Guide to the New Food Pyramid

The new USDA Food Pyramid Source: LoriKay Paden, Mettler Center, Champaign Why the change and what is different? It is to offer a more personalized approach to people this time around" the government has given good examples of diets ranging from low calorie diets for those who are sedentary to diets appropriate for an athlete. These can be accessed from mypyramid.gov and that by sticking to the allotment prescribed for your age, you will do one of two things: maintain your weight, or, if you are overweight, lose weight until you reach a healthy weight. So this pyramid is much more comprehensive. Symbol (pyramid) has been designed to be simple and remind people that physical activity and healthy eating go hand in hand Activity is now an actual component of the pyramid - daily reminder get moving Moderation - represented by the narrowing of each food group. The wider base stands for foods with little or no solid fats and sugars - choose more. Te top is the sugar and fat zone - the more active you are the more you can have Personalization - Person on steps and the website to help you personally tailor your diet. Proportionality - by the different widths of food groups - general guideline - the website can tailor your diet. Variety - The colorful bands representing the groups of the pyramid and oils - Illustrates that you need foods from all sources Gradual Improvement - Through the slogan - take small steps to improve lifestyle and diet each day (Steps to a Healthier You) Second Segment Grains 6 ounces Veggies 2.5 cups Fruits 1.5 cups Milks 3 cups Meat & beans - 5 ounces Be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days Know your limits of fats, sugar and sodium Oils - 5 tsp per day Solid fats and sugars - limit extras....195 calories per day Although the grain group is the largest, the combined column of fruits and vegetables is much larger, representing at least a third of a persons total intake. So all those people who only get veggies from french fries need to step it up and get some greens.