The Conversation
Asking someone to ignore chocolate and other candy for the entire month of October is arguably cruel — even if that someone is a grown woman. Take something away from us, and we just want it more. It’s a fact of life! Even those of us who are now allegedly “too old” to take our DIY treat bags out for a spin on Halloween deserve to indulge in the sweets that are so key to this season, right? It would be a shame to throw the health and fitness baby out with the Halloween bathwater, though, so while we totally fight for your right to indulge, we also want to help you do it in a way that’s not going to make you feel like you’ve fallen totally off the wellness wagon come November.
We’ve rounded up Halloween treat recommendations from five nutritionists, because when in doubt, it’s always best to turn to the experts. Keep scrolling for all the delicious details of how these pros treat themselves (responsibly, mostly) for this season. These yummy suggestions are totally worthy of being worked into your October celebrations.
Justin’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
A self-proclaimed “chocolate and peanut butter kind of girl” (aren’t we all, though?), Gellman won’t settle for any old peanut butter cup. If she’s going to spring for a seasonal indulgence, she prefers to “find the best version [of a peanut butter cup] with a short list of organic ingredients — which means dark chocolate — that’s preferably handmade.” The New York-based Gellman — a chef, culinary nutrition expert, recipe developer, and owner of Culinary Nutrition Cuisine — typically turns to local candy shops or a Justin’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup snack pack when she’s craving her fave treat.
More From Healthy Eating
Back in January, we introduced you to a feel-good cause to inspire your New Year's resolution: a walking challenge to help raise funds for the amazing cancer fighters at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I took part in the challenge with the Brit + Co team and ended up walking 105+ miles in January — it was awesome.
This spring, there's a new challenge on the horizon, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Big Climb. The ask: On May 15, 2021, you can step up to take cancer down by committing to climb 1,311 steps, walking 3.2 miles, or doing 440 chair step-ups at home as part of the Big Climb. If you need some motivation to bring movement back into your daily routine — look no further!
As always, it's free to sign up, but climbers are encouraged to set a fundraising goal to help beat cancer. We'll be organizing another Brit + Co team to step up, and I hope you'll join us too! Keep scrolling for a peek at where I'll be completing the challenge in my Los Angeles neighborhood around the hidden Silver Lake Stairs. Happy climbing!
Never underestimate the power of an accountability buddy! I asked my in-laws, my partner, and a few friends to join me so we can keep each other motivated and accountable in completing the challenge — virtual high-fives all around! Also, my dog Fox is a great climber, too.
An aesthetically pleasing backdrop is a huge motivator for me! I'm fortunate to have all sorts of painted steps around my neighborhood to keep the challenge interesting, but you can also keep cool inside with at-home chair step-ups.
Don't forget to share your progress on social — #BigClimb!
Feel free to break the challenge up if you need to by tackling half the distance in the AM and half at sunset. Here's me 1,311 steps later and ready for a break — but, think I earned this one!
More on Brit + Co
17 Size-Inclusive Athleisure Brands To Shop This Spring
The Best At-Home Workouts If You're New To The Whole Moving Thing
5 Foods You Should Never Eat Before A Workout