Newswise — The food pyramid that for 20 years has been the symbol of a healthy diet has been bumped by a circle icon called MyPlate that is more “socially friendly” and also can be quickly adjusted to accommodate people with special diet needs, such as diabetics or individuals struggling with their weight, says a Baylor University dietitian and national nutrition expert.
“This is something people can take ownership of,” said Suzy Weems, Ph.D., chair of Baylor’s department of family and consumer sciences and past chair of the American Dietetic Association’s legislative and public policy committee.The new icon, with guidelines approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, may be viewed at www.choosemyplate.gov. The plate shape is split into four sections, each with a different color representing a food type (protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables). The wedges are different sizes, depending on the recommended portions, and a smaller circle next to the plate suggests a dairy product, especially milk.
With just a mouse click on a section, such as fruits, a viewer can see numerous menu choices, Weems said. One more click, and a photo with a recommended measurement of the choice pops up.
“The plate is easily modified for individuals with unique needs and different ages,” said Weems, who has used a similar model for individuals with diabetes.
An important societal challenge will be determining how recommended foods can be incorporated into the diets of those facing poverty, who often cannot afford or access healthier food alternatives, she said.
Weems noted that MyPlate “strictly addresses nutrition, not other parts of healthy living such as exercise.”
Suzy Weems’ professional experiences span wellness, weight management, diabetes care, eating disorders and cardiovascular health. She is a certified specialist in sports dietetics. As a consulting dietitian, she has worked for hospitals and extended-care facilities across Texas and has extensive experience in diverse geographical, cultural, ethnic and socioeconomic venues. She is a past president of Texas Dietetic Association.
ABOUT BAYLORBaylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution, classified as such with “high research activity” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university provides a vibrant campus community for approximately 15,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest, continually operating university in Texas. Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 11 nationally recognized academic divisions.
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