So it’s finally October huh?

Sure seems like fall is here with all the leaves changing colors, sun going down earlier, and of course everyone’s favorite, frosty mornings.

But as you head into the new season, there will be a few sneaky obstacles waiting around the corner to offer to you a bunch of goodies that can put a HAAYYUUUGGEEE dent into your weight loss and fitness plan.

Below are the top 11 fattening fall foods. But don’t worry I’ll provide you with some great tips to help you survive the fall without jeopardizing your health efforts.

Lets begin.

 

1. Burgers and Hot Dogs

Sometimes it’s nice to get a good fire started to warm up the body. And with that fire comes burgers and hot dogs! If you find yourself in this situation make sure you’re prepared with either veggie burgers/dogs and choose whole wheat or flat bread to accompany the meat.

 

2. Game Day Buffet Foods

Beer. Pizza. Wings. Nachos. This can be a disaster if your not careful. Sometimes you can get caught up with the football game that you don’t realize how much crap your stuffing into your mouth. It’s okay to have a little, but make sure you have other options like popcorn, thin crust pizza with veggies, and carbonated water so you don’t destroy your body all in one day.

 

3. Oktoberfest Cuisine

What makes up the Oktoberfest Cuisine? Umm…hmm… beer….and…sausages.

Not the best combination but if you are heading down to have a good time, limit your alcohol intake and stick to a certain number. If you say you’re only going to have two beers, then ONLY have two beers. It takes a great amount of discipline but once you can gain control over your urges you’re results will shoot through the roof.

 

4. Over The Top Creamy Soups/Stews

Oh boy! Nothing feels better than having a creamy soup or stew to warm up your soul on a cold fall day. But as good as it may make you feel, it won’t do your body much good. Those creamy soups/stews are loaded with so much cheese, creams and other hidden calories that will either end up on your thighs or your butt! And the side bread they serve it with doesn’t make it any better as well. Choose clear, broth-based soups with vegetables – it’s a good way to warm your body up and reduce the amount of calories you intake. Win-Win.

 

5. Fall Beverages

If you want to quickly and easily add a few hundred calories into your eating habits then grab a hot chocolate, apple cider, or latte with special spices. If you have one of these drinks a day, I guarantee you’ll gain weight! Here’s a keyword that will help you enjoy a fall beverage once in a while – moderation.

 

6. Candy Caramel Coated Apples

Yep the main ingredient is apple, but after it’s drenched and coated with a couple layers of caramel it ends up being a 500 calorie apple. Don’t worry I’m even shocked as much as you are, the first time I heard that I was like “Holy S#!7 are you kidding me?!

But I can confidently say that it’s no joke. A good way to control this is by getting some apple slices and dipping them into a small container of caramel. You control how much apple you eat and how much caramel you eat. Now that’s taking charge of your health!

 

7. Halloween Bits and Pieces

I still don’t know what I’m going to be for Halloween, any suggestions?! At any rate you need to stay away from those killer kandies. Even though the portions are small, having little nibbles of a few of them here and there will certainly add up. Limit yourself and if you’re giving away treats make sure you don’t go overboard and get too much that your stuck with extra at the end of the night.

 

8. Gooey Side Dishes

With some of the holidays in the fall season rich side dishes are popular additions to a full course meal. I’m talking about mac and cheese, potatoes salad, and all those other comfort foods that tempt you to have seconds. It might be comfort food but the richness and tastiness comes at a cost. Don’t let these foods cause total mayhem in your body. Try to add extra veggies to your plate and lean meats. But if you exercise consistently I don’t see why you can’t have a spoonful of goodness to satisfy the kid in you.

 

9. Veggies Loaded with Fat

Okay, if you’re gonna smother your veggies in gravy or some other creamy heart attack induced sauce please think twice. Eat your veggies and enjoy the natural flavors they have without adding the extra crap.

 

10. Moms “Oh so yummy” Stuffing

There’s so much extra things that make up a traditional stuffing is kinda scary.
Yes I know your mom makes the most amazing stuffing in the WORLD! But with all those high fat ingredients, you’re just asking for trouble. Keep this portion size small, chew your food slowly or create a healthier stuffing option with fruits and veggies.

 

11. Pies

I have to admin I like a nice piece of pie from time to time, and the fall season is notorious for the pumpkin and pecan pies. You may think they’re pretty safe to eat since they have nuts, and are made out of a vegetables, but add the buttery crust, pounds of sugar, and that extra whip cream you throw on top – Healthy just became deadly. Again this goes back to having that discipline, you can certainly have a piece of pie…but keep it small and if you do enjoy whip cream go for a spoonful of the light option.

 

Summary

Hopefully you’ll use this list to help yourself have balanced fall season. Remember, its AOK to eat the things you love and enjoy, just know when to stop and work that self-control. Oh and make sure you stay consistent with your exercises, that’ll help decrease the guilt feeling!