Eat Variety of Food

The US Department of Agriculture recommends people eat a variety of foods from each food group, yet it also reports that Americans, on average, consume more fats and oils, added sugar and sweeteners, proteins, and grains than recommended, and fewer fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. This affects the planet because overconsumption of foods like these, which require lots of energy and water to grow, put a heavy burden on our natural resources. So get more diversity on your plate! It’ll be good for the planet—and for you.

• Check out the USDA's nutritional guidelines at ChooseMyPlate.gov.

• Keep a food journal, or look back at your grocery receipts, and take a moment to consider how you can diversify your diet.