Don't Turn the "Fun-Sized" Into "Full-Sized"

Happy Halloween everyone! Once again, it's that time of year when free candy and chocolates seem to fall into our hands. As I walked home it occurred to me that Halloween is a holiday for all ages. Generally speaking, the majority of trick or treaters is 15 years old and under. As a kid, it is socially acceptable to knock on doors, collect candy and then mindlessly devour the sweet treats. However, the concept of Halloween is different for adults. It is no longer socially acceptable for adults to trick or treat, unless they are accompanying a child. Thus, adults are left with certain responsibilities on Halloween; such as  purchasing candy and distributing it to trick or treaters. Responsibility is required to execute health decisions on Halloween. 

I have identified three degrees of health responsibility.

1. individuals who do not take on health responsibility
2. individuals who take on minimal health responsibility
3. individuals who take on full health responsibility 

How does Halloween affect each of these three groups? It seems inevitable that individuals in category 1 are likely to constantly pick at halloween candies. They may even continue this bad habit well into the rest of the week. Individuals in group 2 may go ahead and eat what they desire but are conscious that there eventually is a limit. Lastly, individuals of group 3 are highly likely to implement action. What type of action would they take? Perhaps, they would only buy one bag of candy to distribute. Most of the candy would go to trick or treaters with minimal leftovers. Therefore, they might assess the leftovers and pick out their favorite candy. Lastly, these individuals will allot a reasonable amount of candy to eat.

Personally, I would consider myself an individual who is fully responsible about my health. I made sure to control my Halloween candy intake. This year, my mom bought the "fun-sized" chocolate bars and candy. Most people know that the "fun-sized" portion is about the size of a thumb. I allowed myself to indulge in one snickers bar, two musketeer bars, one twix bar and one starburst packet. It felt satisfying to have a variety of tastes but in small portions. 

Warning! Don't let the size of the candy fool you! Eating three "fun-sized" bars will add up to one regular size bar. So make sure to stick to the concept of a "fun-sized" candy because it may lead to a calorie packed binge. Also, if you want to limit your candy intake try this: have a designated time for candy. For example, if you want that mini snickers bar, eat it after dinner because you'll already be full. If you eat candy on a full stomach you may be tempted to keep snacking on candy in hopes to feel full. Unfortunately, chocolate and candy do not posses fiber or protein to help you feel full. 

I hope all of you have a healthy and safe Halloween! 

Remember, it's all a matter of personal choice.

Just know that there are healthy habits to enjoy sweet treats.

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