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Life In the Sandwich: It’s A Family Thing

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Join UrbanMoms and some of our other members in the “sandwich generation” as we discuss keeping our hearts healthy in the “Life in the Sandwich” Blog Series. On March 23rd, add a new item to your heart health shopping list and visit your participating Loblaw banner store for a free Healthy Heart Check. It only takes 20 minutes of your time, but you will get a personalized picture of your key heart risk factors. Share your thoughts in the comments below for your chance to win some great prizes and learn some important information about heart health.


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So many of us, mistakenly, assume that heart disease is something that only affects our parents, or even our grandparents. But keeping our hearts healthy is something we need to think about from the moment our babies are born. It’s not an oh-I’ll-worry-about-that-later type of thing; it’s an ongoing process. We need to always be thinking about healthy hearts. Sandy, a longtime UrbanMoms member, tells us how she knows that it’s up to her to instill good, active messages into her children.

My two children arrived at the same time. Yes. Twins. While I was thankful that I was able to have an instant family in one fell swoop, shortly after my girls were born, I was hit with an alarming thought. Those two little tiny babies sitting right beside me all bundled up like burritos? They were MY responsibility. I was no longer just making sure that I was doing the right things, eating the right things, saying the right things. Now I had to make sure that these two little girls were going to do the same.
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From day one, I decided that we were going to be super active and super healthy. I had all these lofty goals! My children would always eat three fresh home-cooked square meals a day! My kids would never ride in a car; we would walk or bike or run everywhere!
But then reality smacked me rightintheface. The girls were colicky. The girls didn’t sleep for the first two years of their lives. The girls were picky eaters. To be honest, I was almost too tired to drive my car, let alone walk or bike or run anywhere. And I felt successful if I could get them to eat anything more than some crackers and a handful of cereal. I began to laugh at the girl with the lofty goals.
And then they got older, and we all started sleeping a little bit more, and we all started feeling a little less tired. I began adding little bits of HEALTHY into our lives. We did pull out the bikes. I did take them to places where they could run around. I did try to get them to try new foods.
And…I started trying to get the kids involved. I felt like if they felt like they were making decisions and taking control, they’d be more interested in physical activity and healthy eating. I started taking them with me to the grocery store. As they would run up and down the aisles (they are being active, right?), I would teach them about healthy CHOICES. We started planning our meals together. Instead of me trying to shove all the green foods down their throats, I would give them choices and let them pick. And then something amazing happened! They started eating green things and orange things! I never thought it would happen.
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My girls are now eight. We are not perfect. In fact, we are a far cry from perfect. We all love to watch TV and have lazy Sunday mornings and eat French fries and cookies. BUT – my kids are active participants in keeping our family healthy. We plan healthy meals together. We talk about making good choices over some not-so-good choices. They eat foods that they know are good for them. They swim once a week and they dance once a week and they take ice-skating lessons. They know about keeping their hearts and bodies healthy.

These are things that they LOVE to do. And I love that they do.
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We all know how important healthy eating and activity are for a healthy heart. That’s why we are so excited! Thanks to our supporters, Becel and Loblaw Companies, we are offering one lucky UrbanMoms member a chance to win $500 worth of groceries! All you have to do is comment on this post. Your comment is your entry to win $500 in President’s Choice® gift cards accepted at any Loblaw banner store and coupons for free Becel pro.activ. Be sure to check out the two upcoming posts in this blog series for two more chances to win! The winner will be chosen randomly by random.org. Good luck!
Canadians can get a free Healthy Heart Check brought to you by Becel and participating Loblaw banner stores* on March 23rd from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., or by appointment.
*Participating stores include Loblaws, Zehrs, Real Canadian Superstore, Your Independent Grocer, Extra Foods, Atlantic Superstore and Dominion in Newfoundland and Labrador only…
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Additional Information:


  • Testing is available nationally at the participating stores: Loblaws, Zehrs, Real Canadian Superstore, Your Independent Grocer, Extra Foods, Atlantic Superstore and Dominion in Newfoundland and Labrador only.
  • At 150 select Loblaw banner stores nationally there will be Registered Dietitians in-store to provide customized heart healthy tips.
  • Visit www.loveyourheart.ca to find a test location near you.
  • Unable to join us on March 23rd? Visit participating pharmacy locations to schedule an appointment.
  • Consider
    bringing along a loved one – your parent, or perhaps an aunt or
    grandparent. It’s a great way to show how much you care.
  • This
    pharmacist-administered assessment involves answering a few simple
    lifestyle and family history questions, and a blood pressure and
    cholesterol test.
  • The
    Healthy Heart Check takes approximately 20 minutes and
    includes: Pharmacist consultation, blood pressure check, cholesterol
    test, and customized printout.
  • More
    than 34,000 Canadians that have been tested through this free service
    since 2009.
  • Unable
    to join us on March 23rd? Visit participating pharmacy
    locations to schedule an appointment.
  • The
    Healthy Heart Check program is brought to you by the Becel Centre and
    Loblaw Companies Limited.
  • Contest
    ends on March 24, 2011.

    Click here for contest Rules and
    Regulations    .

    UrbanMoms.ca members are eligible to win so don’t forget to sign-in.
     Not a member yet?      Click here to join!

Comments

  1. cotec007 says

    I think that is a very innovative approach to health care, making it accessible to many people who might otherwise not take the time to go for a heart checkup.

  2. Nina bergeron says

    great program! gets people to go get check who otherwise might not think about it.

  4. tbumstead says

    As a Cardiac Technologist I know the importance of eating right and getting regular check ups. I have seen first hand the devastation of poor eating, no exercise, and smoking.

  9. nancynyx says

    This post is dedicated to the memory of Elizabeth Taylor who died today from congestive heart failure.
    (What a great programme Becel has.)

  10. edmontonjb says

    Heart health is really getting the attention it deserves lately. I’ve seen tons of promotions and information about it. Good for these companies to get involved!

  12. Janice Cournoyer says

    Great idea!! as a nurse, I know that early intervention and awareness is so important in prevention.

  15. Shan says

    What a fantastic program… thanks for passing the info on. I have shared it with family friends and many of us will be attending the Healthy Heart Check at Loblaws today.

  16. sparky says

    Heart health is so important and heart disease can affect anyone. The first step is taking care of your health.

  18. pleau_864 says

    I am very happy to hear that many people can benefit from this since not everybody as a family doctor. I know several friends that dont have any for themselves and their children. I find it very sad that not all children can have a family doctor like many others do.

  22. SLs Mom says

    Wow, that’s so cool. Having lost a parent through a heart attack and being a candidate for type 2 diabetes, I htink this is very nice to have.

  24. Allan H. says

    My niece just had a heart attack and went through a bypass today. She is only 40 with three kids, two at home. It is never too early to start taking care of your heart.

  27. creton says

    Well,as everyone before me,great idea to have an easy access to a heart check.For a long time,blood pressure has been easily checked in most pharmacies…this is an added bonus.I am often thinking of these young athletes that are,seem,to be in excellent shape yet,sadly,die suddenly from heart related problems.

  30. Megan Stone says

    I shared this article with my family and friends because I was very impressed with the valuable program information about heart health. I feel much more informed after reading it!

  31. Jennifer M. says

    I think that having a heart check at a grocery store is a really great idea!! Sometimes it’s hard to make the tangible connection between our dietary choices and our physical health.

  33. jacmom says

    I will be first in line. As a mother of three, I want to be here to see grandchildren, and great grandchildren, what a gift to them to instill a legacy of health.

  36. citymomtoronto says

    The best way I know to have a healthy heart is to excercise by walking daily, eat lots of fruits and vegetables, try not to live a stressful life and give from the heart.

  38. madelena says

    I just lost a family member to Heart disease. I will be going to Heart check with a heavy but grateful heart.

  39. Stacy Hirano says

    I am going today to book an appointment for my hubby. Every year my husband is told that his cholesterol is on the high side and every year my husband doesn’t get the actual number from his doctor. I want to know how high is high!

  40. simplegearle says

    SO excited to learn of this event, and that there is one available at my local Loblaws — I will definitely be there and look forward to finding out how I’m doing. I agree with hipmom — my kids (now teens) have always been taught about the benefits of making healthy food choices. On our recent trip to Big White, the friends that I was travelling with were amazed when they chose the multigrain bagels at Tim Horton’s when they arrived at the Kelowna airport — what amazed them was that I didn’t tell them what to order, they just did it knowing it would be filling and delicious!

  41. Sandy says

    Thanks so much for posting this!! My father passed away very suddenly of a heart attack, and my mom is diabetic, so this is definately a reality check for my family to be proactive about our health, eat right and stay active. I take this to ‘heart’ (pardon the pun!!) Thanks again!! 🙂

  42. hipmom says

    I also found that children will make healthy choices when given the opportunity. I get so frustrated when I hear Moms say ” my kids won’t eat that!” when the kids haven’t been given the opportunity to even try it! We don’t give kids enough credit. They are smarter than we think!

  43. ksceviour says

    Wow,what an awesome idea! I know many people who do not like going to the doctor,,including me,,so this is an awesome way to get your heart checked and also a great chance at winning free groceries!! Thanks! 🙂

  44. bcgirll says

    It’s a shame that it sometimes takes a heart attack or stroke for a person to finally clue in that they should have been exercising and eating properly all along. Most of us know, with all the public attention on the topic, but some people just don’t seem to have heard the message.

  45. Alina says

    A great idea, which will hopefully make people realize how important it is to take care of your health. Most of us don’t think about heart problems until we’re much older, but we should definitely be more attentive to the problem at any age.

  46. momof2 says

    Great idea from BECEL!We only use Becel at our house and my daughter was 6 before she even knew there were other choices. She went for dinner at her grandparents and asked them to “please pass the Becel“they were pretty surprised that she even knew what it was. She was surprised that wasn`t the kind they used. She told them it was good for their hearts and they should use it too! A marketing genius in the making. Now, of course Grandmas`s house is stocked with Becel!

  48. tennille says

    this program sounds great. We have been trying to bake our own snacks instead of buying cookies etc with so much junk in them. It is fun as well as being healthy.

  49. tannaleigh says

    great idea! My son is a heart transplant recipient! We take heart health seriously in our home!

  50. judygr says

    I absolutely LOVE Becel and have been using it for years! That was a small but very important step in starting to get heart-healthy. Although I am not a big fan of many vegetables, I stock up on the ones I really like and make a point of having them with lunches and afternoon snacks. I have never indulged in sugar snacks and when I bake, I always reduce the amount of sugar called for in a recipe.
    This heart health program is a fabulous idea and a great way to incorporate the whole family in your next grocery trip to get a hands-on experience in making heart smart choices.

  54. drjess says

    Great article on Healthy Heart Check. I hope everyone takes the opportunity to go for a check.

  55. Pamalot says

    I think the best thing I can do is LOVE my HEART but also love all the HEARTS around me by cooking nutritious healthy meals and encouraging the WHOLE family to get out and walk the dog with me.

  59. JJ says

    What an awesome program!! I’ve marked our calendar and passed the info onto family and friends. Thanks Becel!

  60. ek03yr says

    What a great idea! By taking just a short time out of your day, you could receive life saving information!

  62. redleaf55 says

    Thanks. As I am coming to grips with our first child – now at 10 weeks and a couple of days. I realise that I too won’t be perfect but I will try my best! After all, he’s a pretty good reason for doing so.

  63. Miranda says

    A great idea – I’ve been wanting my husband to get his cholesterol checked again and this would be a great opportunity without having to shlep off to the doctor’s office.

  64. ak says

    Promoting personal health is always a positive, especially for those that need a reminder now & then about the importance of going for regular checkups. If you have elderly parents, take this opportunity to invite them to go … heehee they’ll think you’re taking them to the mall 😉 After you’re done, fill up that shopping cart with healthy food from the Canada food guide.

  65. Michy says

    Even though it is not Mother’s Day I am taking my mom to have her Heart Check and telling her it is an early Mother’s Day present to me to make sure she is healthy!

  66. Craftycook says

    it warms my heart to know that becel is offering this heart check. my dad had a heart attack almost 3yrs ago , 2wks after his bday glad he is still alive 🙂

  69. kcrmb says

    What a great program! I am 54 and want to make sure I live as long as my 96 year old mother!

  70. mwatt says

    My intentions are always good to live a healthier life, but it sure can be harder than it sounds. Great ideas and I at least know I’m not alone when sometimes it’s just easier to give in to kids and tiredness once in awhile. I know I just got to keep trying one day at a time to keep everyone active and eating healthy. Some days are just better than others.

  73. abrennan09 says

    That’s a really great thing Becel and Loblaws are doing to promote healthy hearts and healthy living. I will definitely keep that in mind in the future.

  74. lpappas says

    This is definitely a program I’d try out, and I’d tell as many people about it too. Thanks Becel and Loblaws!

  76. lola says

    Developing and maintaining good health habits at a young age produces healthy adults. Eating well and exercising are imperative for good heart health. What a great program this is to inform us all on this very important subject.

  80. halldaviswc says

    This is a fantastic program. I’m definitely going to check into it in my area!

  82. kristine hibbs says

    What a fantastic idea!This is truly a great program.Thanks Becel for caring enough to make a difference where it counts!

  85. sunsation72 says

    With new technology .. and awesome checks like this, our society can really benefit and live longer, healthier lives!

  89. katylava says

    What an exciting giveaway! I know that personally, I think natural food is the healthiest way to go. Even plain old ordinary sugar (be it somewhat refined) is way healthier than artificial sweetner, for example. I don’t count calories or monitor my family’s food, as long as we are eating wholesome and natural foods.

  90. Kirsten says

    Thanks for the reminder to take care of our hearts. When life gets busy it’s easy to fall back on the convenience of processed foods and forget to make exercise a priority!

  91. Talin says

    What a great program! Thanks Becel! A Healthy Heart Check is definitely worth the time.

  92. Shannon says

    Becel is a great addition to any diet. They are constantly promoting heart health. What a great post.

  95. fabia says

    This is great! I’ve marked it on my calendar and will make a point of getting some great tips and information.

  96. Joyce McGregor says

    I for one know how important these checkups are, as I lost my mother to heart disease, so I make sure I look after myself not only for me but my kids and granddaughter

  97. ourweejeannie says

    Another great idea to make Canadians aware of their bodies and health. Using gift cards appeals to everybody so you should be getting lots of hits, that will hopefully benefit everyone!

  98. gjoa21 says

    Thanks for the post. The free Healthy Heart Check is a great idea, and I hope lots of people take advantage of it. I’m a breastfeeding mama and hope to raise a healthy girl who isn’t a picky eater (like I used to be!)

  99. Deborah says

    Hubby has high chosteral and high blood pressure, this would be great for him to start

  100. jen s. says

    I think you are right – it is about presenting choices and allowing the kids to make informed, smart and healthy choices about food and activities. congrats on your success. (and beautiful baby pics!)

  102. bushcampcafe says

    sounds like a great program…i try to do active with my granddaughter as much as i can wether we are riding bikes together or just walking to the park.

  105. Iris says

    We just had a wake up call in our house as a member turned out to have high cholesterol. I thought we were healthy eaters but I am now adding more fiber to our diet and less fat. Good bye butter and hello Becel!

  106. Gloria Mitchell says

    A wonderful program, I hope many of us are smart enough to take advantage of it and be Heart Healthy.

  107. pooaneeor says

    This post is a good reminder for us all. I totally fall into the ‘I’ll worry about it later’ category. For someone who is a salt-a-holic, this isn’t a wise thing.

  113. Rita says

    I had the Becel cholesterol test done at Limeridge Mall in Hamilton and it was well worth it. I’ve been on Lipitor for some time and it was interesting to see how regulated that drug keeps my levels. I’d recommend this quick test to everyone.

  115. Amana says

    This is an amazing program. Kudos to Becel. A lot of people don’t go to the Doctor regularly (It is unbelievable how hard it is to find a Dr. in Ontario). So many people rely on walk-in clinics which have horrendous wait times and the doctors there don’t care enough about patients.
    After hitting 40 and losing a 35 year old sister to breast cancer and a 53 year old friend to to a heart attack, I am really worried about health issues and being around for the long run. My daughter is only 7 and I want to be around to see my grand kids one day.
    I really hope people will take advantage of this. I am definitely planning to go.

  120. margaret44 says

    Becel is awesome! I have high blood pressure for years and I will definitely check this out.
    Thanks!

  123. viv123 says

    Excellent! Excellent! We are all so busy, but this such a good idea, and a convenient location; as everybody has to go get groceries anyways.

  126. spike says

    What a great idea and kudos to Loblaws for making this so accessible! Thank you for bringing this to my attention.

  127. Mar_tie says

    Thank you – this is so very imporatant… My 14 year-old son lost his father to a heart attack last year – he was only 49! Much love to you for making a difference in people’s lives!

  128. Eva Smith says

    Lets encourage all our female friends and loved ones to be there! Heart disease is increasing in females, but we can reverse this!

  131. corkrose says

    So necessary nowadays. People do not realize how important these health programs are.

  132. marci-h says

    I think this is a great idea and a health tool available to everyone.
    Since my Dad had his first heart attack at age 37 and passed away at 52, I have been on a heart health diet all my life and was always very physically active.
    I was also a food Nazi with my two boys and they took naturally to team sports. They are both in their 30’s now and continue their healthy diet and active sports.
    I think access to health programs such as this are excellent!

  134. Lori Latta says

    I have put a lot of effort into making sure our kids eat healthy and are involved in physical activity. As they get older, they go through phases of each… But the real problem right now is me! I was in the habit of doing things with them (riding bikes, going swimming, taking walks — even delivering the newspaper) and now they are too old to want me along. So I stay home and do nothing!

  135. Debi says

    This is the year of taking stock of my heart health. So far, so good. I’m healthy, but with a family history of heart trouble, I know that I have to start taking extra special care of my heart. I have a husband and 3 beautiful children who count on me for that.

  138. Justrose says

    In my immediate family there is no heart disease, but I do feel that it could still happen, take heart health seriously!

  139. jklmclark says

    Heart health has often been a priority for our kids, especially when the oldest had open heart surgery at 5 months. We stress to both kids to have healthy choices and get active. Even when they were just starting to eat we would let them try all kinds of foods so that they learned to enjoy a variety of fruits, vegetables, etc and implement full grain options when we can. Also teach to enjoy all foods in moderation so that when there are cookies, chips etc around not to feel deprived and just have a taste.

  140. Elizabeth Peterson says

    Everyone needs to be heart health aware and to have regular heart healthy check up’s

  142. catamorgan says

    This is a wonderful program. Eating healthy and exercise are easy, often overlooked, ways to promote good health.

  144. sweetheart says

    The Heart Healthy Check program is a really wonderful program that will not only educate people on heart health but save lives as well. I try to eat right by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and cutting down the fat and sugar in my diet and my family’s diet so we can maintain healthy hearts. I also walk for 30 minutes a day or get some other cardiovascular exercise such as aquafitness a few times a week.

  146. momkim says

    amazing idea..(say as i have a 591 ml pepsi beside me)
    I try hard to eat right and feed only good foods to my family. I am guilty of being a pepsi holic though.
    Exercise is so important too. Lucky to live in country so my girls ride alot and 16 yr old loves to take the dog for walks every evening to the bush behind farm and let her play around the creek. Agood 20 minute hike through fields.

  147. janetm says

    I agree it is all about healthy choices. We are trying as a family to get exercise and eat well. It is a life long process and best started when children are young.

  148. WestCoastMom says

    I believe, helping guide kids to make good choices for themselves is the best thing we can do for them. You’d be surprised at the result when they are faced with their own choices.
    My kid rarely eats birthday cake at parties, in her mind it’s not a birthday without a cake but you don’t need to eat it. She would much rather go for the fruits or veggies.
    Now if only I could have the willpower to make the same choice at these parties. Yes, I admit, I am all about the cake. Here’s to hoping it was made with Becel ;op

  149. raynebow says

    Great idea! We give our children and us the parents variety and healthy choices, we don’t always make healthy choices away from home but at least at home I know they/we have that choice. This is a great program!

  151. pamr says

    This is a wonderful idea; heart disease runs in my husband’s family so I would like to start my kids’ healthy habits early

  152. bigj says

    Such a great idea! I have two teens that I hope to pass on healthy heart eating tips to, so keep the suggestions and tips coming!

  154. ampedersen says

    There is enough heart-ache in this world, I am so glad to see a little heart-happy!

  155. Lynn Lilje says

    A great campaign to increase the awareness of heart health – I hope lots of people take advantage of it.

  157. sobedaya says

    We give our hearts to our children and promise to take care of them and protect them, not only do we set a good example for them by showing them how to make the right choices, we also need to make those right choices for ourselves.
    My mom introduced me to Becel, such a simple and easy choice to make!

  158. Kim says

    What a fantastic idea! So many of us don’t take the time to get this done by making an appointment with our doctor. This is quick, convenient and easy. Way to go!

  161. jmanning70 says

    Great information. Adding Becel to our diets is an easy way to increase our heart health.

  162. Hope Ryckman says

    I decided finally this year to lose that excess weight and get healthy! I now walk/run on my treadmill one mile daily and also do some cardio boxing, toning, and tai chi exercises. I have lost weight and many inches..especially around my waistline where I know that is the danger zone for women for heart disease, diabetes and breast cancer! I am enthused, empowered, feeling strong and energetic and will continue the above regime to get to where I am feeling my best!

  165. FitzL says

    A good partnership between a food giant and heart health. Thank you Loblaw for promoting healthy eating and heart health.

  166. MPReed says

    I’ll be going for a heart check and I’ll take my mom too. Our family’s biggest concern is heart health. Thank you.

  167. LaurenF says

    What a great opportunity! It feels like a good idea with spring coming too, I know I’m not at my healthiest in the winter so it will be good to get a heart check.

  168. freddybob says

    I think this is wonderful that Loblaws is having a heart health check day this is a great opportunity for people to learn about their heart health.

  169. akskathy says

    Thanks for the links and info! We love Becel in our house and it is good to know we can have a little indulgence without hurting our heart!

  173. Kelly Douglas says

    Very good idea. I discovered that I had a heart murmur at the age of 50. Even though I have a family doctor (the same one for almost 30 years), he never caught it. It was discovered during a sleep disorder test. So, any convenient and simple tests are going to help.

  174. Momonthego says

    The Healthy Heart Check is great! We have athletes in our household and Love Becel on our sandwiches and subs!

  175. AgnesM says

    The Healthy Heart Check is a wonderful idea.
    Congratulations! You are certainly doing your part in keeping your girls happy, eating healthy and active!

  177. Jack Davis says

    Walk, walk, walk anywhere that you can that’s not too far.
    Walking is exercise that costs you nothing but your time!
    Walking is healthy for your body, helps lose weight,
    and is definitely heart-healthy!

  178. Skwd says

    Heart disease is not only common it’s also avoidable. Taking good care of your health is something every parent should do. I want to be around for a very long time and get to see my girls grow up, get married and have kids of their own.

  179. spamgirl says

    Great idea – I hope many actually use this service!
    As to heart healthy, I believe exercise is even more important than what you eat – get active!

  180. jcm says

    I’m at the age (42) that my metabolism has SLOWED down immensely! Weight loss & diet isn’t as easy as it once was, neither is the energy level!
    My heart health is a concern, and so is the heart health of my entire family. We are so fortunate today to be so much better informed than our parents were. We have the knowledge (at least access to it), and the ability to change our lives for the better!
    Knowing what to buy at the grocery store is sometimes challenging, especially when a small budget is involved! It can be done … you just need to train yourself. That is what I’m in the process of doing right now.

  181. Sctich says

    Great article! I will pass along this onformation to all my family and friends to take advantage of!

  185. LG says

    I echo this comment from babylove818:
    “Your heart is not only the symbol of love it is the source of life. Eat well.”
    But I might add “have a few mini chocolate bars each day as well. :0)

  187. Cindy Procter says

    At 45 I am always being special careful with my health so any free way to have part of my body checked I will forsure go to our local store if it is available,,Thanks

  188. lilynat says

    Great idea. My family is pretty healthy, but there is room for improvement, and this is a reminder.

  189. dplavins says

    I’ve always had the lofty goal of being healthy battling with the harsh reality of being a busy working single mum to 3 kids. But recently diagnosed with very high blood pressure (3 meds!) has made me realize that getting in shape “someday” has to be getting in shape TODAY. I’m not going to go crazy with an unrealistic plan that I’ll drop as soon as it gets tough, but I’m adding some pushups, crunches etc, along with some walking and eating better. The biggest thing is now at the dinner table we talk about the importance of staying healthy. We always talked about making healthy choices but its easier to get my kids to buy into it when they can see it directly affecting my health

  191. Michelle says

    Its hard to know when we may get affected. It is much better to maintain a healthy diet and ensure regular check ups and exercise and hope for the best.

  193. Penelope says

    This program could save many lives. I’m looking forward to participating in it and I’ll tell my family and friends about it.

  196. Deb says

    I know how important heart health is, as both my parents died from heart related diseases. I eat healthy and exercise but I have high cholesterol because of my family history. Anything that can make you aware of your heart health is a wonderful idea as most people go through their lives not really thinking about their heart and what kind of shape it is in.
    We all need to realize that your heart controls your body and if it is not in tiptop shape it can affect everything, so I think that anything that promotes heart health is a great idea and should be available for everyone who wants to take part.

  197. spdls0215 says

    This is great! Thanks for this great information. It would benefit all of us. It’s best to really take care of ourselves, to be a better MOM 🙂

  198. leeannb says

    We sign our kids up for activities to help them keep active, but we also try to make sure they have time for free play, running around outside, at the park, and we have a weekly family swim night.
    Now, I just need to get myself more active too!

  201. Laurie W. says

    It is very hard to ensure that kids eat healthy when both parents are working. The best I can do is make sure that our supper is nutritious.

  202. Anu says

    I put my kids in physical activities after school and on the weekends and we try our best to eat healthy as well.

  204. nib says

    There is less information out there than we think on heart health. Thanks for bringing more awareness to this important issue.

  205. Redlizzy1 says

    Anything that helps promote healthy hearts has to be good. Especially increasing awareness in women who tend to ignore signs of trouble. We are normally the caregivers, but we need to learn to take care of ourselves first. Great idea, love it.

  206. Kristy.V says

    Great new program….I loved the article; I am a bit of a exercise and health nut but I do realize that not everyday with our children is going to be perfect nutrition wise.

  207. roywein says

    All we can do, as parents, is instill knowledge, guidance, and a filter they can apply when they’re out of our influence. Plus, be good role models our selves (within reason….)

  209. scoobyshelly says

    This is a great program! Yay for Loblaws! Makes it so easy for busy moms to be able to go get groceries and also get a healthy heart check at the same time!

  210. Kathleen says

    Wow.. this is incredible! I think everyone should have a heart healthy test… it is very important to our heath and well being!
    Thank you for providing this opportunity.

  211. judcon says

    I too tried to raise my children sugar free and living in a remote area it worked quite well for the first couple of years. We raised our own food and walked everywhere. Once school started it was a different story, but they still make healthy choices usually and tend to eat anything now!

  212. emh says

    Its great to see everyone getting on board. Every little bit of information helps. It’s time to get back to the basics. Our heart will thank us.
    Here are some interesting facts:
    It is estimated that as many as 10 million Canadian adults have a cholesterol level higher than the recommended target.*
    *Healthy cholesterol levels are dependent upon your risk of developing heart disease or stroke. Your doctor will take into account factors that increase your risk of heart disease and stroke such as your age, sex, blood pressure, and whether you have diabetes or smoke. The higher your risk, the lower your target levels should be. Your doctor will determine the target level that is right for you.
    Diet
    Canadians of all ages get more than one-fifth of their calories from “other foods,” which are food and beverages that are not part of the Four Food groups.
    Snacks, that is, food and drink consumed between meals, accounted for more calories than breakfast, and about the same number of calories as lunch.
    Food consumption among adults is linked to their household income, but not so much among children. 26
    Fat
    More than one-quarter of Canadians ages 31 to 50 get more than 35% of their total calories from fat, the threshold beyond which health risks increase.26
    Milk and alternatives
    More than one-third of children ages 4 to 9 do not have the recommended two servings of milk products a day. By age 30, more than two-thirds of Canadians do not attain the recommended minimums. 26, 27
    Vegetables and fruit
    Seven out of 10 children ages 4 to 8, and half of adults, do not eat the recommended daily minimum of five servings of vegetables and fruit.26
    56.2% of Canadians (age 12+) consume fewer than five servings of vegetables and fruit per day.2
    Sodium
    Most Canadians consume far more sodium than is necessary. Results from the Canadian Community Health Survey – Nutrition indicate that among people aged 19 to 70 years of age, over 85% of men and 60% of women had sodium intakes exceeding the recommended upper limit.27

  214. freeshopper says

    It’s a great idea to try to be heart healthy by exercising and eating right and show your kids how to do it now so that they will not have as many problems when they are older.

  215. touellette says

    This is a great program. My family….well part of it..has a family doctor, but honestly she is more wing nut than doctor….very scary. I teach my boys about eating healthy and exercising myself and try to lead by example. It’s hard when one parent strives to be healthy and lead by example while the other parent does not. I can only hope my boys will follow me.

  216. nsmomma says

    What a great idea!I know I’ve had a scare with my health …..heart. Thank-you for the wonderful Drs and Medicine .I’m back to normal!Being a young mom of 4, I need to take care of my heart for myself and my children.
    I will be attending the Clinic here in NS!

  217. pat says

    such a program is well worth the time for all to do, thanks
    patiofurniture1f at hotmail.com

  220. Sandra Schultz says

    Being a little bit healthy more and more is a great and realistic way of making sure your whole family is better off. Kudos for telling the realistic way of keeping healthy.

  222. Lynn says

    Our family makes a conscious effort the eat healthy and stay active! We make is a family affair!

  223. tooliecat says

    a healthy heart is SO important – what a great program. on another note the “baby A & baby B” sleepers are adorable

  224. happygardener says

    I have been really aware of my heart health and have started the steps to prevent heart troubles!

  226. batye123 says

    really great idea
    heart health is important
    I never had time to look after myself… always running to do things
    Hope to win 🙂

  227. celtdragn says

    This sounds like a great program! And especially with so many out there with no doctors alot of these things get overlooked!! Way to go Becel and Loblaws!!

  232. ivycottage says

    This is a great program. As I grow older I’m more and more concerned about my heart health and I also want to make sure my kids make healthy choices now so they don’t have to sufer in later years.

  238. stacey dempsey says

    what a great idea, and you can get blood pressure and cholestorol checked , awesome, i have a superstore just down the road , i will definatley participate

  240. bcgirll says

    The nearest (and only reachable) location at the Superstore is about an hour’s drive for me…..more or less depending on the traffic….but I’ll attempt to get there if I can combine it with some other errands in the general area. Thanks, Becel & Loblaws!

  241. Bee L says

    Healthy heart is so important, thanks for the head’s up! I’ll try to make it, and bring the family too!

  242. Kiki says

    I really like how accessible the tests are, but more importantly, I think the most definitive element to this is the time and questions asked by the pharmacists. It’s one thing to use the prevalent (and often inaccurate) blood pressure machines in the drug stores, but combining the tests with a phamacist consultarion is what makes this program more effective.

  243. KittyPride says

    Protect your heart and get your blood pressure checked. It is silent but deadly if you have high blood pressure. I believe in looking after your heart, be proactive, eat right and stay aware. Your good heart health is your best asset!

  246. Jaime says

    This is such an inspiring idea! Heart disease has effected the women on my side of the family so I’ll be making the calls to my family members reminding them to get their cholesterol checked, as will I!

  247. celt says

    Everyone should have a physical each year that includes a blood test so your cholesterol level can be measured. Knowing about a cholesterol problem can get you on medicine to reduce the level and to a change in diet. I have been trying to incorporate some new vegetables that I have never had like kale into my diet. It takes great and has tons of fibre and nutrients.

  248. bluejellybean says

    Thanks for the awareness…I have family members who have passed away due to heart disease including an uncle at a young age.

  249. trustee55 says

    Run, don’t walk, to take part in the healthy heart check program. An ounce or prevention can save you or a family member from debilitation or death.

  250. lisa says

    I think a healthy heart check is a good idea for everyone to do, now, how will I get my husband to come with me so we both do it? Thanks and I will check to see if it is being offered in a store near us.

  254. CC says

    I loved your comments about “lofty” goals. We all have them, but the “heart” of the matter is maintaining our health.

  255. lucky says

    Great program! I have heart disease in my family so I resolve to be more vigilant in keeping my heart healthy!

  257. Cindy Skertchly says

    People think are the big heart attack risks, but women are also a big risk for that. What a great program for free.

  259. lyndam42 says

    Lets hope that everyone(young and old) that walk thru those doors take this great opportunity to be more aware of the importants of a health heart.
    Hopefully these test are extending to other provinces.

  260. Erin Little says

    Fabulous. I love that this program exists and I hope that many take advantage. I know this is national Dietitians week and I send out a big “love you” to all of them, especially my good friend Nancy Guppy.
    I am also a twin mom, and I was a nutrition nazi before they were 2. I’m not kidding. We had the colicky thing going on also, wow, was that hell. They ate very well as breast fed infants and then solid food infants, but somewhere along the line they got all picky. It was weird. I totally kept them from sugar and junk and they loved natural foods, until they got exposed to the other foods. Obviously I couldn’t control everything, and, alas, they now love only macaroni & cheese, grilled cheese (at least it’s on whole wheat bread), broccoli, carrots & peas. Plus all forms of candy, chocolate, sugar and crackers. Sigh.
    We are pretty active though. Skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, canoeing, dancing, puddle jumping,etc.
    I can’t enter this contest but I am fully in support of healthy eating, exercise and heart health!

  262. gibberish says

    Great idea. Making this test more easily accessible means more people will actually be tested & become more aware of the importance of heart health.

  263. slc says

    This is a great opportunity! lots of people don’t have a family doctor or can’t find the time to make an appointment and before they know it too much time has gone by. This way they can take a few minutes at their convenience & stop in.

  264. sherbearw says

    Awesome program. Its really sad how many people do not have family doctors, so this will make it easier for all of us to be tested. Thanks Becel for creating such a wonderful product by the way. I switched to becel a couple of years ago and just love it. I use it just like butter even for baking.

  269. marlibu says

    This is a spectacular programs becuase with our busy lifestyles people don’t have time to make it to the doctor.

  270. Alicat555 says

    Can’t wait to get my check-up! For the past few years, I admit to burying my head in the sand about my heart health. Not this year!

  271. scorpio27 says

    This is a wonderful initiative and I’m glad that it is makes a heart check so convenient. I’m also heartened (no pun intended) about this family’s story. No one’s perfect! You said it! I don’t think we should feel guilty about the occasional cookie or relaxing!

  272. Bonnie says

    My Dad had a valve replaced at 76 and lived till 92. He had high blood pressure since age 40. However, he was always thin. A pigs valve saved his life, yet he always kept kosher.

  273. Bonnie says

    some nuts are good for your heart, try not to eat bars that are dipped in butter.
    Oatmeal is excellent for lowering your cholesterol. Quaker has a new banana nut flavour, it is delicious and satisfies your sweet tooth too. I unfortunately, am a delinquent diabetic. c

  275. patk says

    what a great idea! i’m all for anything that bring awareness to heart health and makes monitoring and/or treatment more accessible for people! yay for heart health!

  276. ConnieD says

    This is awesome! It’s a good opportunity for someone who doesn’t have a family Dr or won’t go to a clinic to at least get a “heart checkup”. This may catch a problem that if not treated could be fatal.

  277. Tracey says

    What a great idea! It’s too bad these kinds of check-ups aren’t available all the time… heart health is SO important!!