OTTAWA — Canada Food Guide quick facts
Health Canada has updated its advice for Canadians to help them eat better and develop healthier food habits.
What’s new:
– Recommends eating plenty of veggies and fruits, whole grains and protein foods
– Promotes choosing proteins that come from plants more often
– Says water should be your drink of choice
– Provides tips on what to avoid or limit: processed, prepared foods, added sodium and sugar
– Emphasizes reading food labels and being aware of marketing influence
What’s out:
– No more food groups or portion sizes
– Dairy no longer its own category; healthy dairy options now included with proteins and unsweetened drinks
– Daily intake of oils and fats no longer promoted and saturated fats discouraged
– No more promotion of juice or sweetened milk
New healthy eating lifestyle tips include:
– Cook more often rather than buying meals
– Be mindful of eating habits
– Take time to eat rather than eating while working or doing other things
– Involve others in planning and preparing meals
– Food traditions can be part of healthy eating; share them across generations and cultures
– Eat with other people
The Canadian Press
