Learn more about weight loss surgery at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians www.RMAP.com (801) 268-3800
Many of our patients after weight loss surgery tell us that the scariest part of Halloween night isn’t the ghosts and goblins, but the ever-abundant Halloween candy that appears at home and at the office this time of year. Our surgeons and members of the expert team here at Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians (RMAP) share their expert tips to help you avoid the temptation of Halloween goodies, at home and at the office.
- Buy candy you don’t love. It will be easier to resist opening those bags and diving in.
- Out of sight, out of mind. Ask your co-workers to keep their candy jars and bowls inside their desks or stashed in a cabinet in the break room.
- Replace the candy with better choices. Things such as veggies, crackers, cheeses, etc.
- Take a walking break. Getting away from your desk for a breath of fresh air can invigorate you and help you get over those slumps that are often mistaken for hunger.
- Manage your hunger. Planned meals will keep you feeling satisfied and make you less likely to raid the candy bowl.
- Bring your water bottle. Keep your hands and mouth busy by drinking your water.
How Can I Better Prepare for Halloween Night?
Prepare yourself for the onslaught of costumed kids with some alternative “treats” to avoid having to purchase candy. Some ideas for alternative trick-or-treats are:
- Packs of mini play-dough container.
- Miniature bottles of water or all-natural juice boxes. Kids are always thirsty when out and about trick-or-treating.
- Spooky collection of Halloween “frights” like plastic eyeballs, rubbery rats and fake fingers.
- Halloween pencils and mini activity books or pads of paper.
- “Birthday landfill,” a collection of all the little gizmos and gadgets from party favor bags throughout the year.
- Temporary tattoos and/or stickers.
- Small bags of microwavable popcorn.
- Light-up glow sticks, which can usually be found in a pack of 15 at Michael’s or Target for only $1.
What Do I Do with My Child’s Halloween Candy?
Your child’s candy can be the greatest temptation of all. One alternative is to hide it from yourself. Have your ghost or goblin pick out his or her favorite candy and then limit your child to a piece (or so) a day until it’s gone. Throw away the non-favorites. If that option is tempting, then we suggest two methods for getting it out of the house:
“The Barter” – Allow each kid to keep a few pieces and then trade in the rest to you for a quarter (or dime or nickel) each. From there you can go off to the toy store or dollar store to spend the candy money on some toys! (This method can be used all month long or even all year long!)
“Halloween Witch” – Encourage your kids to pick out five pieces of their favorite candy to be enjoyed that night. Leave the bulk of their candy out on the front porch for the mysterious “Halloween Witch” who will miraculously leave a non-candy surprise (like a game or a toy) in its place. Bonus: tell them the “better” the candy the “better” the surprise!
What do you do to prepare for the tricks and treats of Halloween?
Links to similar articles:
Helpful Tips for Healthy Nutrition
www.RMAP.com
Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians
801-268-3800
1160 East 3900 South, Suite 4100
SLC, UT 84124