Jun 14 2011
Choose MyPlate Replaces MyPyramid
A new icon called “Choose MyPlate” was introduced and is intended to replace MyPyramid as the new guideline for healthy eating. I like the new graphic because it is quick and to the point. In fact, I have been using the plate method for teaching healthy eating for quite some time, and the new icon demonstrates the plate method well. The message is very simple: Fill half of your plate with fruits and/or vegetables. Use the other (quarter) sections of the plate for grains and lean sources of protein. When you redistribute food on your plate in this way, you are, in essence, reducing calories, increasing fiber, and cutting down on fat. Along with the plate comes a few very general recommendations:
| Balancing Calories | ||
| ● | Enjoy your food, but eat less. | |
| ● | Avoid oversized portions. | |
| Foods to Increase | ||
| ● | Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. | |
| ● | Make at least half your grains whole grains. | |
| ● | Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk. | |
| Foods to Reduce | ||
| ● | Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals ― and choose the foods with lower numbers. | |
| ● | Drink water instead of sugary drinks. | |
The MyPlate icon does not address all the specific issues we want to know, such as how much fat and sugar we should consume in a day. However, for general planning purposes, simple ideas seem to work the best. Many people struggle with trying to figure out the correct number of food servings they should eat based on food pyramids or food labels. What do you think about the new icon?
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