(NC) Thanks to Canadian farmers, it is easier than ever to eat healthy foods while also protecting the planet. That's because they are growing modern plant varieties that provide higher yields and support sustainable farming practices, as well as creating nutritious food choices.

Canola is an excellent heart-healthy cooking oil that is low in saturated fat. A truly Canadian crop, it's an oilseed rape variety that was developed in the 1970s by Canadian plant breeders. The name canola is a combination of Canada and ola, the Latin word for oil. Fields of yellow flowers growing on the Prairies are an iconic Canadian image and canola's healthy fat profile can help Canadians reduce saturated fat levels in their diets.

According to Shaunda Durance-Tod, registered dietitian with the Canola Council of Canada, canola oil contains only seven per cent saturated fat, less than other cooking oils. It is also rich in monounsaturated and omega-3 polyunsaturated fats and a source of vitamin E.

Herbicide-tolerant canola varieties give farmers more options for weed control, so they no longer have to resort to tilling the soil to control weeds. This is good for the environment because it greatly reduces soil erosion, keeps moisture in the ground and improves wildlife habitats and food sources.

Pulses — peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas — are also a sustainable and healthy food choice. Research has shown that eating pulses for at least three weeks significantly reduces bad cholesterol levels, which can lower heart attack and stroke risks. They are one of the few crops that make their own nitrogen fertilizer using nitrogen they pull from the air. This improves soil health and lowers costs for farmers, while giving pulses one of the lowest carbon footprints of all plant and animal-based proteins.

Soybeans provide many food choices, from vegetarian options like tofu and soy burgers to frozen desserts and beverages. In 2015, Health Canada approved a health claim linking the consumption of protein-rich soy food to lowering cholesterol levels. This was based on scientific evidence showing that consuming at least 25 grams of soy protein per day helps reduce cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease.

Most Canadian soybeans are grown in Ontario due to its long growing season, but newer varieties that are harvest-ready sooner mean farmers in other provinces can now also grow the crop.

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