Out with the pyramid ... in with the plate

Eating right – with a proper balance of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains – is a vital part of health and wellness. Now, at a glance, you can figure out how much of each you need. The government recently unveiled the “MyPlate” image showing about how much of each food group you need each day. The plate replaces the old “food pyramid” which many people felt was as stale as last week’s bread.

“This is a quick, simple reminder for all of us to be more mindful of the foods that we’re eating and as a mom, I can already tell how much this is going to help parents across the country,” said First Lady Michelle Obama. “When mom or dad comes home from a long day of work, we’re already asked to be a chef, a referee, a cleaning crew. So it’s tough to be a nutritionist, too. But we do have time to take a look at our kids’ plates. As long as they’re half full of fruits and vegetables, and paired with lean proteins, whole grains and low-fat dairy, we’re golden. That’s how easy it is.”

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, launched in January, 2011, form the basis of the federal government’s nutrition education programs, federal nutrition assistance programs, and dietary advice provided by health and nutrition professionals.

Some of the tips included in the Guidelines are:

• Enjoy your food, but eat less.
• Avoid oversized portions.
• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
• Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.
• Make at least half your grains whole grains
• Compare sodium (salt) in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals, and choose foods with lower numbers.
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

For more information about nutrition, speak with your doctor of chiropractic or visit www.ChooseMyPlate.gov