Final answer:
Cheese is part of the dairy group in the MYPLATE food guide and should be included in a balanced meal. One ounce of cheddar cheese or equivalent dairy servings should accompany each meal. Older adults should consider lower-fat options and portion control as part of their healthy eating habits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cheese fits into the MYPLATE recommendations for older adults in the dairy group. MYPLATE, a healthy eating guide developed by the USDA, suggests that dairy products like cheese should accompany each meal, ensuring a balanced diet. The dairy food group, represented by a drink in the MYPLATE infographic, can also include servings of other dairy items such as cheese. In the context of MYPLATE, one ounce of cheddar cheese would qualify as a serving from the dairy category. It is important, particularly for older adults, to consider the type and quantity of cheese consumed to maintain a well-balanced diet.
To illustrate, a balanced meal including dairy could consist of a portion of vegetables, like kale, a serving of fruit, like an apple, a source of protein, such as a turkey sandwich, grains, and a dairy product like an ounce of cheese or a glass of milk. Since older adults may have different nutritional needs, using a smaller plate and opting for lower-fat dairy options can help manage portion sizes and caloric intake without feeling deprived. Cheese, as part of the dairy group, contributes essential nutrients like calcium and protein, thereby supporting bone health and muscle maintenance in aging populations.