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Health is the best wealth

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." There's more truth to this saying than we once thought.

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." There's more truth to this saying than we once thought.

What you eat and drink and what you don't eat and drink can make a difference to your health.

Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can help improve health and reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.

Keep a healthy weight

Obesity is at an all-time high and the epidemic might be getting worse. Overweight people have a greater risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and strokes.

Eat better, get regular exercise and see your doctor to make sure you are on the right track to staying healthy.

Be active

For adults, 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day is recommended. Find fun ways to stay in shape and feel good, such as dancing, gardening, swimming, walking or jogging.

Be smoke-free

Health concerns associated with smoking include cancer, lung disease, early menopause, infertility, and pregnancy complications.

Smoking triples the risk of death from heart disease among middle-aged people.

Get check-ups

Based on age, health history, lifestyle and other issues, you and your doctor can determine how often you need to be examined and screened for diseases and conditions.

If problems are found early chances for treatment and cure are better.

Manage stress

Balancing obligations to family and employer can be challenging. Protect your mental and physical health by engaging in activities that help you manage stress at work and at home.

Know yourself and your risks

Your parents help determine who you are. Being healthy means doing some homework, knowing yourself and knowing what's best for you.

Be good to yourself

Health is not just the absence of disease, it's a lifestyle. Whether it's getting enough sleep, relaxing or enjoying a hobby, take time to be good to yourself. - CBC

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