Your Food Map

Some people think it’s possible to have your fortune told based on the lines on your hand. While palm reading hasn’t been proven scientifically, your doctor could likely tell you a lot about your future health based on the foods you eat.

Your eating habits are like a map to your future health. If your diet does not include a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy and a source of protein then you may want to improve your eating habits to switch paths to improved health. Identify the strengths and weaknesses in your current diet. Do you:

  • eat at least 4-5 cups (servings) of fruit and vegetables daily?
  • eat whole grain, high-fiber foods daily?
  • bake, grill or broil meat instead of frying it?
  • eat fish once a week?
  • get enough calcium through 3 servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy a day?
  • choose lean meats?
  • cut back on extra fat like butter, sour cream and salad dressings?
  • stick to unsaturated fats and oils?
  • stay hydrated by drinking low-calorie beverages such as water or tea?
  • eat 5 servings a week of nuts, seeds, beans and legumes?

If you answered no to any of the above questions, then you already know it can be hard to change your eating habits. It helps by focusing on small changes. Keep track of your food intake to help you assess what you need to eat more or less of.