Tips to maintain healthy weight through Halloween and holidays

For many people, the scariest part of every Halloween is not a visit from ghouls and ghosts, but the chocolaty temptation of crunchy candy bars and sweet treats that surround us in stores, at work - even in our own homes. And sometimes it can be just too hard to resist. In fact, the average American will spend more than $20 on candy treats this Halloween, according to the National Retail Federation's 2010 Halloween Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey.

Halloween is the first in a series of upcoming national holidays celebrating sweet treats. To help people maintain a healthy weight over the fall and winter months, Healthyroads, the wellness subsidiary of health and wellness company American Specialty Health (ASH), offers the following advice:

1. If you can't avoid it, replace it! Try chewing on some sugarless gum instead of chocolate if you have a sweet tooth. Other great healthy Halloween treats include pretzels, low-fat popcorn balls, low-fat fig bars, and sugar-free hot cocoa or hot apple cider. If you MUST have chocolate, opt for dark chocolate, which at least contains healthy antioxidants. Just don't eat too much!
   
2. Don't tempt yourself by keeping candy around the house. If you are expecting costumed kids to come knocking at your door, don't be afraid to hand out candy alternatives, such as glow bracelets, stickers, temporary tattoos, face paints, crayons and markers, or fun silly string. You'll help keep your neighborhood healthier, too!
   
3. Stay full. Eating regular, healthy meals that are high in fiber and protein can help you avoid temptation at parties or events.
   
4. Set limits. If you have to have your candy, limit yourself to just two small treats per day maximum.
   
5. Walk! It's a gorgeous time of the year in most places of the country. Soak up the brisk and beautiful weather while you burn calories and strengthen your legs.
    
6. Snap out of it! When you experience a craving, call a friend or health coach who will reinforce your weight or health goals. Post your long-term weight or diet goals on the refrigerator door, or a photo of something you plan to give yourself as a reward for maintaining a healthy weight. Many employers offer access to a wellness program website you can use to stay positive, strong, and committed to your goals. Talk to your Human Resources department to see if you have this benefit available to you.

Don't get spooked by Halloween health fears this year. Follow these tips, and you won't have to worry about Halloween weight gain haunting your family.

SOURCE American Specialty Health