It's that time of year again......

Subject: Halloween Candy 

Flame on me if you must, but this is MY opinion. Every year at Halloween (Easter, Christmas or other holidays) there are always posts about what candy you ate, how much candy can I have, everything in moderation and the like. You may eat anything you want. For me making this journey a long term success includes not giving in to "celebrating" holidays by eating crap. I have not had a piece of candy in well over 4 years and don't believe that I ever will again. (Never say never, right?)

Any 'treats' that I allow myself now are not food related. For my upcoming 4th surgaversary I treated myself to a pair of Miss Me jeans in a size 25 (translates to 0/1). They did not come easily on my budget at all. Every Friday I put $2.00 in an envelope so that I can treat myself to something special to celebrate the anniversary of the best decision I could have made for myself, along with another year of continuing to make good choices.

I do not feel like I want or need to eat candy in any amount. I have also not had any bounce back weight or regain. This is not just because I don't eat candy, but because I have completely changed the way I look at food.

Martha 

 I agree. Go forward not backward. 

 I agree with you on this.  I was looking at the calories for a MINI snack snickers bar and there are just so many better options for the calories.

I can make a healthy and tasty 'treat' any day i want, I'm working super hard on celebrating life's celebrations without food being the focus.

We don't have Halloween where I live but we do have two Christmases and New Years. I plan on treating myself to some nice new clothes and a manicure. No sweets or alcohol for me.

This is a good example of how each individual creates their own long term success.  I don't think any one particular route is the right one; you have to make the right one for you.

I am different.  Yes, I completely changed my eating and exercise....and I hope the changes are for life (like you, NEVER SAY NEVER!!).  I, however, have anything I want in moderation.  I don't just have a piece of candy because it is a holiday, but if I want some candy I have it.  I go many months with none, and then I may have some each day for a week.  Just depends.  Where I do not waiver is in following the rules.  I get at least 120 grams of protein each day, take all my vits and do not drink with meals (and try to wait an hour after).

For me, being "allowed" to have whatever I want in moderation keeps me on plan 80% of the time.  And, if I overindulge for a few days, I just run more to burn it off.  I've maintained my low weight for 2.5 years now....so far so good.

I am proud that you have found what works for you and have experienced long term success!  You are an inspiration.

Yeah, I'm in the other camp. The one that says if I want it, I eat it (in moderation, of course, and not everyday). That's what works for me. If I view anything "off-limits", it makes me want it more. We all need to find what works for us.

On one side - most normal candies make me sick - RH, SF - with lots of SA - make me sick also. I rather not have any than be sick or gin weight.
But there are other 'goodies' that I 'allow' myself anytime any qty. That is 85% dark real chocolate. Never can eat more than few pieces anyway. Very rich chocolate - really don't need or want too much.

But I also bake 'fake' cakes using stevia and protein powder instead of sugar or flour. Now that is a treat that I can use as a snack every day - Don't need to wait for holidays.