USDA Food Guide

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Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Nutrition experts from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services update their food guide every 5 years. It is for both children and adults. And it's meant to help people control portion sizes and make the healthiest choices possible within food groups.

For a personalized food guide, go to the interactive website www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.

ChooseMyPlate

The MyPlate design reminds people to make healthy food choices, including the following:

  • Eat and drink the right amount for you.
  • Avoid oversized portions.
  • Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
  • Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.
  • Make at least half of your grains whole grains.
  • Compare sodium (salt) in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals-and choose the foods with lower numbers.
  • Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

Current as of: September 20, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.