By Gena Kelly On February 21, the Haldimand Abilities Centre in Hagersville hosted a Heart Health seminar led by Andrea Maxim, naturopathic doctor of Healing Journey Naturopathic Clinic in Caledonia. February is National Heart Awareness month. Dr. Maxim spelled out risk factors associated with heart disease and offered tips to a healthier lifestyle. “Heart disease and stroke are two of the three leading causes of death in Canada,” said Dr. Maxim. “And heart disease is the number one cause of death for women 55 and older.” The Heart and Stroke Foundation lists risk factors, of which they say nine in 10 Canadians have at least one: smoking, alcohol, physical inactivity, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Stress, lack of sleep and poor food choices are factors that can also be managed to improve overall health. “Potatoes and tomatoes top the list of vegetables the average person consumes because we all love french fries and ketchup. But we need 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day with a balance from other food groups,” explained Dr. Maxim. In a slide show, Dr. Maxim pointed out healthy eating and exercise options and explained, “Most chronic diseases can be prevented or improved by avoiding risky behaviours such as smoking, poor nutrition, increasing physical activity and obtaining lifesaving screening services.” Audrey Lawrence of Hagersville and Connie Chesholm of Caledonia attended the presentation.