Just when you are hitting your post summer health stride, here it comes, the holiday kickoff that starts with Halloween. For all you Kit Kat loving people out there, this holiday often starts the downward spiral away from your healthy habits. Don't let it all go. Get organized, plan ahead, and follow these simple tricks to get your Halloween and holidays off on the right foot.
1. Don't Sabotage
Buy only candy you don't like. If you love Snickers, why tempt yourself with a whole bowl? TIP: Get the candy out of your house the day after Halloween. Let your kids pick some favorites and send the rest to the office, or, better yet, send it to our troops overseas via
Operation Gratitude
2. Don't Rush
The store will not run out of candy, so no need to rush out two weeks ahead of time and have that sweet temptation in your pantry. Buy your treats only a day or two ahead of time.
3. Do plan ahead
Give your family a healthy dinner that includes a healthy protein and a carbohydrate. This will keep your blood sugar stable and you will be less likely to munch those M&M's. Check out
The Mission Of Nutrition for a fabulous pumpkin chili recipe that will do the trick.
4.Do make it about the night
Keep Halloween focused on a fun night out with friends and neighbors. Kids really just like to get something when they knock at the door. Here are some healthier treat ideas to hand out to the ghost and goblins:
Mini raisins
Pretzels
Chex mix bags
Glow necklaces
Sticker, tattoos or theme erasers
If you have to go the candy route, peppermint patties and chocolate covered raisins are a better choice.
Think of Halloween as training for the big holiday race to come. Sugary, fattening treats may taste good for a moment, but looking fabulous in that little black dress at the company holiday party next month is so much more satisfying.
Staying Healthy 
