Others, such as animal fats, are solid and should be avoided.Įxercise and everyday physical activity should also be included with a healthy dietary plan. Oils are not a food group, yet some, such as nut oils, contain essential nutrients and can be included in the diet. Vary your protein routine-choose more fish, nuts, seeds, peas, and beans. Choose low-fat or lean meats and poultry. Focus on fat-free or low-fat products, as well as those that are high in calcium. Milk products and many foods made from milk are considered part of this food group. Fruits may be fresh, canned, frozen, or dried, and may be whole, cut up, or pureed.ĭairy. Any fruit or 100% fruit juice counts as part of the fruit group. Choose a variety of vegetables, including dark green, red, and orange vegetables, legumes (peas and beans), and starchy vegetables.įruits. Examples include whole wheat, brown rice, and oatmeal. Foods that are made from wheat, rice, oats, cornmeal, barley, or another cereal grain are grain products. The MyPlate icon is divided into 5 food group categories, emphasizing the nutritional intake of the following: Department of Health and Human Services have prepared the following food plate to guide parents in selecting foods for children age 2 and older. MyPlate can help you and your adolescent eat a variety of foods while encouraging the right amount of calories and fat. The MyPlate icon is a guideline to help you and your adolescent eat a healthy diet. Limit red meat intake, and choose lean cuts when possible. Make sure your adolescent watches (and decreases, if necessary) his or her sugar intake.ĭecrease the use of butter and heavy gravies.Įat more chicken and fish. When cooking for your adolescent, try to bake or broil instead of fry.

Fruit juice can have a lot of calories, so limit your adolescent's intake. Try to avoid drinks that are high in sugar. Increase fiber in the diet and decrease the use of salt.ĭrink water. Discuss the following healthy eating recommendations with your adolescent to ensure he or she is following a healthy eating plan: It is important to discuss your adolescent's diet with his or her health care provider before making any dietary changes or placing your adolescent on a diet. The following are some general guidelines for helping your adolescent eat healthy. Eating healthy is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and is something that should be taught at a young age.

Healthy food choices