04/03/2025
Building a Balanced Plate: A Complete Guide
A well-balanced plate is the key to maintaining a sustainable, healthy eating plan while reaching your weight loss or fitness goals. Understanding portion sizes and macro-nutrient distribution helps ensure you get the right nutrients without exceeding your daily calorie target. This guide breaks down a 1500-calorie-per-day meal plan, divided into 3 meals and 1-2 snacks, with portion sizes and macros.
Understanding a Balanced Meal
Each meal should include the three essential macronutrients:
Protein: Builds and repairs muscles, keeps you full longer.
Carbohydrates: Provide energy and fiber for digestion.
Fats: Support hormone function and satiety.
A good plate ratio consists of:
✅ 40% Protein
✅ 35% Carbohydrates
✅ 25% Fats
Daily Macro-nutrient Breakdown for 1500 Calories
Protein: ~150g (600 kcal)
Carbohydrates: ~130g (520 kcal)
Fats: ~42g (380 kcal)
Portion Sizes Per Meal
Each meal should be around 400 calories, and snacks should be 150–200 calories. Below is a guideline for portion sizes based on food groups:
Meal Example (400 Calories)
🥩 Lean Protein (100-120g cooked) – Chicken, lean beef, lean pork , eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese (~35g protein, 150 kcal)
🍚 Whole Food Carbs (50-60g cooked) – Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat wrap, sweet potato, Whole wheat or Sourdough bread(~35g carbs, 140 kcal)
Starchy Vegetables That Count as Your Carb Portion
Sweet potatoes
Butternut squash
Pumpkin
Corn
Peas
Parsnips
Beets
🥗 Non-Starchy Vegetables (150-200g raw) – Spinach, zucchini, peppers, mushrooms (~10g carbs, 40 kcal)
🥑 Healthy Fats (10-12g) – Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, nut butters (~10g fat, 90 kcal)
Snack Example (150-200 Calories)
🍓 Protein Shake (1 scoop whey + 200ml milk) – 25g protein, 150 kcal
🥜 Rice Cake + 10g Peanut Butter – 15g carbs, 5g fat, 7g protein, 180 kcal
What to Drink?
Hydration is essential for metabolism, digestion, and overall health. Recommended drinks:
✅ Mineral/Spring Water – Aim for at least 2-3 liters per day.
✅ Herbal Tea/ Ice Tea – Chamomile, green tea, or peppermint for digestion and relaxation.
✅ Black Coffee – Can support metabolism but limit added sugar and milk.
✅ Electrolytes (if needed) – Helpful after exercise or sweating.
Avoid sugary drinks like sodas, cappuccinos and fruit juices, as they add empty calories.
Final Thoughts
By understanding portion sizes and balancing macros, eating healthy becomes easier and more satisfying. Stick to whole foods, drink plenty of water, and keep meals nutrient-dense to achieve your health goals sustainably!
Helene Van Loggerenberg
Fitness by Helene.
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