AG WOMEN'S NETWORK

So, what is public health? After working in public health for over 5 years in various front line positions, and now management, I can truly use the phrase – If I had a dollar, or even a dime, for every time one of my friends or family members asked me “what is public health” I’d be rich! I’ll do my best to answer by asking (and answering) three key questions. 1. Immunizations… Smoking cessation… Prenatal classes… Breastfeeding support… Free dental care… Safe food handling… Se

I started my fitness journey many years ago, when I decided to start jogging. This eventually led me into the weight room, where I have always thoroughly enjoyed working out. Generally speaking, I would work out 5 or so days a week, plus taking my dog for long walks every day – I am an active person, but have always liked to eat a LOT and whatever I want. (Body type – likes working out, but definitely likes eating pizza. I was happy with myself – mentally and physically). The

We see things. Read things. And people tell us things. But when it comes to health and fitness information, how do we tell what’s truth and what’s a myth? In truth, it’s hard to keep up with the endless flow of information that is constantly being shared. Not to mention one day eggs will kills you and cause all kinds of high cholesterol and the next they are the best super food and you should eat them every day. In an effort to help us all, we’ve shared some common health myt

Last fall Dr. Andria Jones-Bitton asked farmers across Canada to participate in the first-ever national mental wellness survey of those who produce our food, and had an overwhelming response! Since speaking with her last fall Dr. Jones- Bitton has had a chance to analyze some of the results and below shares some initial feedback with the Ag Women’s Network. Thank you Dr. Jones- Bitton for shedding light on this subject and helping to educate us all on mental health. Here is t

In 2007 I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I had been feeling sick and looking ‘swollen’ for about a year and I was tired of it. So, I started to be an advocate for my health and pushed for more tests at the doctor. After an uphill battle, my doctor performed a biopsy on me and the results were conclusive. Shocked by the diagnosis, I knew this was now a diet I would have to adhere to for the rest of my life. However in 2007 it was challenging to find Gluten/Wheat free solu

You may know Joanna Follings from the pages of farm publications where she shares crop advice as part of OMAFRA’s Cereal Specialist role. Joanna shares her own advice with us, and how prioritizing positive relationships makes reaching our own goals easier. Please tell us a bit about yourself and your career path. I grew up on a dairy and cash crop farm near Ayr, Ontario, so from a pretty young age I developed a strong passion for agriculture. I attended the University of Guel