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.