My plate was created as a tool to help the average American eat one healthy mill day
My Plate, also known as the MyPlate Food Guide, was created by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a visual representation of a healthy meal. It aims to provide a simple and practical tool for the average American to make healthier food choices and create balanced meals.
My Plate consists of five food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. The plate is divided into four sections, with each section representing a different food group's recommended proportion on a plate.
The first section, representing fruits, should fill about one-fourth of the plate. This encourages individuals to include a variety of fruits in their diet, promoting a high intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
The second section, representing vegetables, also occupies about one-fourth of the plate. It emphasizes the importance of consuming various types of vegetables, both raw and cooked, to obtain essential nutrients and dietary fiber.
The third section, representing grains, takes up another one-fourth of the plate. It promotes the consumption of whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and whole grain pasta to ensure adequate fiber intake and essential nutrients.
The final section, representing protein, occupies the remaining one-fourth of the plate. It encourages the inclusion of lean proteins like fish, poultry, beans, and nuts while minimizing consumption of processed and fatty meats.
Additionally, My Plate suggests including a serving of dairy, such as milk, yogurt, or cheese, on the side to fulfill the need for calcium and other essential nutrients.
By presenting a visual representation of a balanced meal, My Plate aims to simplify the concept of healthy eating and empower individuals to make informed choices. It serves as a guide to help the average American create a nutritious and well-balanced plate that can contribute to overall health and well-being.