December 2, 2024 from Medscape
Dietary counseling is often a challenge in primary care, especially given time constraints and the variety of nutritional needs among patients. Fortunately, a straightforward approach called the plate planner can provide an easy, effective method for guiding patients toward healthier eating habits.
What Is the Plate Planner?
The plate planner simplifies nutrition by focusing on portioning food into quadrants on a standard 9-inch plate. According to Dr. Tamaan K. Osbourne-Roberts, a family and lifestyle medicine physician, this method works for nearly all patients. The key steps include:
- One-quarter of the plate for starches – preferably whole-fiber options like beans or sweet potatoes.
- One-quarter of the plate for protein – lean meats, fish, or plant-based proteins are recommended.
- Half of the plate for vegetables – raw or cooked, as long as they fill the space.
Important Considerations
While this method is simple, Dr. Osbourne-Roberts notes a few key points patients should remember:
- Corn is a grain, not a vegetable.
- Dishes with added animal products may shift food categories (e.g., broccoli is a vegetable, but broccoli with cheese sauce counts as protein).
- Salads depend on dressing choices – a salad with vinaigrette remains a vegetable, while one with ranch dressing is classified as a protein.
Why This Approach Works
Patients often struggle with complex diet plans, but the plate planner provides a visual, easy-to-follow guideline. As Dr. Osbourne-Roberts emphasizes, “Everyone’s busy, including us and our patients.” This method is a quick yet effective way to encourage balanced nutrition in everyday meals.
For medical providers, the plate planner is an excellent tool to incorporate into dietary counseling—helping patients make healthier choices without overwhelming them with restrictive diet rules.
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