Summer has arrived!   Many people have begun their summer “diets” to eat healthier and/or lose weight.  Healthy meal plans start with a plentiful portions of produce.  There are so many choices:   fruits and veggies from your garden, local farmer’s markets & grocery stores.

Besides eating fruits and vegetables, how do you know your diet is balanced?
How do you decide which food plan will be “right” for you?

There are SO many “diet books” available today. As you evaluate a possible diet, ask yourself if the plan is REALISTIC and BALANCED.

Is the diet realistic?

Is it compatible with:

• Your lifestyle?
• Your food preferences?
• Your budget?

Do you have to eliminate foods?  The more foods you eliminate, the less likely you’ll be satisfied long term.  

Is the diet balanced?

 Use the Food Pyramid or My Plate to evaluate your  meal plan–Are the basic food groups  included?

• Milk
• Meat/Protein Alternates
• Fruit
• Vegetables
• Grains
• Fats

  “New” diets will undoubtedly appear on the bookshelves every year.  Check out your next meal plan to see if it is REALISTIC AND BALANCED.