Harvard Health Publications in conjunction with the Harvard School of Public Health have released the Healthy Eating Plate, a new take on MyPlate, released by the USDA back in June. The Healthy Eating Plate is based on the most up-to-date scientific recommendations, laid out in easy to understand portions, and is free of any influence by the food industry (*cough* Meat Lobby *cough*) or agricultural interests. Though essentially the same in layout, the mere fact that it is free of outside influences gives it quite a leg-up on its USDA predecessor. For more information read the recommendations below and click on the image above for the official press release.
Here is what the Healthy Eating Plate recommends:
- Make half your meal vegetables and fruits. Go for variety. And keep in mind that potatoes and french fries don’t count.
- Choose whole grains whenever you can. Limit refined grains, like white rice and white bread, because the body rapidly turns them into blood sugar.
- Pick the healthiest sources of protein, such as fish, poultry, beans, and nuts; cut back on red meat; avoid bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats.
- Healthy oils (like olive and canola oil) are good for you. Don’t be afraid to use them for cooking, on salad, and at the table.
- Drink water, tea, or coffee. Milk and dairy are not must-have foods—limit them to 1-2 servings/day. Go easy on juice. Avoid sugary drinks.
- And stay active!
