Eating healthy means following a healthy eating pattern that includes a variety of nutritious foods and drinks. It also means getting the number of calories that’s right for you (not eating too much or too little).

Use your calories to eat a variety of healthy foods.

To eat healthy, be sure to choose:

• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Whole grains
• Fat-free or low-fat dairy products
• A variety of foods with protein, including seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and soy products

Limit certain nutrients and ingredients.

Sodium (salt)

Sodium is found in table salt – but most of the sodium we eat comes from packaged food or food that is prepared in restaurants.

Added sugars

Added sugars include syrups and sweeteners that manufacturers add to products like sodas, yogurt, and cereals ­– as well as things you add, like sugar in your coffee.

Saturated fats

Saturated fats come from animal products like cheese, fatty meats and poultry, whole milk, butter, and many sweets and snack foods. Some plant products like palm and coconut oils also have saturated fats.

Refined grains and starches

Refined grains and starches are in foods like cookies, white bread, and some snack foods.

Get a personalized Daily Food Plan to help you choose healthy foods.

Source: healthfinder.gov