DIETARY GUIDELINES
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans gives science-based advice on
food and physical activity choices for health.
The Dietary Guidelines describe a healthy diet as one that:
•Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free
or low-fat milk and milk products;
• Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts;
and
• Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium),
and added sugars.
The recommendations in the Dietary Guidelines and in MyPyramid.org
are for the general public over 2 years of age. MyPyramid is not a therapeutic
diet for any specific health condition. Individuals with a chronic health
condition should consult with a health care provider to determine what
dietary pattern is appropriate for them.
Construct your own food pyramid depending on your goals. This can be
your own guide to knowing exactly what is healthy eating for you and
your family. You will learn to:
• Make smart choices from every food group.
• Find your balance between food and physical activity.
• Get the most nutrition out of your calories.
• Stay within your daily calorie needs.
Get a quick estimate of what and how much you need to eat. Enter your
age, sex, height, weight, and level of physical activity to get a personal
eating plan. Exercise is an important element in being healthy. It does
not have to be strenuous, a light walk or even a
punching bag will do it.