According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food Guide Pyramid was designed to assist people make healthy eating choices. The current one contains healthy information for everyone aged 2 and over. By using the Food Guide Pyramid, a person is able to learn what makes up a serving of food within the various food groups and what choices are appropriate for a healthy diet. There are many benefits to using the Food Guide Pyramid as a resource for healthy eating.
Encourages Variety
The Food Guide Pyramid is broken into several categories that define the various food groups that a person should eat from each day. According to Kids Health, eating a variety of foods ensures adequate nutrient intake and prevents boredom from eating the same foods all the time. The Food Guide Pyramid emphasizes eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean meats.
Limits Fat Intake
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food Guide Pyramid promotes limiting the amount of fat that is consumed to prevent disease and obesity. The top part of the pyramid contains fats and sweets and helps guide a person to reduce the amount of trans fats, saturated fat, cholesterol, salt and sugar that is eaten each day. This also effectively maintains a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Promotes Moderation
The largest part of the Food Guide Pyramid contains the foods that should be eaten in the most quantity. Kids Health reports that more moderation should be practiced as a person moves up the pyramid toward the top. This means that foods within the larger portions of the Food Guide Pyramid are important for good health, while those at the top should be eaten sparingly. This allows the body to get the most nutrients while consuming the daily recommended amount of calories to control weight and maintain health.
Incorporates Exercise
A healthy dose of physical activity is important for health and the Food Guide Pyramid encourages people to add exercise to their healthy eating routine. According to Kids Health, daily exercise helps prevent heart disease, diabetes and depression. It also helps keep a person at a healthy weight. There is a person climbing the side of the Food Guide Pyramid as a reminder to those who use it to balance a healthy diet with plenty of exercise each day.
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