, but it’s important to get back on track as soon as possible. If you eat more candy than you planned, don’t beat yourself up about it. Just make sure that your next meal or snack is healthy and get right back to following your goals.
Halloween doesn’t have to be a health disaster just because candy is everywhere. By following these simple tips, you can indulge in a treat or two without derailing all your hard work. So enjoy the holiday and have a Happy Halloween!