Why do you suppose athletes cross-train?
Why should a competitive runner ever ride a bike or step near a dumbbell?

The answer is simple: diversification reduces the risk of injury and can improve overall performance. The same holds true for your investments. Investing all of your money in a single company or industry makes for an “injury-prone” portfolio. A downfall impacting that particular industry (recent oil prices come to mind) will have a direct performance impact on your entire investment. By diversifying your money across companies, sectors and countries, you reduce the risk that a single event will put your entire portfolio out of action.

Want a free diversification review of your investments?

Contact Thomas Johnson, Cascade Financial Group, ThomasJohnsonMB@outlook.com

Podiatrists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot problems, specifically, thickened nails, fungal nails, calluses, corns, planter warts and ingrown nails. We can help with orthotics (a device which helps to support or brace a weak or less effective joint). By conducting a “gait analysis’ (biomechanical examination) we can develop a treatment plan. This could be advice on exercise, appropriate footwear, use of padding, insoles, or bespoke custom casted orthotics. We have knowledge of the health problems which have a big impact on feet: diabetes, arthritis, circulation concerns. We can help with wound care, which may be needed with these conditions. Podiatry is not covered by Public Health, and patients are responsible for their fees.

Dr. Gillian Aldous, Aldous Podiatry

Have you ever looked at your investment statements and immediately felt stressed? Maybe your portfolio has dipped in value more than you’re comfortable with or everyone around you seems to be growing his or her money while you stay stagnant.

If this is the case, you and your portfolio need a financial checkup. Just like your fitness plan, your investment plan should be tailored to you and your unique lifestyle. This means selecting a strategy that not only helps achieve your goals, but also fits your tolerance for risk and volatility. There’s no need to dread opening your next statement when you and your investments are in sync.

Vitamin A – helps maintain good eyesight – good for growth and skin properties – promotes normal development of teeth and skeletal tissue. Women need 700 milligrams per day and men need 900 milligrams per day.

Foods: dark green and bright coloured vegetables, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, winter squash, spinach, lettuce.

Bonus Nutrients: most vegetables are loaded with fiber and other vitamins, including C.

Simple Tips: have a salad with mixed greens along with dinner, snack on carrot sticks or red peppers.

When older kids teach younger children about nutrition and benefits of exercise, the little ones seem to lose weight and gain knowledge about healthy living. This program – called Healthy Buddies – was tested in Manitoba elementary schools. It helped heavy kids lose an average of half an inch off their waist and increased their knowledge of diet and exercise.

Younger children pay more attention to messages from older peers says Dr. David Katz, director of Yale University Prevention Research Center. Parents feel powerless to overcome the negative influence of peers eating badly. We teach healthy living skills to older kids and they benefit. They can help pass these skills along to younger kids, both groups benefit. Healthy Buddies has lessons that focus on physical activity, healthy eating, self-esteem and body image.