Final answer:
A balanced and nutritious meal according to MyPlate guidelines should consist of four different types of foods: fruits and vegetables (half of the plate), whole grains (one-quarter), protein (one-quarter), and a serving of dairy.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the MyPlate guidelines developed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for a balanced and healthy diet, four different types of foods should typically be put on a plate at a time. This includes:Planning a balanced diet using the MyPlate approach is recommended for achieving proper nutrition. According to MyPlate, half of your plate should have fruits and vegetables, one-quarter should have whole grains, and one-quarter should have protein. This means that typically, three different ideas of food should be put on a plate at a time for balanced nutrition.
- Fruits and vegetables making up half of the plate
- Whole grains occupying one-quarter of the plate
- Proteins filling the remaining one-quarter of the plate
- Dairy products, such as a glass of low-fat or non-fat milk or a dairy alternative
To achieve the most nutrients within the fewest calories, a balanced diet is essential. This involves choosing a variety of nutrient-rich foods across all food groups to ensure adequacy, balance, calorie control, moderation, and variety.