10 Steps to a healthier Halloween

October 30, 11:26 AMSeattle Holistic Health ExaminerGuinevere Amadeo

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 Bags of treasures instead of sweet treats!

Halloween kicks off the string of seasonal holidays where food overindulgence is at an all-time high. Make this Halloween more about the tricks and treasures than the sweet treats, and discuss openly the importance of making healthy food choices.

1. Prepare an extra-nutritious dinner of whole grains, a good protein source and fresh vegetables for you and your family. Fill up on healthy foods before hitting the streets to trick-or-treat, avoiding the urge to consume waaaaaay too much sugar.

2. Pillow cases are for pillows- prepare your kids with smaller treat collectors, then feel okay about them filling it 75% full. Whole Foods has free, recycled brown trick-or-treat bags at their registers.

3. Think outside the raisin box. Instead of candy (or raisins) hand out tricks and toys! Visit Archie McPhee's for stickers, erasers, bubbles, removable tattoos, pencils, bouncy balls or any other small toys you can creatively come up with. This is sure to add some fun to the night without contributing to the $2 billion in candy sales estimated for this Halloween. Eeeek! Now that's scary!

4. Power trick-or-treat. Incorporate a little physical activity to balance out the sugar consumption and tucker out the kiddies in time to hit the hay. Take the long way, take a few laps around the block or race from house to house.

5. Bring a water bottle and drink while you're gallivanting around. This will also curb the appetite for snacking.

6. Let your children choose 5 candies to consume when they get home, then save the rest to disperse as treats for good behavior or dessert.

7. Out of sight, out of mind. Avoid the inevitable begging for the candy by hiding it away in a closet and only bringing it out for treat time.

8. Donate extra candy. Many doctors and dentist offices set up donation centers to turn in excessive candy. Teach children the importance of giving when they have plenty to share.

9. Create an exchange program. 10 pieces of candy for a toy they've been wanting or a fun, recreational outing. Let them use the candy as currency for healthier treats.

10. Skip the candy and trick-or-treating all together. Let your kids dress up and take the to buy a special toy or go to a fun community event.

And above all else, the bonus #11... Set an example for your children, coworkers, family etc. Limit your consumption of sweets and practice your healthy lifestyle habits.

Feel free to leave questions and or comments below...

        Yours in Health,

        Guinevere Amadeo, LMP