Trick or Treat

Halloween can be the start of the downfall of our health programs, if we let it.

If you surrendered to the hordes of candy at the stores lately, if you raided your kids trick or treat score, be kind to yourself. Remember, one day or night of sweets doesn't ruin (or run) your life.

It is important to keep in mind that food is more than just nutrition and survival. Food is also emotion. It represents fun times, holidays, celebrations and fond memories. That is one of the reasons it can be a challenge to change our eating habits. We have long celebrated with food.

It is okay to continue to celebrate with food. We just deserve to retrain ourselves so we do it with moderation.

So if you had more treats than you think you should have this Halloween, don't play any tricks on yourself. Be kind to yourself. Eat healthy and get enough rest over the next few days. And forgive your food trespasses--be your own best friend. And finish out the year on a positive, healthy, loving note.