Lydia Hall, RDN, LD, community outreach dietitian, Center for Healthy Living, recommends using the MyPlate model as a nutritional tool to help people confidently account for all five food groups that help nourish the body.
“As a registered dietitian, I love how much room MyPlate leaves for creativity and personalization,” Lydia said. This includes cultural preferences, flavors, aromas, temperatures and textures. “MyPlate fits all cultures.”
A balanced meal
Using the MyPlate blueprint, a balanced plate should include:
- Colorful fruits and veggies – Half the plate or 5 cups a day.
- Grains – One-fourth of the plate, half of which should be whole grains.
- Protein – One-fourth of the plate, from plant or animal sources.
- Fat-free or low-fat dairy or nutritionally similar alternatives like fortified unsweetened soy milk.
Within each food group, there is a wide range of options, allowing for variations based on geographic location, traditions and current cultural context.
When cooking a recipe or meal, identify which food groups you have and what might be missing. Lydia recommends adding foods, rather than taking away. “Aim for at least three of the five food groups in meals, using snacks and later meals to fill in any gaps,” she said.
“No matter where you are or what you prefer, MyPlate can help you improve your nutritional balance.”
For more nutrition inspiration, browse our Nutrition & Recipes section on the Parkview Dashboard.
