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Canada’s Inflation Climbs to 2.4% as Gas Prices Surge to Record High

  Canada’s inflation rate accelerated to 2.4% in March , up from 1.8% in February, as the Iran war triggered the largest monthly gasoline price increase on record . Statistics Canada reported that gas prices surged 21.2% month‑over‑month , a supply‑shock response to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and broader Middle East instability.  Energy costs were the dominant driver of March inflation, with overall energy prices rising 3.9% year‑over‑year after a sharp decline the month before. Excluding gasoline, inflation would have eased to 2.2% , highlighting how concentrated the price shock was.  Food inflation offered mixed relief: grocery prices rose 4.4% , while fresh vegetables jumped 7.8% due to difficult growing conditions. Restaurant inflation cooled sharply as last year’s tax‑holiday distortions fell out of the annual comparison.  Economists note that while headline inflation spiked, core measures remained relatively tame , giving the Bank of Canada ro...

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How to prevent heart disease and stroke

Heart disease and stroke are two of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. They are both caused by problems with the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the heart and brain. The most common risk factors for heart disease and stroke are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet.

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent heart disease and stroke, or to reduce their impact if they occur. Here are some tips to keep your heart and brain healthy:

1. Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly and follow your doctor's advice on how to control them.

2. Quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

3. Manage your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes or prediabetes.

4. Maintain a healthy weight and avoid abdominal obesity.

5. Exercise regularly for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.

6.  Eat a balanced diet that is low in saturated fat, trans fat, salt, and added sugars, and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, fish, and lean meats.

7. Limit your alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

8. Manage your stress levels and practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.

9. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience any signs or symptoms of heart attack or stroke, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, arm or leg weakness, facial drooping, slurred speech, or sudden severe headache.

By following these steps, you can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke and improve your quality of life. Remember that prevention is better than cure!


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