MyPlate Offers a Simple Solution for Diets

(Updated: Dec. 1, 2025, 9:23 a.m.)
My Plate logo with colorful sections showing each food group

Eating well is about making small, smart choices over time. It’s time to let go of perfection and embrace the small wins as you go, because creating a plate doesn’t have to be complicated. MyPlate, created by the USDA, is a visual tool that helps you build balanced meals with the five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy.

Half your plate should be fruits and vegetables. Should it be fresh, frozen or canned? The difference in health benefits is minimal, so don’t let a lack of fresh ingredients stop you. The other half of your plate should be split between whole grains and lean protein. Grains provide fiber and B vitamins, while lean protein helps to build and repair muscles, especially after exercise.

Don’t forget to add a serving of low-fat dairy on the side. Dairy is important for your calcium needs, but feel free to replace it with calcium-fortified soy milk, or even try dark leafy greens (think kale and collard greens), which are calcium-rich.

You can learn more about MyPlate by visiting MyPlate.gov.