Eating Right and Keeping it Simple
Eating right doesn’t have to be complicated- simply begin to incorporate a healthy eating plan into your daily routine. These recommendations below from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can help get you started.
- Emphasize fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products.
- Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.
- Make sure your diet is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium) and added sugars.
Make Your Calories Count
Think nutrient-rich rather than “good” or “bad” foods. The majority of your
food choices should be packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other
nutrients, and lower in calories. Making smart food choices can help you stay
healthy, manage your weight and be physically active.
Focus on Variety
Eat a variety of foods from all the food groups to get the nutrients your body needs. Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, frozen or canned. Eat more dark green vegetables such as leafy greens and broccoli and orange vegetables including carrots and sweet potatoes. Vary your protein choices with more fish, beans and peas. Eat at least three ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day.
Know Your Fats
Look for foods low in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol to help reduce your risk of heart disease. Most of the fats you eat should be monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Check the Nutrition Facts panel on food labels for total fat and saturated fat.
By following these guidelines and keeping things simple you can improve your diet and work towards a healthy eating plan. Check out the Half My Plate app and get the free customizable tracker that helps you reach your goals for a healthy diet by inspiring you to make half your plate fruits and vegetables. It includes personalized fruit and vegetable recommended amounts and a searchable database of recipes that feature fruits and vegetables.
