Weight Watching Through Halloween

Thankfully, I am not a big candy eater. I used to eat chocolate faithfully. It took me an embarassingly long time to realize that the chocolate was giving me headaches, so I don't eat much of it anymore. Ice cream continues to be my biggest weakness. Any time, any where, there is NEVER a bad time for ice cream!

Regardless, Halloween can be a tough time for people watching their weight. Candy is all around, increasing the chances for temptation.

Here are a few tips, courtesy of Readers Digest, I use to avoid candy and avoid a potentially bumpy start to the holiday season.

1. Buy candy the day before or day of Halloween. 

Buying candy early may get you a better deal price wise, but you'll be paying for it in a more difficult way. It's harder to stay away from it if it in your face at work and home. Better to only have it around for the least amount of time.

2. Buy only the candy you DON'T like.

If you only have candy that you don't like, chances are you won't eat it. And you can buy less, because you won't be the neighborhood favorite. They'll avoid your house when you're handing out black licorice and raisins. You're welcome.

3. Follow a normal eating routine.

Don't skip meals to plan for eating candy later. Keep on track and eat your normal, sensible meals. You're more likely to binge when you don't do this. Candy is low in fiber and protein, so you'll be more apt to eat more to fill up. This only leads to regret.

4. Chew gum instead of candy.

If you feel you really want that candy, try chewing a piece of gum first. This can help both on the urge for something sweet and the chewing motion can fool your mind into thinking you're eating. 

5. Don't buy candy!

Avoid trick or treaters altogether. Don't stay home. Go out for dinner, go to a movie. If you just can't give up seeing the young ghouls, goblins and witches, buy stickers or temporary tattoos to hand out. 

6. Keep candy out of sight. 

If you do give in to temptation, know what you're eating. Shape.com has a list of 9 popular halloween treats (in snack size) that are 150 calories. 

Choose wisely!

If you 'fall off the wagon', please don't despair! Tomorrow is another day. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and get back on that darned wagon.  Chances are you didn't do as much damage as you've built it up in your head. Resolve to do better and don't beat yourself up. 

Happy Halloween!!!