Have you ever taken a look at what your plate looks like? Choosing healthy foods is only half the battle; you also need to be choosing more fruits and vegetables and eating smaller portions of meat and grains. The USDA has developed My Plate, which is a great teaching tool that shows you how to make your plate. I must add, I created and I started educating with a plate that was nearly identical to this plate about 10 years ago.
According to My Plate, make half your plate fruits and vegetables. Any fruit or 100% fruit juice constitutes as a fruit, as does any vegetables or 100% vegetable juice.
Grains are divided into two groups: whole rains and refined grains. Examples of whole grains are brown rice, popcorn, and oatmeal, while refined grains are items such as white rice and flour tortillas. Aim to make a quarter of your plate from grains and at least half of them whole.
Meat, poultry, seafood, beans, eggs, nuts, and seeds are all foods in the protein food group. Variety is key. Keep your protein to less than a fourth of your plate.
My Plate suggests choosing fat-free or low-fat dairy. Milks, cheese, and yogurt are all parts of the dairy group. Additionally, I recommend organic dairy.
Keep this model in mind next time you load up your plate to make healthier choices and live better! For more information, you can check out www.ChooseMyPlate.gov
Assistance Provided by Tori Thompson
