Fall’s majestic bounty has much more to offer than candy. Halloween is just one highlight of the magical fall season and although candy is a time-honored tradition, indulging in too many sweets can leave both kids and adults with a Halloween hangover that lasts much longer than a jack-o-lantern’s glow.
Apples, pears, and pumpkin make for delightful and nutritious treats. Fall and pumpkin spice are like the dynamic duo of seasonal flavors. It’s a classic combo that’s pleasing to the senses, however options of the edible nature tempt us in the form of lattes, donuts, and fritters. So what if instead of tricking your body with empty calories, you were to treat it to healthier choices?
Hold up. I’m not suggesting you forego Halloween or even seasonal fun. This is about keeping the fun and even keeping your favorite treats while leaving behind the sugar rush/crash cycle that will leave you feeling drained and may keep your kiddos wound up for several days to come!
While doling out the haul of treats your little ghosts and gremlins bring home (or when you feel obligated to eat the leftover candy you bought for the neighborhood so it won’t go to waste), consider this: eating protein and fat with candy is a solution that can prevent unstable blood sugar levels. Have a few slices of deli turkey and almonds before your Starbursts or a couple of pieces of string cheese or low fat Greek yogurt with a Kit Kat bar. Simply choose your favorite candy, pair it with a healthy protein and fat and enjoy. It’s never too early to teach little ones about choosing wisely, while still allowing them to enjoy kid stuff (and we’re never too old to learn). The trick is to make a couple of minor adjustments that will change the way food is metabolized, and still savor your favorite treat!
By making mindful choices, it’s very possible to embrace the fall season, prioritize well-being, and avoid the dreaded Halloween (or anytime) hangover. Then, everyone can enjoy the festivities and still feel refreshed and revitalized the next day—imagine that! These additional tips might be helpful too:
- As the nights grow longer and the air gets cooler, it’s essential to stay active. Fall offers a variety of outdoor activities, like hiking through colorful wooded areas or taking scenic bike rides. Make it a family affair and explore the vibrant foliage together.
- When the temperature drops, we might forget to stay hydrated. Keeping a bottle of water handy is just as crucial in fall as it is in summer. Proper hydration aids digestion, keeps energy levels up, and helps avoid the sluggishness that can accompany a sugar binge.
- Fall’s cozy ambiance is perfect for practicing mindfulness. Take a moment each day to appreciate the beauty of the season. Mindfulness can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Tune into your body’s natural rhythms and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
So will you trick your body or treat it right? These autumnal delights are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them the perfect antidote to sugar-laden sweets. First up is a fun way to get kids to pair a “good for you” treat with their candy. Years ago, a co-worker brought these adorable snacks to our annual “Mingleween” party and I’ve been making them ever since. I added the side of string cheese for nutritional balance. Enjoy it “as is” or as a great solution to balancing a candy snack.
Clementine Pumpkins with a Side of String Cheese.
(Clementines are rich in vitamin C, thiamine & folate, string cheese boasts protein and vitamin B12)
Ingredients
Clementines (peeled)
Celery
String cheese
Cut celery into tiny “stems” and insert into top of peeled clementines. Arrange on a platter. Add some raisin “fingernails” to the string cheese for a spooky treat.
The next recipe is something I whipped up on short notice to share at a family gathering. They said it’s a keeper.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Dip
(Pumpkin is loaded with nutrients including vitamins A, B1, B6, C and fiber, copper, and zinc, the addition of the protein powder and apple slices make it a delicious treat you can feel good about.)
Ingredients
2 scoops vanilla protein powder
½ cup organic pumpkin puree
¾ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
Dash of ginger
Drop of orange extract
Drop of vanilla extract
A sprinkle of coconut sugar
Almond milk (I used unsweetened)
Slowly add almond milk to the protein powder until its a pudding-like consistency
Add spices, coconut sugar and extracts to pumpkin puree, then add the pumpkin mixture to the protein “pudding” stirring until well blended. Add a little more almond milk if needed.
Refrigerate for 1 hour or more.
Serve with sliced apples sprinkled with cinnamon and some walnuts and dark chocolate chips to sprinkle on top.
