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USDA Urges People To Make Better Food Choices

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- We are what we eat and, according to the USDA, many of us are pretty "salty" these days.

Jessica Kartalija reports dietary guidelines just released urge Americans to choose their food wisely.

Lakia Carter's cutting back.

"Right now, I am trying to watch my figure," Carter said.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is hoping more Americans do the same.  New guidelines urge us to reduce our sodium intake, avoid processed foods, trans and saturated fats and added sugar.

Asa House is a clinical dietitian at St. Joseph Medical Center.

"They tell you what to cut down on and what to increase is plant-based, the nuts, the seeds, fruits and veggies.  Low in calories," House said.

The USDA says we should enjoy our food, but eat less of it.  Compare apples and oranges.  Both are health foods, but also contain multiple servings.

"It's trying to keep meat down to palm-size and watching our portions, but still eating the things we like to eat," said Carla Cook, from Baldwin.

The USDA recommends filling half of your plate with fruit and vegetables.

"Increase your fiber and fruits and vegetables and you will feel full and you're not going to eat as much," House said.

The USDA also urges us to swap whole milk for skim and drink water or fruit juice low in sugar.

Finally, the group encourages people to eat at home instead of dining out.  That way, you have more control over what goes in your meal.

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