Tips for Staying Healthy on Halloween

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

GoLocalProv Lifestyle Team

It's almost that time of year, time to dress up and head out and collect candy from friends, family and neighbors.

However, if your looking to enjoy Halloween but stay healthy at the same time, GoLocal is here to help you do that.

GoLocal has consulted Stop & Shop nutritionist Julie Hersey,MS,RD, LDN, for tips and recipes that will let you enjoy Halloween while staying healthy at the same time.

Here are Hersey's Tips for Staying Healthy on Halloween:

Eat a nourishing dinner & hydrate before trick-or-treating: A group of hungry, dehydrated, sugar-intoxicated kids can be frightening for any parent! Plan to have a warm and hearty meal, like chili, before heading out. Be sure to take along a reusable water bottle to sip between houses!

Downsize candy collectors: Turn the trick around so your kids think they have more candy simply by downsizing their door-to-door collector. Use pails or yogurt containers instead of pillowcases.

Pass out non-food treats: Kids love non-candy treats like Halloween-themed pencils, pencil toppers, crayons, erasers, scary magnets or stickers, temporary tattoos, bubbles, jump ropes, whistles, fake money, glow-in-the-dark necklaces and bouncy balls that encourage activity.

Go mini or fun size: Smaller-sizes will help stretch calories, servings and dollars. Some good choices that are lower in fat and calories include: York Peppermint Patties, Kit Kat Bars, or even those with peanuts for a protein boost, like PayDay!

Keep candy out of sight: Out of sight, out of mind. If you’re lucky, they may even forget it is there! Teach kids that candy is a treat that can be enjoyed after all other nutrient needs for the day are met.

Choose whole grain-based treats: These include chocolate granola bars, trail mix, popcorn, small boxes of cereal, that are low in sugar but provide fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Find fruit-based treats: Look for treats that have a fruit base and no artificial flavors or colors. Think chocolate-covered raisins, 100% fruit leather, fig cookies, and small boxes of dried fruit are all great choices.

Balance treats with healthy pairings: Break up candy into smaller bites or supplement with a glass of water, low-fat milk, a piece of fruit or cheese.