By Donna V. Scaglione
You know you should eat better. You’ve heard about the research showing that a healthier diet — one with more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and less animal protein — can help reduce your risk for cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other deadly illnesses.
But perhaps you just can’t get motivated to make big changes. Or you don’t want to give up the foods you love. You don’t have to. Here are seven ideas for easing you way toward a healthier — and still very tasty — eating plan.
1. Adopt the ‘New American Plate’
Forget the thinking that meals should be built around a meat dish. Today, health experts recommend that the dinner plate comprise two-thirds or more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, or beans, and one-third or less animal protein. The American Institute for Cancer Research calls it the New American Plate and points to research that shows that such a predominantly plant-based diet helps reduce risk of cancer and is an important tool for weight management. It’s also vital in the fight against cardiovascular disease.
