On Thursday May 9, I was one of 10 speakers who was given the opportunity to grace the stage of the Winter Garden Theatre. This was the "Top Ten Event," in support of Autism Ontario. Each speaker had 10 minutes to offer words of wisdom on the "one thing you should know before you die!" Read on for my five survival tips.

We cannot force people to make healthier choices but empowering them with proper information is the first step. With clear labeling, the customer then has more knowledge about what they're eating and can make an informed decision. The control is in their hands, not the restaurants'.

When we eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, we feel better, have increased energy and improve our immune system. Here are my favourite picks of delicious affordable foods that can help fight chronic disease. And the bonus is that nutrient dense food tastes great!

A large part of the population suffers from side effects connected to the consumption of wheat. The result has been a strong physical reaction by many to these new forms of wheat including weight gain. Once you cut out wheat your blood sugar stops spiking, your appetite is reduced and thus you lose weight. Easy formula, but challenging to maintain.

Just like you take your sweaters out of storage, so should you swap out your lighter summer sippers, for more substantive winter wines. Think about the things you like to eat during these blustery, dark, Canadian evenings. Likely stews, casseroles and roasts top your list of culinary go-to's. Those easy, breezy, refreshing whites aren't going to cut it with robust meals. Here's a few of our winter time wine picks, you are welcome to make them yours.

So often we're led to believe that certain foods we consider healthy are also "diet" foods. For example fruits, vegetables, olive oils, lean protein, yogurts, marinades or anything labelled low fat, low calorie or low sugar have to constitute a healthier diet. But just don't take these foods at face value. You have to be careful of how you consume them. Check out these top five culprits.

The smell factor, also known as aromatherapy, is so powerful. It can uplift you on gloomy days, it can pick you up and it can even bring you back to an early childhood memory. If you're like me, not wanting to depend on medicinal results, aromatherapy is an excellent option. The following are some examples of how aromatherapy could improve your life...