Oh, Canada. We’re world-renowned for our winter, with iconic images of igloos, polar bears and parkas superimposed all over our national mythology. It’s a well-deserved reputation. Our winter is no joke. Here are some facts about our brutal winter that will amaze you – and make you proud to be a member of the toughest winter nation on Earth.

Coldest. Day. Ever.

The coldest temperature ever recorded in Canada was logged on February 3, 1947 in the Yukon village of Snag. The mercury hit -63 degrees Celsius, which is a similar temperature to the surface of Mars. The title of coldest city in Canada is jointly held by Regina and Saskatoon, both of which have registered -50 degree Celsius days.

Brrr.

Grab The Shovels

On February 11, 1999, Tahsta Lake, BC had the biggest one-day snowfall in Canadian history: 145 cm of the white stuff came down in a single day. Compare that to Revelstoke, BC, which received 2446.5 cm of snow in 1971 (that’s 80 feet of wintry goodness right there). On average, Saguenay, QC is Canada’s snowiest city, averaging 342 cm of snow annually.

Dress In Layers

A well-known Canadian proverb states that if you don’t like the weather, you should wait fifteen minutes, because it’ll change. Pincher Creek, AB is proof of that going from -19 degrees Celsius to a summery 22 degrees in a single hour. Definitely a bit of a change.

It’s A Party

Winter is all about attitude. From Quebec City’s famous Carnaval to Edmonton’s Ice on Whyte, Canadians see the winter as a season to enjoy. In Montreal, a giant igloo is erected on the banks of the St. Lawrence and transforms into an all-night party and dance festival. Just wear two pairs of socks (and maybe some long johns).

Wintertime Party Trick

How do you know it’s real winter? When you can do this.

Despite one in six Canadians now known to be living with a gluten intolerance, it is still believed that Celiac disease and other gluten intolerances are believed to be highly underdiagnosed.

Four notable symptoms often associated with a potential gluten intolerance include:

1. Unstable bowel movements and issues, including cramps, bloating, excessive flatulence, chronic diarrhea, or constipation, have been linked to a gluten intolerance.

2. Dermatitis herpetiformis, an intense itching rash, or any skin inflammation may be a severe reaction to gluten products.

3. Joint and muscle inflammation, according to The Arthritis Foundation, both have been linked to gluten intolerance and celiac disease.

4. Headaches and migraines are also common symptoms of gluten sensitivity. A study on celiac disease and gluten intolerance has reported that 56% of those with gluten intolerance exhibit headaches and migraines as symptoms.

Three ways that you can test for gluten intolerance:

1. Thanks to medical advances, a two-week elimination diet is no longer necessary. Simple blood screening tests are now easily accessible to diagnose gluten intolerance.

2. If you are keen on taking up a two-week challenge, however, all you need to do is eat gluten-free for two weeks to look for any improvements. It is important to note that going gluten-free means 100% gluten-free. Like allergies, even traces and miniscule amounts of gluten can cause an immune reaction.

3. According to the Canadian Celiac Association, a small bowel biopsy can be performed by a gastrointestinal specialist for a definitive diagnosis.

It is important to speak with a medical expert when determining if you have a gluten intolerance as early as possible, as it may lead to long-term damages to the body if left undiagnosed and treated.

This January, London Drugs is proud to be sponsoring Canada’s largest gluten free event taking place in Vancouver, BC. Discover, sample, and save on hundred’s of gluten free products, while learning from leading experts. Taking place January 16 and 17, at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

For more details, please visit www.GlutenFreeExpo.ca

The holidays are here! Behind schedule? Don’t stress! We’ve collected five simple last-minute hacks for treats and tricks to make your Christmas simple, fun, and super festive. 

Crafty Santa Cups

Photo via Homemaking Hacks

Make a red Solo cup into Santa by adding a few affordable, cute accessories. This is a great family-friendly way to cut down on the dishes this holiday season. Plus, if you get the personalized version, everyone will ho ho ho their way through drinks, dinner, and dessert with just one cup!

[More at Homemaking Hacks]

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No one has time to read all the lifestyle tips on the Internet, so our editors have selected the best. Read on for smart advice on beagles, bruises, bleaching, Brussels sprouts, and more—our very favourite life tips and tricks.

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How to Remove Annoying Sticky Residue from Marble

Marble is a relatively soft rock, susceptible to damage, so it gets a bad rap for requiring frequent maintenance. With this simple trick, however, you’ll be able to clean off even the stickiest of messes with ease.

1. The materials You need cooking oil—either canola or olive will do—and a willing pair of hands.
2. The setup Pour your cooking oil over the sticky residue and gently work it in using your fingers. Since marble is so soft, avoid using metal utensils or steel wools and instead, use your fingernails to peel off the residue.
3. The cleanup Once all of the residue is removed, rinse the area with warm water and dry it.

[More at Apartment Therapy]

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