Nutrition and Physical Activity

Canada's Food Guide

Canada's Food Guide (external link) offers guidance on healthy eating patterns, including what to eat and how to approach mealtimes:

• Choose more plant-based protein foods such as lentils, beans, tofu, nuts, and seeds.
• Limit highly processed foods, including sugary drinks, fast food, deli meats, and ice cream.
• Include a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole grain pasta in your meals.
• Make water your drink of choice (external link). Carry a reusable water bottle, especially when you’re active or on the go.

The Food Guide also suggests the following:

• Be mindful of your eating habits. Take time to eat and notice when you are hungry and when you are full.
• Cook more often and eat with others when possible (sharing meals helps build healthy relationships and habits)
• Read food labels to make informed choices at the grocery store.
• Be aware of food marketing that can influence your food choices, especially among children and youth.

Explore Canada’s Food Guide for more information on:

• Tips for healthy eating (external link)
• Healthy eating for different ages (external link)
• Recipes (external link)
• Healthy eating resources (external link)

Why physical activity matters

Physical activity plays a critical role in preventing chronic disease and promoting mental and physical health.

Regular physical activity reduces the risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Certain cancers (including colon and rectum)
• Type II diabetes
• Anxiety and depression

What can I do to stay active?

Review these helpful resources:

Learn more about ways to be active in Halton