Mi plato
Because of its status with the United States, Puerto Ricans can take advantage of the USDA's MyPlate guidelines as well as the new Affordable Health Care Act. MyPlate has its equivalent for Spanish speakers known as MiPlato. Puerto Ricans share mainland problems with rising hypertension, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and obesity being primary concerns. The success of MiPlato lies in the marriage of the traditional diet with healthier substitutions. This is true for Puerto Ricans in their homeland and in America.
In comparison to MiPlato recommendations the average Puerto Ricans diet contains too many grains that are not whole grain, incorporates high fat methods of cooking, protein sources which do not generally come from lean meats, and emphasize beverages such as beer, soda, rum, and fruit juices. However, the Puerto Rican diet has strong points due to the use of legumes, seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables.
In comparison to MiPlato recommendations the average Puerto Ricans diet contains too many grains that are not whole grain, incorporates high fat methods of cooking, protein sources which do not generally come from lean meats, and emphasize beverages such as beer, soda, rum, and fruit juices. However, the Puerto Rican diet has strong points due to the use of legumes, seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables.
let's move
Government and private sector initiative can be seen in Michelle Obama's program Let's Move which encourages families to pursue healthy and active lifestyles in order to combat childhood obesity. The partnership with Goya brands has resulted in tools and resources for families including brochure in both English and Spanish with healthy recipes, tips on how to create a well-balanced plate, and a coupon for low sodium beans.