Food pyramid is a nutrition guideline that illustrates the amount of servings that people should eat on each basic food group. This will help us to control the amount of calories, sugar, fat and cholesterol in our diet. USDA created this illustration for us to learn how to eat healthy.
At the top of the food pyramid, which should concede the smallest percentage of servings in every meal are the fats and sweets. These include oils, butter, sugars, candies, mayonnaise, and soda. We should limit ourselves eating these stuffs. Eating too many fats and sweets can cause obesity, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Moreover, excessive consumption of this food group is a risk factor for various types of cancer.
Dairy products and proteins are at the second level of the food pyramid. In this level, it suggests 2 to 3 servings each day. Dairy products include milk, eggs and cheese. These foods are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium. Proteins, on the other hand, can be found in meat, poultry, fish, legumes and nuts, which are also sources of iron and zinc.
Next level in the pyramid is the fruits which suggest 2 to 4 servings each day and vegetables 3 to 5 servings each day. Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Also, they are rich in fiber, which is important to maintain the gastrointestinal system.
Foods rich in carbohydrates constitute the last or the base level of the food pyramid. We need 6 to 11 servings of these foods each day as this is the body’s main fuel.
Servings depend on the daily calorie needs of each individual. It depends on his or her body size, age, gender and daily activities. Following the food pyramid ensures us that we are getting the necessary nutrition the body needs to keep it healthy and strong.
