Ideas for a healthy Christmas don’t just involve cutting back on high cholesterol foods and rich Christmas puddings, there’s no reason why your gift giving this year cannot include healthy presents for all. Of course most of us do not have the time to have a theme to our gift giving or the enthusiasm to brainstorm on a healthy item for each person on the list. Here are my suggestions:

1. Mould spray, dust mite spray: You have to be careful who you give these gifts to as you don’t want to offend friends and family, but either or both of these 32-ounce bottles would be welcome in most Bermuda homes. Particularly helpful for allergy and asthma sufferers the dust mite spray actually neutralises the allergen particles created by dust mites, pets, mould and mildew. Spray on bedding, carpet, clothing, furniture mattresses and any upholstery. A great idea for cab drivers aiming to keep their working environment in pristine condition. Mould spray $22, dust mite spray $40 at the Allergy Clinic.

2. Allergy control pillow covers: Even those who do not suffer from allergies are likely to notice the difference and breathe easier at night with these zip-on washable pillow covers. The covers are made from a fabric that acts as a barrier to allergens like dust mites that can irritate the skin and sinuses. This is a perfect present for asthma sufferers. Priced from $18-$29 per cover from the Allergy Clinic.

3. Blood sugar testing kit or strips: Many diabetics already own a blood sugar testing kit but the testing strips used with the devices are disposable. Those on a tight budget like many of the elderly are bound to be more appreciative of a box or boxes of testing strips over another bottle of perfume. Available at TB Cancer & Health a box of strips for the Accu check brand is $30. The complete Accu check kit with hand-held blood testing machine and strips is $102. The smaller Free Style Flash is on sale — $55 for the starter kit. Most drug stores also carry these products.

4.>Gel insoles: Everyone appreciates the added comfort of gel insoles or heel guards in their shoes. More than the comfort, the health benefit of this product minimising pressure and tension in the back, is why it makes this list of recommendations. There is an array of brands to choose from at most drug stores.

At Hamilton Pharmacy Dr. Scholl’s massaging gel heels are $8.89. Quality Choice Tribalance insoles are $8.95. It features support for the heel, ball and arch of the foot.

5. Yoga classes: Even the elderly and those with serious health concerns are likely to benefit from a yoga session. The Integral Yoga Centre offers special classes for those with back problems, pregnant women and those who need special one on one attention. Special gift certificates are available for: 1.5 hour Thai Yoga Massage $75; Strong Abs Strong Bones Yoga six classes $54; Beginners 1 and 2 and Pre-Natal six-week course classes $120; Integral Yoga six 90-minute classes $85; six 50-minute classes $54. Call 295-7525 or email integralyoga[AT]logic.bm

6B>Toothbrushes: <$>Dentists recommend you change your toothbrush every three months. Many of us don’t. And how often do you change the head on your battery-operated brushes? Perhaps not enough. As with the mildew and dust mite sprays you have to be careful not to offend friends and family when you give them a new toothbrush or replacement heads. No apologies should be necessary if you make it a stocking stuffer. I’d also include a bottle of Plax mouthwash, as it is the only one on the local market that contains fluoride which helps strengthen teeth.

7. A cours<$>Treat someone to a special course or lecture on a subject that interests them — perhaps a jewellery making class in the Community Education selections, or Japanese with Bermuda International Languages & Arts Institute, or an overseas seminar. Learning about a topic that interests you is always nutrition for the mind and promotes a sense of well being. Visit www.omega.org for good overseas selections.

8. Eye drops: This is a practical stocking stuffer and so handy to have in the car or at work. Contact lens users will always appreciate a bottle of their favourite cleaning solution.

Duster: <$>There are cleaning cloths and dusters constructed of fibres which collect dust instead of spreading it around. This is particularly useful for asthma and allergy sufferers. Available at The Allergy Clinic for $3.