HEALTHY EATING

Paying attention to what, when, how often, and how much you eat can be the first step to helping you eat better.

What kinds of foods should I eat?

Every 5 years the Government releases dietary guidelines that recommend what kinds of food to eat and to limit so you can have a healthy eating plan

Eat more of these nutrient-rich foods

Nutrients-like vitamins, minerals, and dietary Fiber-nourish our bodies by giving them what they need to be healthy. The guidelines advise adults to eat the following foods because they are rich in nutrients:

• fruits and vegetables

•  whole grains, like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice

•  seafood, lean meats, poultry, and eggs

•  fat-free or low-fat milk and cheese, or substitutes (like soy or rice milk) that are high in vitamin D and calcium

• beans, nuts, and seeds

Eat less of these foods

    Some foods have many calories but few of the vitamins, minerals, or fiber your body needs. Added sugars, solid fats, and refined grains pack a lot of calories into food but do not add nutrients. The Government’s dietary guidelines recommend that you limit foods such as these

•  sugar-sweetened drinks and desserts

•  foods with butter, shortening, or other fats that are solid at room temperature

• white bread, rice, and pasta that are made from refined grains