AICR offers strategy for new dietary guidelines

If you’re having trouble keeping the new federal dietary guidelines straight, here’s a quick tip from the American Institute for Cancer Research.

Fill at least two-thirds of your plate with a variety of plant foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains or beans. The remaining one-third of your plate can hold animal protein.

For years – long before the new guidelines were announced – the approach has been referred to as the AICR’s “New American Plate” campaign.

“We’ve found that people tend to think about their diet in terms of meals, so that’s how we package our health message,” said Karen Collins, registered dietitian and nutrition advisor to the institute. “We tell them, ‘Start by taking a good look at your plate.’ “

And for those one-pot dishes, the principle is the same. Make your stews, casseroles, pilafs, frittatas or chilis with the same two-thirds/one-third proportions. Two-thirds veggies and grains; one-third, meat.

For recipe ideas and a free “New American Plate” brochure, visit www.aicr.org.

Knight Ridder Newspapers

Griddle substitute

If you need a large griddle to make pancakes or bacon for a crowd, substitute a heavy metal roasting pan. Place the pan over two burners on medium heat, moving the pan occasionally to evenly distribute the heat. – From the October issue of Real Simple magazine

Washington Post

New use for corks

To safely store small, sharp objects – such as paring knives – in a drawer, stick the tips into leftover wine corks. This protects hands and prevents the edges from getting dull. – From the February issue of Cook’s Illustrated magazine

Washington Post