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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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Two Everyday Habits You Should Cut Back to Keep Blood Pressure in Check

 

New guidance on how to manage high blood pressure recommends eliminating or substantially limiting alcohol.

High blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” affects nearly half of adults worldwide. Left unmanaged, it can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The good news is that small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. According to the latest guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, two of the most important things to reduce are sodium (salt) and alcohol.

1. Sodium (Salt)

  • Why it matters: Excess sodium causes the body to retain water, which increases blood volume and puts extra pressure on blood vessels.
  • How to cut back: Limit processed foods, canned soups, and salty snacks. Opt for fresh ingredients and season meals with herbs, spices, or citrus instead of salt.

2. Alcohol

  • Why it matters: Regular alcohol consumption raises both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over time.
  • How to cut back: If you drink, do so in moderation. Guidelines suggest no more than two drinks per day for men and one for women, though less is always better for heart health.

The Takeaway

By reducing salt and alcohol, you can significantly lower your risk of hypertension and its complications. Pair these changes with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management for the best results.


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