FOOD PYRAMID

We are continually being bombarded with information about nutrition and health. We know that a poor diet is a risk factor for major chronic diseases such as: heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes and some forms of cancer. But in today’s society, we face dietary choices that we never dreamed of organic foods, dietary supplements, no-fat, low-fat, and artificial-fat alternatives, cholesterol free, and low-calorie products--thousands of choices to make daily. With all of these choices, most of us find it difficult to make wise decisions.

Healthy lifestyle choices include eating well and living actively. Eating well doesn’t mean giving up foods you love; it means choosing wisely from a variety of foods that you enjoy. It means choices that emphasize fruits and vegetables, whole grains, leaner meats, and lower fat dairy products.

Eating right does not need to be difficult. We at your SHS suggest using the food guide pyramid to help. From A to Z--apples to zucchini,--every food fits into the Food Guide Pyramid! The Pyramid is an outline of what to eat each day. It’s not a rigid prescription, but a general guide that lets you choose a healthful diet that’s right for you. The Pyramid encourages a personalized approach to healthy eating and physical activity. This is done through the use of the following things: activity, moderation, personalization, proportionality, variety, and gradual improvement.

One size doesn't fit all : USDA's new MyPyramid symbolizes a personalized approach to healthy eating and physical activity. The symbol has been designed to be simple. It has been developed to remind consumers to make healthy food choices and to be active every day. The different parts of the symbol are described below.

Activity : Activity is represented by the steps and the person climbing them, as a reminder of the importance of daily physical activity.

Moderation : Moderation is represented by the narrowing of each food group from bottom to top. The wider base stands for foods with little or no solid fats or added sugars. These should be selected more often. The narrower top area stands for foods containing more added sugars and solid fats. The more active you are, the more of these foods can fit into your diet.

Personalization : Personalization is shown by the person on the steps, the slogan, and the URL. Find the kinds of amounts of food to eat each day at MyPyramid.gov

Proportionality : Proportionality is shown by the different widths of the food group bands. The widths suggest how much food a person should choose from each group. The widths are just a general guide, not exact proportions. Check the Web site for how much is right for you.

Variety : Variety is symbolized by the 6 color bands representing the 5 food groups of the Pyramid and oils. This illustrates that foods from all groups are needed each day for good health.

Gradual Improvement : Gradual improvement is encouraged by the slogan. It suggests that individuals can benefit from taking small steps to improve their diet and lifestyle each day.

Eating smart isn't just for today! To keep fit, you need to make balanced food choices for a lifetime. Start building your personal Pyramid now. Go for long-term approaches, rather than short-term results. Make gradual and permanent changes in the way you eat, your activity level, and your lifestyle. It’s the only way to be healthy-for life. If you have further questions or would like your own one-on-one nutritional assessment call (661) 664-2394 to make an appointment today!