Many things influence our food choices and eating habits such as our culture, environment and our own personal preferences. But with so many eating lifestyles out there, it’s hard to know which one is actually best for you.
Every day we are bombarded with endless ads about food, diets, and health trends, yet we don’t know what to do with all that information. One thing we know for sure is that we want to balance a healthy lifestyle while still being able to enjoy of our favorite foods.
Recent evidence shows that the use of MyPlate can help us do just that. According to a recent study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, following the MyPlate guide leads to healthier dietary choices. It also provides a more flexible framework for healthy eating.
People who use MyPlate compared to people who don’t have reported consumption of less sodium, fewer refined grains and less added sugars. They have also reported eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains—all key recommendations in the Dietary Guidelines which serves as a science-based foundation for vital nutrition recommendations for the nation.
MyPlate is your daily reminder to live a healthy life. It gives you the five food groups that are the building blocks for a healthy diet. It is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and it gives you easy tips to make healthier food choices.
By varying fruits, vegetables and protein sources, MyPlate allows you to create your preferred eating style.
MyPlate Tips to Help You Eat Better and Improve Your Health
- Make half your plate fruits and vegetables—aim for colorful fruits and veggies
- Make half your grains whole grains—try oatmeal, brown rice, whole-grain bread
- Vary your protein—try unsalted nuts and seeds, beans and peas, seafood, lean meats and poultry
- Drink and eat beverages and food with less sodium, saturated fat and added sugars
There is no doubt that we all want to better our health. MyPlate is a free resource and excellent guide as you work to achieve a healthier lifestyle! While there is no one plan that fits all, there seems to be a connection with MyPlate and better food choices.
To learn more about MyPlate, visit choosemyplate.gov and check out their food gallery. Remember to always consult your doctor or health professional first before starting a new regimen.
Our blog is full of healthy recipes that can help you add more variety to your diet. To check them out, type the word “recipe” in the search box.
By Darlene Lopez
Intern, Tarrant Area Food Bank
