What is a balanced meal?

A balanced meal is one that contains appropriate selections from the five major food groups according to ChooseMyPlate.gov. The five groups are fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and dairy.

A balanced diet includes three meals that together account for the recommended daily servings from each group every day. By ensuring that half the foods consumed in a day are fruits and vegetables and the other half are made up of grains and protein with a small amount of low-fat dairy, individuals can ensure a diet that is balanced and healthy under the U.S Department of Agriculture's guidelines for the American diet. Oils and fats are used sparingly under these guidelines.