What’s nice about the new food guide is that it’s more inclusive of cultures that don’t eat meat or dairy, or that have other food requirements. The 2019 guide gives us an image of an “ideal” plate, with one half containing vegetables and fruits, one quarter containing protein foods and the other quarter containing whole grain foods. The old recommendation of having a glass of milk on the side is now substituted with water instead!
I think the food guide lessens the stigma around foods that fall outside of meat-centred diets, like plant-based proteins and nutritious vegetables. Since viewing the new guide, I’ve upped my fruit and vegetable intake and have been more mindful of the processed foods in my diet.
The next time you go to Lenny, or the grocery store, be sure to reach for:
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¼ plate of:
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whole grains foods: brown rice, whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, popcorn, etc
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¼ plate of:
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protein: nuts (peanuts, walnuts), chickpeas, kidney beans, tofu, chicken, beef, seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), etc
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½ a plate of:
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Veggies: Spinach, sweet potato, zucchini, sweet peas, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, etc
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Fruit: Berries, apples, bananas, grapes, oranges, etc
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For more information on the food guide and other government health recommendations, visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canada-food-guide/resources/resources-download.html
Happy eating!