🥤 Hydration & Movement

Water, herbal teas, daily physical activity

🥬 Vegetables & Fruits

5-9 servings daily • Variety of colors • Fresh, frozen, or minimally processed

🌾 Whole Grains

3-6 servings daily • Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat

🥩 Protein Sources

2-3 servings daily • Lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts

🥛 Dairy & Alternatives

2-3 servings daily • Milk, yogurt, cheese, plant-based alternatives

🫒 Healthy Fats

Use sparingly • Olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds

🍰 Treats & Processed Foods

Limit • Sweets, refined sugars, highly processed foods

What's New in 2025?

🌱

Plant-Forward Approach

Emphasis on plant-based foods while including quality animal proteins

🧠

Mental Health Focus

Recognition of the gut-brain connection and mood-supporting foods

🌍

Sustainability

Environmental impact considerations in food choices

Meal Timing

Importance of regular meal patterns and mindful eating

Detailed Food Group Guidelines

🥬 Vegetables & Fruits (5-9 servings/day)

What counts as 1 serving:

  • 1 cup raw leafy vegetables
  • ½ cup cooked vegetables
  • 1 medium fruit
  • ¾ cup 100% fruit juice

2025 Recommendations:

  • Aim for 2-3 cups vegetables, 1.5-2 cups fruit daily
  • Choose a rainbow of colors
  • Prioritize whole fruits over juices
  • Include dark leafy greens daily

🌾 Whole Grains (3-6 servings/day)

What counts as 1 serving:

  • 1 slice whole grain bread
  • ½ cup cooked rice, pasta, or cereal
  • 1 oz dry cereal
  • ½ cup cooked oatmeal

2025 Recommendations:

  • Make at least half your grains whole grains
  • Choose minimally processed options
  • Include ancient grains like quinoa, farro
  • Limit refined grains and added sugars

🥩 Protein Sources (2-3 servings/day)

What counts as 1 serving:

  • 3 oz cooked lean meat, poultry, or fish
  • 1 egg or 2 egg whites
  • ½ cup cooked beans or lentils
  • 2 tbsp nuts or seeds

2025 Recommendations:

  • Include plant proteins regularly
  • Choose lean cuts of meat
  • Eat fish 2-3 times per week
  • Limit processed meats

🥛 Dairy & Alternatives (2-3 servings/day)

What counts as 1 serving:

  • 1 cup milk or yogurt
  • 1.5 oz natural cheese
  • 2 oz processed cheese
  • 1 cup fortified plant milk

2025 Recommendations:

  • Choose low-fat or fat-free options
  • Include probiotic-rich yogurt
  • Consider fortified plant alternatives
  • Limit added sugars in dairy products

Special Considerations for 2025

🧬 Personalized Nutrition

Consider individual needs based on genetics, health conditions, and lifestyle factors.

🦠 Gut Health

Include fermented foods, prebiotics, and diverse fiber sources for microbiome health.

🏃‍♀️ Active Lifestyle

Adjust portions and timing based on physical activity levels and fitness goals.

🌿 Food Quality

Prioritize whole, minimally processed foods over highly processed alternatives.

Sample Daily Meal Plan

🌅 Breakfast

  • 1 cup oatmeal with berries
  • 1 tbsp nuts or seeds
  • 1 cup low-fat milk
  • 1 piece of fruit

🥗 Lunch

  • Large mixed salad
  • 3 oz grilled chicken
  • ½ cup quinoa
  • 2 tbsp olive oil dressing

🍽️ Dinner

  • 4 oz baked salmon
  • 1 cup steamed vegetables
  • ½ cup brown rice
  • Small side salad

🥜 Snacks

  • Greek yogurt with fruit
  • Handful of nuts
  • Vegetable sticks with hummus
  • Herbal tea