HSF issues health challenge

March is Nutrition Month and the Heart and Stroke Foundation is challenging Canadians to make healthier food choices.

Make healthy food choices today and it could mean a longer, healthier life for you and your family. Lifestyle changes you make now - including eating well - can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by up to 80 per cent.

Do you want to look and feel your best, andmake health last? You don't need to completely overhaul your diet - in fact, that can be a recipe for failure. Instead, make a few changes to your eating habits and you'll be well on your way. Some of the smaller choices you make throughout the day can make a big difference for your health and reduce your risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

1. Eat breakfast. People who eat breakfast regularly achieve a healthier weight than those who don't.

2. Choose a low-fat whole grain muffin over a pastry or doughnut, with milk instead of cream in your coffee.

3. Smaller, more frequent meals keep your metabolic rate steady and can help you lose weight.

4. Select lean meat such as ham, chicken, turkey and roast beef on whole grain bread at the deli counter.

5. Lower-fat milk or unsweetened 100% fruit juice are a healthier choice over soft drinks, fruit drinks and milkshakes.

6. Select items on a menu that are broiled, barbequed, poached or steamed. Thisusually means the food is cooked with little or no fat.

7. For desert, a frozen yogurt cone can be just as tasty as ice cream, cookies or pie - with a fraction of the calories and fat.

Your body needs the right types of food in the right amounts to give it the energy and strength it needs. Follow the recommendations inCanada's Food Guideto meet your daily requirements for vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.Now's the time to Make Health Last.