Final answer:
MyPlate includes five food groups: vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy, with a focus on whole fruits and vegetables, whole grains, variety in proteins, and low-fat dairy options. It emphasizes consuming these foods in specific proportions for a balanced and nutritious diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
MyPlate focuses on five different food groups to provide guidelines on the types and quantities of food that should be eaten every day for a healthy diet. These food groups include: vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy. The oils group is also considered part of the MyPlate dietary recommendations but is not depicted as a distinct plate segment.
A key message from MyPlate is to "Make half your plate fruits and vegetables". The other half of the plate should consist of grains and protein, with an emphasis on whole grains and a variety of protein sources. Dairy products like milk, cheese, or yogurt are recommended to accompany each meal, preferably low-fat or non-fat options.
Understanding the importance of these food groups is crucial as each of them contains a similar combination of essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Tools like MyPlate, and accompanying resources like the ChooseMyPlate.gov website, help in planning a healthy diet and making wise food choices.