1000 Calories Food Guide Pyramid

1000 Calories Food Guide Pyramid
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Most men and women need more than 1,000 calories to meet energy needs and ensure adequate nutrition. If you and your doctor determine that 1,000 calories is an appropriate target for you, spend those calories on high-quality food choices.

Identification

To eat a balanced 1,000-calorie diet, the United States Department of Agriculture recommends two servings each of fruits and vegetables, three servings of grains, 2 oz. meat or meat substitute, 2 cups milk products and 3 tsp. healthy fats. This meal plan allows for an additional 165 calories to be used at your discretion.

Features

You need essential nutrients that different varieties of vegetables provide. The USDA suggests that you incorporate 1 cup dark green vegetables, 1/2 cup each of orange vegetables and legumes and 1 1/2 cup starchy vegetables in your weekly menus, in addition to 3 1/2 cups of other vegetable varieties.

Considerations

A 1,000-calorie diet is not appropriate for everyone. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute notes that a 1,000 to 1,200-calorie eating plan is safe for most women dieters, while men need at least 1,200 to 1,600 calories.

References

Article reviewed by Adela McKay Last updated on: Nov 23, 2010

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