This Halloween, Don't Fight The Candy Monster
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Each of us has to discover how we can best deal with food, including sweets. But the experts say that for most of us the more we fight an urge for sweets, the more we want.
Sweets are not addictive, despite the fact many people feel they have no control over the urge to eat them. Though in extreme situations, food behavior can simulate addictive behavior. Especially if you are constantly telling yourself you can't have any at all.
Forgoing all Halloween candies can be the makings of a candy monster, setting you up for a dieting disaster. But if you figure out your daily calorie requirements and leave room for a 50-100 calorie daily treat this time of the year, it may be better for you than resisting. Resist, and the stronger the candy monster grows.
The best way to get through this Halloween is by leaving the candy bags at the store until it's almost time to treat the spooks and goblins at your front door. The worst temptation is having a bag of candy in a cupboard "for later." Instead, allow yourself a small treat from your office or school Halloween stash, and plan for it in your daily caloric intake.
Slip a little treat into your daily food plan and you won't be setting yourself up for a monster of a binge later because you feel deprived. It's not that I'm giving you a ticket to eat all you want. I'm just suggesting that you discover the best way to keep the candy monster from having its way.
Healthy regards,
Megan Porter, RD
