New Food PLATE Replaces Pyramid

If you are a visual learner (and most of us are), the new FOOD PLATE the USDA and First Lady Michelle Obama unveiled yesterday should fit better in your world than the traditional food pyramid of the past (hello 1970's!).

You can see the plate promotes lots of fruits and vegetables, which cover half the circle.  Grains take up about a quarter and proteins a little less.

The little circle of dairy off to the side is a little bit controversial, but milk never hurt anyone. .. .but cheese times a day?  Hmmm.

The website, www.choosemyplate.gov is also giving out some great and easy ways to keep your plate balanced (keep in mind this is your plate for every meal, not just all day).

Balance Your Calories

• Enjoy your food.  Eat slowly, but eat less
• Avoid over-sized portions (ask for a to-go box at a restaurant as soon as you get your meal so you can portion control there, too)

Foods To Increase

• Make half your plate fruits and veggies
• 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 the lower numbers
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks