Last Updated on November 13, 2023 by Cathy
Halloween is a season filled with tricks, treats, and the thrill of the unknown. Halloween’s roots go back to different cultures and traditions. Its origins trace back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter.
During Samhain, they believed the dead would cross over to the living. To ward off evil spirits people lit bonfires and wore costumes.
Today, Halloween is a fun holiday celebrated in different forms around the world. It’s a day for costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky fun. All while keeping its rich history and culture intact.
As a kid, I always had fun on Halloween night. My friends and I would bundle up and then put on our costumes, running door to door. I still remember the thrill of gathering candy in our pillowcases.
It was exciting as we trick-or-treated hoping for chocolate candy bars. – It was a time when the world was full of magic, and every treat felt like a treasure. Afterward, my brother and I would compare our haul and then swap candy for our favorites. Those moments of innocent joy will be in my heart forever.
Even as a young adult, Halloween was a time to dress up and go to parties. These parties included treats and alcohol. I will always treasure those memories but I don’t miss the unhealthy treats or the alcohol.
Tips to Navigate the Festivities
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
When you’re trying to eat a clean and healthy diet Halloween can be challenging. While the candy aisles are tempting, choose nutrient-rich, naturally sweet treats. To see a full list of foods to avoid read Foods To Avoid To Recover Faster From MS.
Fruit, nuts, or homemade energy balls can satisfy your sweet tooth. Remember, when it comes to managing multiple sclerosis (MS), your health comes first.
Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be hard especially when you follow these tips:
- Balance Rest and Fun. Halloween can be exhausting, take breaks and rest.
- Focus on the Fun. Halloween is about fun and celebration. Concentrate on the positive aspects and cherish the moments spent with loved ones.
- Get Creative with Costumes. Think about your multiple sclerosis (MS) when selecting a costume. Comfort and practicality are essential. Consider a creative costume that allows you to move easily and comfortably. If you have bladder issues make sure you can get out of your costume quickly.
- Hydration is Key. Stay hydrated with spooky-themed beverages like herbal teas or flavor water such as lemon water. Drinking enough water is vital for your health.
- Incorporate Stress Management. Halloween festivities can be fun, but they can also cause stress. Include relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to manage stress levels.
- Mindful Treat-or-Treating. If you have children or plan to take part, consider shorter routes or a slower pace. Remember to listen to your body.
- Passing Out Candy. If you buy store-bought candy to pass out to the little ghosts and goblins, buy candy you don’t like. For example, if you don’t like peanut butter then buy candy that has peanut butter in it.
- Safety First. Wear a visible wristband or badge during Halloween events. Especially if you’re participating in crowded gatherings.
- Spooky-Themed Healthy Recipes. Create fun and nutritious Halloween-themed dishes. Carve out bell peppers to make jack-o’-lantern stuffed peppers or whip up a pumpkin soup. These can be both festive and healthy.
- Plan a Low-Key Gathering. If you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, make it a low-key affair. Create a cozy atmosphere, play soothing music, and have fun with friends and family. Avoid stress and overexertion.
3 Halloween Recipes
Image by Freepik
Creating delicious and healthy Halloween treats from clean, whole foods is not only possible but also incredibly satisfying. By using the natural sweetness of fruits, like dates or berries, and adding nutrient-rich nuts and seeds, you can create delicious snacks.
Think of almond butter-filled Medjool dates decorated with spooky faces or spider legs using baby carrots or slender celery sticks. Use fruit, nuts, or Supernatural Rainbow Baking Chips to make spooky eyes. With some creativity you can turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary delights, proving that Halloween can be both delectable and healthy. It’s a chance to indulge without the guilt.
1. Apple Pie Slices
Image by KamranAydinov on Freepik
Create a simple and delicious apple-cinnamon treat. Thinly slice apples and sauté them in a frying pan with a touch of coconut oil and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon. As the apples become tender and fragrant, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness. Serve these warm for a comforting and seasonal treat.
2. Spooky Seasoned Cauliflower Popcorn
Image by KamranAydinov on Freepik
You should avoid traditional popcorn made from corn kernels since corn is mostly a GMO. Creating a grain-free alternative with cauliflower can be challenging but it is doable. For a Halloween-themed flavor, you can create “Spooky Seasoned Cauliflower Popcorn.” Use seasonings that summon up the holiday spirit. Like traditional popcorn, you can season it to your liking. Enjoy it as a healthy and crunchy snack.
Here’s a spooky seasoning blend:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, adjust for spiciness (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. Enjoy your Halloween-themed cauliflower popcorn!
3. Nut and Seed Crispy Treats
Image by Freepik
Here’s a recipe for “rice” crispy treats without using the traditional cereal. You can get a similar texture and flavor by using nuts and seeds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed raw nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds)
- 1/2 cup raw honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup nut butter (e.g., almond butter, cashew butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- Coconut oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts and seeds.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the honey or maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the honey-nut butter mixture over the nuts and seeds in the bowl.
- Gently fold and mix the ingredients until the nuts and seeds are thoroughly coated.
- Grease a square or rectangular baking dish with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.
- Let it cool and set for about an hour or until it’s firm.
- Once set, cut the mixture into squares or bars.
These nut and seed crispy treats are a nice mixture of sweetness and crunchy. You can also customize them by adding dried fruit, or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
Savoring Spooktacular Sweets
Having a healthy Halloween can be enjoyable. Instead of sugary treats swap them out for nutritious alternatives. Make smart choices and always choose dairy and gluten-free. Create new traditions with homemade treats. Instead of focusing on food, focus on family and friends.
It is possible to enjoy Halloween while eating healthy.
The Ultimate Guide to Surviving & Thriving with MS
Unlock the power of a healthy lifestyle with this exclusive ebook! Discover practical strategies and expert advice on managing MS naturally through nutritious eating and mindful living. This comprehensive guide is packed with wellness tips, and lifestyle recommendations tailored specifically for you. Take control of your health and embark on a transformative journey toward a balanced and vibrant life. Get your hands on this invaluable resource and start thriving today!
Want to remember this health tip? Pin it to your Pinterest board!
Image by Freepik
