With Easter right around the corner, many families are preparing for the holiday by filling cute and colorful baskets with sugary treats for children to enjoy. Though seemingly innocent, the majority of these Easter baskets are full of some not-so-great candy temptations.

So how can we make this candy-filled holiday a healthier one? Below are five ways:

1. Watch what you’re putting in the Easter baskets: Candy isn’t the only thing that can go in an Easter basket; there are many non-candy goodies that kids love including stickers, crayons, markers, books or movie tickets. Thinking beyond just candy will help reduce the temptation of sneaking into your child’s basket for some sweets later on.
2. Aim for quality, not quantity: Instead of buying a large amount of cheap candy, buy a small amount of higher quality candy such as dark chocolate, peanut M&M’s, York Peppermint Patties or organic jelly beans. That way if you decide to indulge in some sweets they will be better quality and you won’t have as much of it. Remember, less is more!
3. Set a limit on sweets: I’m not going to tell you that you need to deprive yourself of all the sweets at Easter, but I am going to recommend setting a limit on how much you consume. Instead of grazing on candy throughout the day, set a limit on the number of pieces you’ll have that day. That way you won’t feel deprived or out of control with your sugar intake. If this is difficult for you, try sharing your goal with someone who will hold you accountable (husband, wife, friend, etc.).
4. Remember it’s not all about candy: Easter is a time to celebrate and be with family and friends; it’s not all about the Easter baskets and goodies. Focus on balanced eating throughout the day with good quality proteins (chicken, fish, turkey, eggs), nutritious carbohydrates (vegetables and fruit) and healthy fats (avocados, nuts, seeds, olives). This will help keep your blood sugars balanced throughout the day so all the Easter candy won’t seem so tempting.
5. Stay active: Being active on Easter is a helpful way to avoid sitting at the table with all the temptations in front of you. Plan an activity for the family such as going on a walk after church or create an egg hunt around the neighborhood to help promote more physical activity throughout the day.

Are you interested in learning more about ways to eat healthier? I’m here to help! Schedule a free 30-minute dietary consult today.

Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy Easter!

Health and Happiness,

Autumn Enloe, MS, RD, LD
Registered Dietitian
Live Your Life^TM
Bringing Physical Therapy & Wellness to You!

Autumn Enloe is a registered and licensed dietitian who holds a Master’s degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences. Autumn has worked with hundreds of clients on areas such as weight management, blood sugar support, gut health, mindful eating, and food sensitivities.  She applies a holistic approach to nutrition and knows that our health is based on much more than just what we eat. Learn more about our dietary services here: http://www.liveyourlifept.com/physical-therapy-wellness-services/dietary-services