Building a Balanced Plate

Imagine your plate is divided into four sections, with a glass on the side. A balanced plate has something from each of the five healthy food groups to give your body all the different things it needs to work its best!Fruits & Vegetables: Fill up HALF your plate with these! They are packed with vitamins and minerals to keep you from getting sick.Grains: This group gives you carbohydrates, which are your body's main fuel for running, jumping, and thinking. Think of it as energy food!Protein: This is the builder group! Protein builds and repairs your muscles, making you strong.Dairy: This group has calcium, which is super important for strong bones and teeth.Eating a mix of these foods gives you balanced energy and helps you feel great all day long.

It's a school day and you have a big math test this morning! You need brainpower and energy that lasts. Here’s a balanced breakfast to help:Grains: A bowl of oatmeal or a slice of whole-wheat toast. This gives you steady energy.Protein: A scrambled egg or some nut butter on your toast. This helps you feel full and focused.Fruit: Sliced bananas or berries in your oatmeal. A yummy way to get vitamins!Dairy: A glass of milk or a cup of yogurt. This adds protein and calcium for strong bones.This breakfast covers all the groups to start your day off right!

You've been learning and playing all morning, and your energy tank is getting low. Time to refuel with a balanced lunch!Grains: Two slices of whole-wheat bread for a sandwich.Protein: Sliced turkey, chicken, or hummus inside your sandwich.Vegetables: Crunchy lettuce and tomato in the sandwich, plus a side of baby carrots. Remember, half your plate!Fruit: A juicy apple or a handful of grapes for a sweet, healthy treat.Dairy: A cheese stick or a small yogurt cup on the side.This lunch will power you through the rest of your school day.