"SO... what about these serving sizes???" Well, if you take a gander at the MyPlate section of choosemyplate.gov you will find different tabs on the SIX different food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, dairy, and oils. In each of these tabs, you can check out topics such as: what foods fall under each food group, what counts as a cup, health benefits and nutrients of each group, tips to help you eat these foods, and finally, how much is needed.
The amount needed varies based on age, sex, and amount of physical activity.
A child ages 4-8 *needs approximately 1 - 1.5 cups of fruit, 1.5 cups of vegetables, at least 2.5 ounces but typically 5 ounces of grains, 4 ounces of protein foods, 2.5 cups of dairy, and an allowance of 4 teaspoons of oils.
*If you would like to know the daily needs of individuals not in the 4-8 year age range, click the hyperlinks above for each food group*
So there you have it folks! The daily recommended servings to get your child optimal amounts of each food group for the best nutrition possible.
"So what do I do with this information?? I know how much to feed my child but what exactly do I feed them??" Well now calm down, because the USDA (and myself!) has thought of that too! The website has Sample Menus and Recipes, as well as Sample Meal and Snack Patterns. They even have Tips for Vegetarians and Tips for Eating Healthy When Eating Out! Boy, they've thought of everything! Well, even if they have, I've got some tips up my sleeve as well ;)
Be on the lookout for upcoming recipe posts and sample meal plans! For now, that's it.
- Miss. Wilson