Health Tips for February 13

Health Tip: Pack a Healthier Lunch

Packing a lunch made at home may seem like a good way to save money and calories, but even homemade sandwiches can contribute to a bulging waistline.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to limit calories when making sandwiches:

* Choose low-fat or fat-free lunch meats and cheeses, or stick to lean meats such as chicken or turkey. Try using veggie patties or veggie hot dogs.
* Make a sandwich or a pita stuffed with fresh vegetables, low-fat cheese, and a fat-free condiment such as mustard.
* Try using all-natural or reduced-fat peanut butter.
* Instead of chips, pack carrot sticks, celery or other crunchy veggies to go with your sandwich.
* Use low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise when making chicken or tuna salad sandwiches.

Health Tip: Allergy Shots Aren't for Everyone

Allergy shots help sensitize your body to allergens -- things to which you're allergic.

While the shots are safe and effective for most people, not everyone should have them, the American Academy of Family Physicians warns.

Here's the academy's list of people who probably shouldn't have allergy shots:

* People with severe asthma.
* People who have heart problems.
* People who take a beta blocker for a heart condition.
* Children under age 5.
* Pregnant women.