My Plate. No more Food Pyramid!

The New MyPlate replaces the food pyramid.

The USDA has updated the old food pyramid and it is now a plate shape. They are hoping this graph style will make it easier to read and make educated meal choices.

An important part to buying food on a budget is knowing what kind of food your body needs. You should make sure that you have vegetables, and protein, and all the major groups.


One nice thing about this website is that you can look up all the major food groups and see what your options are for foods in that category. For instance, you can buy black beans sometimes for a protein. Knowing your options and what is best for you can help you make wise choices while still bargain shopping for the most cost effective meals. (remember you can never go wrong with a simple side salad or vegetable with almost any meal).

Some of their advice is actually beneficial to both your health and your pocket book!

"	Balancing Calories
	●	Enjoy your food, but eat less. (cheaper!!)
	●	Avoid oversized portions. (redundant.. but yes cheaper!)
	Foods to Increase
	●	Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. (can be cheap but careful what you buy)
	●	Make at least half your grains whole grains.
	●	Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.  (Sometimes lower fat milk is cheaper anyways!)
	Foods to Reduce
	●	Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals ― and choose the foods with lower numbers.
	●	Drink water instead of sugary drinks.  (SO MUCH CHEAPER)   " - USDA

Eating on a budget doesn't always mean unhealthy. There are affordable, healthy ways to get the most grub for your bucks. Stay tuned for more tips.