Add Health to Your Plate in 2021

With the new year just around the corner, it’s time to reflect on past habits and set new intentions for 2021. An achievable goal should be specific, so if you’re hoping to make healthier food choices in the coming year, try one of these MyPlate mottos:

Make Half Your Plate Fruits & Vegetables
Try eating fruit as a snack, and choose several different colored vegetables at lunch and dinner to get the most nutrition from your meal. Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables are a great resource this time of year!

Choose Low-Fat Dairy
Yogurt, cheese, and milk are all great sources of calcium to support bone health. If you don’t eat dairy, swap in a substitute like oat milk, and seek out other calcium-rich foods like dark leafy greens.

Vary Your Protein Routine
Choose lean protein sources like beans, nuts, and tofu more often than higher-fat options like red meats.

Make Half Your Grains Whole Grains
Did you know that whole grains keep you full longer? That’s due to their naturally high fiber content. Whole-grain foods like brown rice, whole wheat tortillas, and oatmeal are also good for your brain because they are a good source of B vitamins.

For more information and tips like this, check out these upcoming virtual SNAP-Ed classes!

Cooking Matters at the Store Tour - January 7, 2021, 3 p.m. to -4 p.m. (register here)
Cooking Matters at the Store Tour - January 11, 2021, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. (register here)
Cooking Matters at the Store Tour - January 14, 2021, noon to 1 p.m. (register here)
Cooking Matters at the Store Tour - January 20, 2021, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. (register here)
Cooking Matters at the Store Tour - January 27, 2021, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. (register here)
10 Tips for Healthy Eating: Choosing MyPlate - February 4-15, 2021, (email Jada@HealthyAcadia.org for info or to register)

For more information and recipes, reach out to your local SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator. Email Allie or Marie in Washington County, and Jada or Nicole in Hancock County.