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Stopping Fall Allergies Health-conscious people often struggle with giving out candy on Halloween. If you're concerned about the calories and sugar you're loading into your young neighbor's trick-or-treat bag, here are some alternatives that will keep these costumed crusaders happy: • Healthy snacks. Portion-perfect options include cheese and crackers, hot chocolate powder, juice boxes, and packets of trail mix, pretzels, or nuts. • Toys. Don't be afraid to think outside the candy box with small arcade toys or Halloween novelties, such as vampire teeth, temporary tattoos, and stickers. • School supplies. Kids don't want to think about school on All Hallows' Eve, so purchase pencils and erasers that keep with the theme. Try to nd items that light up, have a game included, or add a splash of color to a Halloween candy bag. To learn more about a sugar-free Halloween, visit www.mouthhealthy.org. Fall weather may spell relief from warm- weather allergies, but as the air turns crisp and the leaves fall, new sources of allergens spring up. Removing dust, pollen, and other substances from your home can help keep your family allergy- free, at least while they are indoors. Dust mites are the most common indoor allergy trigger. They thrive in soft surfaces such as carpet, couches, drapes, and bedding. Banish these tricky allergens by vacuuming often and regularly washing bedding. Minimize dust-gathering clutter or collectibles and clean at least weekly with a damp cloth. Keeping your home tidy and moisture-free may help prevent mold and allergen build-up. Choose mild, natural cleansers. Harsh chemicals can also trigger allergic reactions. Using air lters, air puriers, and vacuums with high-eciency particulate air (HEPA) lters can also help reduce allergens in the home. To learn more, visit the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology at www.aaaai.org. Cutting Out Halloween Candy Strategies for Thanksgiving Success Tweaks to holiday traditions and a little planning can help you have a healthy, happy Thanksgiving. If you have diabetes or hope to avoid the discomfort and weight gain associated with holiday overeating, plan ahead: • Bring a traditional side made with no-fat or low-fat dairy or less sugar. • Eat small, balanced meals or snacks at the regular intervals instead of saving all your calories for one large meal. • Limit alcohol to one drink if you are a woman or two drinks if you are a man. • Participate in regular exercise most days to oset extra calories and manage blood sugar levels. • Watch portions closely, taking smaller amounts if you're sampling many dishes. 7 www.sfcare.org