Advice for Healthy Eating
I’m trying to eat healthier, but I need some advice. I heard about MyPlate, but how do I make that work for me?
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Changing your eating habits takes some time but is well worth the effort. Here are the top 10 tips from www.ChooseMyPlate.gov:
- Make half your plate veggies and fruits. Choose red, orange and dark green vegetables more often.
- Add lean protein, such as lean beef, pork, chicken, turkey or beans.
- Include whole grains. Look for 100% whole grain on the food label.
- Don’t forget the dairy. Pair your meal with a cup of fat-free or low-fat milk.
- Avoid extra fat. Try sprinkling low-fat Parmesan cheese or lemon on vegetables instead of heavy sauces.
- Take your time. Eat slowly. Enjoy the taste and textures of foods.
- Use a smaller plate.
- Take control of your food. Eat at home more often. Try baked foods instead of fried.
- Try new foods, such as mango, lentils or kale.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthful way. Try fruit for dessert. Make a fruit parfait with yogurt. Bake apples and top with cinnamon.
Julie Garden-Robinson, Food and Nutrition Specialist, NDSU Extension Service
