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home > Articles > The New Food Pyramid

The New Food Pyramid

The U.S. government has long offered a food pyramid that shows the correct portions for a healthy diet. However, recent research has changed the way that we look at appropriate eating. The food pyramid has changed from a stepwise, horizontal chart to a triangle showing vertical lines of proportion. Understanding what foods you should consume each day is an important step in living a healthy lifestyle.

Now, the new food pyramid is more specific about what foods you should consume. While grains are still important, the government recommends that half of your 6 ounces of daily grains should be in the form of whole grains. This generally includes whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal, and barley, among others.

Getting the Full Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables

Next, the USDA advises that you have 2.5 cups of vegetables each day, with a focus on green and orange veggies. However, the government also says that it is a good idea to vary your vegetables so that you benefit from the different nutrients contained in the different colors of veggies.

The USDA encourages you to consume 2 cups of fruit per day, yet avoid most fruit juices due to the high sugar content. Also, you should consume 3 cups of milk products each day in order to get a healthy amount of calcium. However, this should be low- or non-fat milk products. If you are lactose intolerant, consider taking calcium supplements.

Lastly, the new food pyramid puts meat and beans together, with a recommendation of 5.5 ounces per day. It recommends lean meats such as poultry and seafood, as well as other protein sources such as beans and nuts. Unlike the previous food pyramid, this does not allot any space for fats and oils.

Contact Us

The new food pyramid is not a one-size-fits-all diet plan. Some people need to focus more on different food groups to reach their lifestyle and health goals. If you or someone you know needs help getting their diet back on the right track, contact a Chicago nutritionist from B4 Health & Fitness today by calling 773-251-4619.