February 2021

February's featured commodity is canned tuna

February Tidbits Newsletter
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Tips for Picking a Healthy Plate as You Get Older

1. Know what a healthy plate looks like:
The USDA recently unveiled a simpler way to help people see what they should eat each day: it’s called MyPlate. The simple graphic shows exactly how the five food groups should stack upon your plate.
2. Look for important nutrients:
Your plate should look like a rainbow—bright, colored foods are always the best choice! A healthy meal should include: lean protein (lean meats, seafood, eggs, beans), fruits and vegetables (think orange, red, green, and purple), whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat pasta), and low-fat dairy (milk and its alternatives).
3. Read the Nutrition Facts label:
The healthiest foods are whole foods. These are often found on the perimeter of the grocery store in the produce, meat, and dairy sections.
4. Use recommended servings:
The American Heart Association provides recommended daily servings for adults aged 60+.
5. Stay hydrated:
Drink small amounts of fluids consistently throughout the day, like tea, coffee, and water. Keep fluids with sugar and salt at a minimum, unless your doctor has suggested otherwise.
6. Stretch your food budget:
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can help you afford healthy food when you need it. Over 4 million older Americans use SNAP to buy food, and the average senior receives $113 each month. See if the program can help you.

Reprinted in part from National Council on Aging.

​This article does not replace the advice of a medical professional. Please consult with your physician for information and advice regarding your specific dietary needs.

Learn more in this month's edition of Tidbits.