10 Fast Facts for a Healthier Lifestyle

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Improve your health and well-being with these 10 quick health tips

Food Allergies

Food allergies are a major back-to-school concern. If your child has food allergies (e.g., peanut butter, milk, eggs), be sure to alert the teacher.

Skip Non-dairy Creamers

Limit non-dairy creamers. Many contain coconut or palm kernel oil (including trans fats), sugar, sodium and corn syrup, and pack 10 calories per teaspoon (5 mL).

Don’t Overdo the Alcohol

To have your wine and drink it too, try alternating a glass of wine with a glass of sparkling water. This will limit your alcohol consumption plus keep you well hydrated.

Go Hard on Cheeses

Hard cheeses contain more calcium, protein and minerals than soft cheeses because they contain less moisture and are more condensed.

Get a Tetanus Shot

Injuries that require a tetanus shot include animal bites, as well as punctures caused by large splinters or nails, or by objects that are rusty or covered in dirt.

Nap Early

Napping can be a healthy habit. However, if you nap, do it before 3 p.m. Napping later in the day can disrupt your sleep.

Skip Carbs, Double Up on Veggies

When dining out, cut the calories of your entrée by replacing potatoes, rice or pasta with a double portion of vegetables.

Check the Date

Check your canned foods for expiry dates. Acidic foods, like canned tomatoes, generally last a year to 18 months, while most canned vegetables and meats last two to five years.

Don’t Mix Booze and Aspirin

Don’t drink alcohol if you’re taking pain relievers like Aspirin or ibuprofen as it can promote stomach bleeding. Combining acetaminophen with alcohol can cause liver damage.

Munch on Magnesium

Eating magnesium-rich foods can significantly lower the risk of stroke. Natural sources include leafy green veggies, beans, tofu, yogurt, seafood and whole grains.