Is Dark Chocolate Toxic?
February 22, 2023
By Anna Varriano
Shortly after Valentine’s Day, I saw a segment on the news regarding a Consumer Report (U.S. based) that investigated the dangers of dark chocolate. The results revealed that many brands contain higher-than-safe levels of the heavy metals cadmium and/o …
Continue reading Tip of the MonthPumpkin Power
October 19, 2022
By Anna Varriano
Fall is such an amazing time of year. The colours are gorgeous, the air is crisp, the days can still be warm while the nights are cool and great for sleeping, and there is an abundance of beautiful, fresh, local produce, including one of my very favour …
Continue reading Tip of the MonthWhat Plant-Based ‘Milk’ is Best?
May 6, 2022
By Anna Varriano
The Plant-Based Milk Industry is Growing! In 2020, the retail sales of ‘milk alternative beverages’ were US$336.9 million in Canada and US$2.8 billion in the United States. That’s a lot of glasses of plant-based milk! Agriculture Canada expects t …
Continue reading Tip of the MonthCan Food Affect Your Sleep?
March 30, 2022
By Anna Varriano
I recently read an article entitled “Nutrition and Sleep: The Best and Worst Foods for Quality Rest” (1). The article lists several common nutrition-related Do’s and Don’ts for better sleep including: DO’S Eat a balanced dinner e.g. a combo of healthy …
Continue reading Tip of the MonthSquashing Out Disease
November 17, 2021
By Anna Varriano
When we eat according to Mother Nature’s plan, we get just what we need at the right time of year. For example, in fall, we are blessed with a bountiful variety of winter squashes. While they are harvested in the fall, these gorgeous vegetables keep w …
Continue reading Tip of the Month3 Tips for a Healthy Return to the Classroom or Office
August 19, 2021
By Anna Varriano
It’s hard to believe that September is around the corner … again. This year, we are faced with many unknowns and perhaps a higher level of stress as back-to school, and for many, back-to-the-office is happening in the face of pandemic uncertainties. …
Continue reading Tip of the Month8 Tips for a Healthy and Tasty BBQ Season
June 3, 2021
By Anna Varriano
BBQ season is finally here! One of my favourite summer time activities is to have an entire main course cooking on the grill while I enjoy my backyard…and the dinner guests who are joining me! Before Sparking Up, Read This! Barbecuing foods – meat in …
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