How To Create A Healthy Plate?

A healthy plate includes each of the food groups: fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and dairy. Every meal may not achieve this but averaging about one serving of each food group and most meals will get you that much closer to meeting your health goals. 

Eating your daily requirement of essential nutrients doesn’t just ward off disease it also boosts your energy and mood, helping you feel your best every day. But what food groups and how much should you eat to be sure you're getting the nutrients you need? It all starts with your plate.

Making food choices for a healthy lifestyle can be as simple as using these 10 Tips :

1-  Balance Calories

2- Avoid Oversize Portions

3- Make Half Your Plate Fruit And Vegetables

4- Eat Less

5- Switch To Fat Free Or Low Fat Milk

6- Eat Less

7- Use Whole Grains

8- Compare Sodium In Food

9- Drink Water Or Unsweetened Beverages

10- Enjoy Your Food

The main message of the Healthy Eating Plate is to focus on diet quality:

The type of carbohydrate in the diet is more important than the amount of carbohydrate in the diet, because some sources of carbohydrate like vegetables (other than potatoes), fruits, whole grains, and beans are healthier than others.

The Healthy Eating Plate also advises consumers to avoid sugary beverages, a major source of calories usually with little nutritional value in the American diet.

The Healthy Eating Plate encourages consumers to use healthy oils, and it does not set a maximum on the percentage of calories people should get each day from healthy sources of fat. In this way, the Healthy Eating Plate recommends the opposite of the low-fat message promoted for decades by the USDA.

Need help with portion control?

Sometimes this can be the hardest part to gauge. Preparing meals at home can help you control your portions as long we avoid second or third helpings. Use smaller plates and bowls to help you choose smaller amounts of food. Have meals at the table instead of in front of the television being aware of what you’re eating will help you to eat smaller portions.

When dining out, ask about half-size or lunch-size portions. Ask for a to-go box and put away half your meal before you start eating. Take small sips of water in between bites to help you slow down and recognize when you are full.

The content presented here is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and it should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.