How You Can Have a Healthier Halloween Season
By Brandi Goodman
Halloween isn't just a one time thing anymore for many people. Lots of fall events, parties, and celebrations take place throughout the fall season, even after the night is over. Events take place well into November for some locations. Whether it's Halloween night or other times of trick-or-treating or celebrating the spooky holiday, there are plenty of ways to make sure it's a healthier time.
Eat Before Heading Out
You may find an event offering food. Most of the time, there will be cheap options that can feed a lot of people. These options won't normally be healthy ones. Hot dogs, donuts, chips, and juice are common choices. You may also be tempted to eat lots of candy and treats that are available. Eat before heading out so you can be sure to get a nutritious meal. It will also prevent you from overeating junk when you're gone.
Walk Everywhere
If you're taking your kids trick-or-treating, be sure to leave the car at home or at least park it once you arrive at your destination. Walk a block or two at least before making your way back and driving to the next section of town. Walking everywhere will ensure you get plenty of exercise for the night. This will help to make up for some of the calories you may have eaten along the way when you reach for a piece of candy.
Serve Healthy Snacks and Drinks
Perhaps your house is the party place for Halloween or fall in general. Be sure to serve healthy snacks and drinks to your guests to cut back on the sugar and calories they'll be consuming this time of year. There are plenty of healthy options that are still tasty. Serve an infused water, for example, rather than punch. A pitcher of water with orange slices and blackberries looks the part for the season.
Give Non-Edible Items
Candy and food items aren't the only things you can pass out to trick-or-treaters. Give non-edible items instead to reduce the amount of junk kids get. Halloween-themed pencils, glow sticks, bouncy balls, mini coloring pages, spider rings, stickers, and temporary tattoos are all great options.
Halloween celebrations can be healthier if you try. You don't have to gorge yourself on candy or eat all the offerings available. Create a healthier Halloween for yourself, your kids, and those around you by making some simple changes.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Decatur, Ga.