New Food Pyramid Shaped as a Plate

New Food Pyramid Shaped as a Plate Makes Choosing Healthy Meals Easier

A new food pyramid, called MyPlate, was introduced to show people what a typical meal should include and in what proportions.  Fruits and vegetables contain important nutrients such as fiber and potassium that help reduce the risk of developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure so these food groups are well represented in the MyPlate illustration. 

Whole grains allow food to be broken down slowly thereby preventing sharp spikes in blood glucose as can occur with refined grain products. Whole grains also help lower cholesterol.

Protein sources should consist of lean meats including at least 8 oz of fish per week. Calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D are some of the reasons that having dairy at each meal is beneficial.

The new MyPlate also shows the proper portion size when compared to your standard dinner plate, which is an easier way for most people to remember this vital information.  This differs from the food pyramids of the past that gave recommendations on how many servings a person should consume from each individual food group with no attention given to portion size.