USDA introduces ChooseMyPlate.gov

The USDA has announced a new 'food plate' to encourage Americans to make healthier eating choices. While the USDA has modified the recommendations for a healthy diet since 1880, the food pyramid has been in use since 1992.

The food plate was designed to help people stay within their portions. America is one of the top societies that struggle with obesity and weight loss. In fact, over 2/3 adults are obese and 1/3 of children are obese. This food plate is designed to help make this number decline. Wouldn't it be great to be the healthiest country in the world?

It seems the USDA just moved the food groups around; the serving recommendations stay the same. For instance, meats have moved into the protein category. According to the old design of the pyramid, it recommends 2-3 servings a day for this area of the plate. However, if an Internet user was to look at ChooseMyPlate.gov, they might find this confusing. This is because these servings aren't anywhere to be found on the website.

One good thing I like about this website, however, is it gives food options. For instance, it gives lists of food you may eat. The new plate recommends people have a fruit and vegetable on their plate. These groups are generally 2-5 servings of each group per day. Then, there are the grains which account for 6-11 servings a day. These are foods such as brown rice, whole grain bread, whole-wheat flour or oatmeal. The dairy group at the top of the plate, and it's recommended healthy eaters have 2-3 servings a day. These are items such as milk, yogurt, cheese or low-fat ice cream.

What's important about this circle is two things: 1) Portions and 2) Physical Exercise. However, reading a nutrition label could be tricky. First, look at the serving size. If it says 12 crackers, count them out and stick to it. Next, look at the calories. Try to keep these low; they mean everything else may be high. The fats, cholesterol and sodium are all things you want to keep restricted. However, make sure to get enough of the Vitamin A, Vitamin C, calcium and iron.

I think the new food circle will persuade more people to exercise. This is because of their suggestion list of vigorous exercise on their website. For instance, they suggest a person play tennis, singles or doubles. This incorporates more exercise then hitting a ball to the other end of the court. It also includes running and walking after the stray tennis balls. Walking and running are also very good exercise. However, know how fast you're able to walk or run so you do not tire out easily. The more you get into physical exercise, the more often you'll feel good about yourself.