Sunday, July 14, 2013

Easter is right around the corner. Easter candy has been in stores for several weeks, tempting even the most disciplined eater. I am often asked what a parent can do to reduce the sugary and fatty goodies that fill most Easter baskets.

This is a tough question. A fat reducing review can help you construct a clear outline of what you require to focus on to achieve your fat reducing target if you're a rookie; or serve as a reminder for these who are at an advanced or more advance stage of their losing weight plan. Following are seven steps that can serve as methods for your special weight loss plan. The first thing that one must understand is that losing weight and losing fat is not the same thing. Many weight loss programs have tricked people into believing that it is the same, but most diets and weight loss applications only work by causing a person's body to eliminate more muscle flesh and water than actual body fat, more help please visit The Fat Loss Factor. As a nutritionist I value health and try to follow a healthy eating routine daily. But there are times when a little indulgence is ok.

Here are a few suggestions that may help. (Remember to select age-appropriate treats in all cases due to choking hazards in young children. Rules on when the treats can be enjoyed can help reduce the sugar and fat eaten at one time.)

For non-food treats, try the following:

  • Plan a family outing and include tickets to an event. Here in Birmingham try the McWane Science Center, Birmingham Art Museum, Birmingham Zoo, Sloss Furnaces, or Desoto Caverns.
  • Interested in an Easter egg hunt? The Birmingham Mommy lists several to choose from in the area.
  • Pack the traditional basket with small toys or stuffed animals. Coins work well, too.
  • Promote creativity with art and craft items, books, blowing bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and bath accessories.

For food treats, consider these suggestions:

  • Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate. Research has shown that the chemicals in dark chocolate are better for the heart than other varieties. If chocolate eggs or bunnies are too much for your preference, try chocolate-covered versions of pretzels, nuts, or dried fruit.
  • Look for candy with less fat per serving, such as Three Musketeers bars and Peppermint Patties. The mini size is just right for a basket.
  • Remember fruit leather? This can be purchased or made at home. Recipes are numerous, and many fruits can be used.
  • Make your own Rice Krispie treats. For added fun, use cookie cutters to make holiday shapes and then wrap in plastic wrap.
  • Prepare trail mix and put the mix in plastic eggs or decorated Easter bags.
  • Make homemade cookies in Easter shapes. When making cookies at home, one can reduce the sugar by at least a third and still have a tasty product.
  • If one must have Peeps and jelly beans, add just a few. The sugar content is high in these items. Or, substitute dried fruit. Have your kids ever tried dates? These are a yummy fruit that are not only sweet but also add fiber. Pack these in plastic eggs.
  • How about adding a toothbrush and a small tube of toothpaste to encourage good dental habits?

Also, to make the hunt for goodies last longer, wrap and hide the different treats. Then have the kids look for these items and place in an empty basket. The fun lasts longer than when presenting a prepared basket.

Be sure to include fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods at meals throughout the day. If weather permits, engage in some outdoor activity to use up the extra treat calories.

Photo Credit: chainat/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

The articles written by Andrea Wenger, Birmingham Diets Examiner, are for informational purposes only and are not to be used in the place of medical advice. Please contact a licensed physician or other medical professional before changing any health care routine or before starting any diet, fitness, or exercise program. Although every effort has been made to include the most current information, new information is released daily and may cause some recommendations to change.


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