The MyPlate guidelines were released by the USDA to help Americans eat healthier. MyPlate provides information on all of the food groups, giving you the ability to eat a well-balanced diet. Your children will likely learn about MyPlate in school. By enforcing the guidelines at home, you'll help teach your children that it's important.
Key Points
- Roughly 50% of the grains you eat each day should be whole grains.
- Grains help you get several important nutrients, like fiber and B vitamins.
- Many popular foods, like rice and pasta, are great ways to get your grains in for the day.
MyPlate Grains Guidelines
When it comes to grains, the amount you need to eat each day varies from 1 3/4 ounces to ten ounces, depending on age and gender. Roughly half of these grains should be whole grains, while the other half can be refined grains. Whole grains can often be found in pasta, oats, and some cereals.
It is usually easy to meet your daily grains requirements. Bagels, breads, cereals, pasta, pancakes, and rice are all ways to eat grains, among other foods. Kids enjoy many of the foods in this food group, meaning it's relatively easy to get them to eat enough each day. Give them cereal or oatmeal for breakfast, and they'll be well on their way.
Grains are an important source of several important nutrients, including fiber and B vitamins. Fiber helps keep your digestive system on track. The healthy bacteria in your gut feed on fiber. Without enough of it, you may experience side effects like bloating and constipation.
Whole grains are important because they help prevent certain diseases, in addition to providing you with nutrients. Studies have shown that consuming whole grains regularly may reduce your risk for heart disease. Whole grains can also help with weight management.
