What makes Canada healthy?
Updated: Jul. 16, 2019
In honour of Canada Day, we asked Best Health readers what their communities have to offer that helps them stay healthy. Tell us what makes your community healthy in the comments below
Local produce
Many Canadians take advantage of our country’s farmland by including healthy, local food in their diet.
@ChoicesAddUp says via Twitter that Farmers’ markets, and the “fresh, local produce, meats and so many healthy choices from farms nearby,” makes Calgary, Alberta a healthy community.
Check out the Calgary Farmers’ Market – open year round Thursday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Lots of options
Some readers find healthy options right in the city. @nataliedaye says “Local farmers deliver fresh vegetables, fruit and cheese right to our downtown offices!”
The smaller communities within the city of Toronto are also a source of healthy food and fitness ideas.
“Groceries, medical care, schools, parks and entertainment [are] all within walking distance” in Bloor West Village, says @hmcwriter via Twitter. “Walking engages.”
Outdoor activities
Readers across the country declared via Twitter that Canada’s great outdoors was their reason for being a healthy community.
“Love my healthy town!” says @teramc. Kippens, Newfoundland “devoted a huge block of land [for] base/basketball and soccer, a dog park and a community garden!”
In New Westminster, BC “we get out a lot,” says @danigirl333. “That may be biking or just walking around town getting fresh air:)”
@briwifruit says, there are “lots and lots of bike and running trails in Victoria!”
One popular hiking and biking trail residents or visitors to Vancouver Island may want to check out is Galloping Goose Trail. The 60 kilometre-long trail stretches from Victoria to Sooke.
Fresh-picked fruit
Some East Coast readers cited the antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables that grow nearby among their favourite foods.
Halifax’s @aldelory says, “An abundance of fresh Nova Scotia produce, including world-famous blueberries, keeps us healthy.
If you’re also a blueberry fan, check out Nova Scotia’s Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival from August 19 to September 3, 2011.
Group fitness
“Free yoga on Parliament Hill!” says Meg Dalbinator via Facebook.
If you live in or are visiting our country’s capital, Lululemon Athletica offers free yoga sessions on the lawn outside Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings every Wednesday from June 2 through September 29. Or find a free yoga class at a Lululemon store in your community.
Related:
• Canada’s healthiest restaurants
• 8 secrets to shopping at farmers’ markets
• Yoga for beginners
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