As Canadians continue to be hit with higher food costs, a local dietician says it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet to help prevent negative health outcomes in the future.

The Thompson Clinic’s Kathleen Hodgins says food insecurity is one of the main nutritional issues she sees in the north, adding that affordability can be a barrier for those looking to better their diets.

She adds that not enough people in the country eat the right amount of fruits and veggies they need, especially as the consumption of processed foods goes up.

Hodgins encourages those who are interested in consulting a dietician to do so.