When starting down the path of healthy eating, it is important to take one step at a time. Begin by choosing one or two of these helpful tips created by the USDA and found at ChooseMyPlate.gov.
Build a healthy plate
- Make half your plate fruits and vegetables
- Switch to skim or 1% milk
- Make at least half your grains whole
- Vary your protein food choices
- Keep your food safe to eat - learn more at www.FoodSafety.gov
Cut back on foods high in solid fats, added sugars, and salt
- Choose foods and drinks with little or no added sugars
- Look out for salt (sodium) in foods you buy - it all adds up
- Eat fewer foods that are high in solid fats
Eat the right amount of calories for you
- Enjoy your food, but eat less
- Cook more often at home, where you are in control of what's in your food
- When eating out, choose lower calorie menu options
- Write down what you eat to keep track of how much you eat
- If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so sensibly - limit to one drink a day for women or two drinks a day for men
Be physically active your way
- Pick an activity that you find enjoyable
- Start off with 10 minutes of physical activity; every minute counts
Note to parents: It is important for parents to understand that they are their children’s role model. Be sure to encourage your child to live a healthy life by setting a positive example. (ChooseMyPlate.gov).