nutrition: The Food Guide Pyramid

The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) illustrates a well-balanced diet with the Food Guide Pyramid (1992; see food pyramid), which emphasizes the need to eat less fat and proportionally more complex carbohydrates. At the base of the pyramid is the grains group, which should be eaten in the largest quantity (6–11 servings per day). Just above are the two groups fruits (2–4 servings) and vegetables (3–5 servings). Near the top are the meat products (2–3 servings) and dairy products (2–3 servings). At the apex are the fats, oils, and sweets, which are not considered a food group and should be consumed sparingly. See also food pyramid.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• Specialized Diets
• The Food Guide Pyramid
• Importance of Good Nutrition
• Vitamins, Minerals, and Water
• Fats
• Carbohydrates
• Proteins
• Human Nutrition
• Bibliography

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