The new face (graphic symbol) of nutritional advice for consumers was released recently by the United States Department of Agriculture — MyPlate.
The new MyPlate icon is a simple plate split into four sections representing a different type of food (protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetatables). Each section varies in size depending on the recommended portion of each food an individual should eat.
Here are the Dietary Guidelines 2010 messages for consumers:
Balancing calories
* Enjoy your food, but eat less.
* Avoid over-sized portions.
Foods to increase
* Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
* 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 lower numbers.
* Drink water instead of sugary drinks.