Canada’s most expensive condition

Heart disease, stroke and other circulatory diseases cost acute-care hospitals the most to treat—an average of $11,260 per patient stay—according to a new report from the Canadian Institute of Health Information. That’s a pretty big price tag (per patient!) for what are largely preventable conditions.

While no one plans a hospital visit, we can all do our part to reduce our risk of heart and circulatory problems. Little things, such as a brisk daily walk or savouring a bowl of fibre-rich vegetarian chili, all add up, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. After all, as they point out, heart disease and stroke kills one in three Canadian women, yet only one in eight know that it’s their most serious health concern.

So find out more about how to protect your ticker and the most heart-healthy foods. You can’t go wrong with Tuscan Mixed Bean Soup, for instance.

E-mail us with your favourite heart-smart recipes, too!