Each year the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics sponsors a campaign inviting everyone to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. This year's theme is Personalizing Your Plate which focuses on the fact that we are all unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds and tastes!
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and health. Foods that we grow up eating are often influenced by our family’s history and culture. Many cuisines offer dishes which include a variety of foods from all of the food groups. Fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy come in all sizes, shapes, and colors. The combination of foods and amounts will depend on you. Personalize Your Plate by including foods that you prefer from each food group. Including a variety of foods can help you get all of the nutrients that are needed for good health.
These tips can help you get started:
• Fill half your plate with fruits and veggies. Get creative with produce by trying an assortment of colors and textures.
• Experiment with different grains. Try substituting whole grains for refined grains in recipes.
• Choose lean protein foods. Vary your choices to include seafood, beans, peas and lentils, as well as eggs, lean cuts of meat and poultry that are prepared in a healthful way, such as baked or grilled instead of fried.
A healthful eating style can be as unique as you!