Choosing a diet plan is certainly not an easy task with so many choices out there. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has created an easy-to-follow diet called the MyPyramid Plan. This free online tool is based on the somewhat complicated and extensive Dietary Guidelines for Americans publication updated every five years. MyPyramid makes it easy to follow these comprehensive guidelines.
The Facts
The premise behind the MyPyramid Plan is eating a well-balanced diet consisting of nutritionally dense foods that are low in sugar, sodium and saturated fats. Your free personalized plan is based on your age, gender, height, weight and daily physical activity level. Based on those factors, MyPyramid quickly determines an easy meal plan as well as dieting tips and exercise recommendations.
History
The formation of the first USDA Food Pyramid dates back to the early 1990s, and its recommendations have changed slightly throughout the years. MyPyramid was unveiled in 2005 as an updated version of the USDA Food Pyramid, and its purpose was to make it quicker and easier for Americans to follow the USDA's Dietary Guidelines for Americans report released the same year.
Function
The way MyPyramid functions couldn't be easier. You simply enter the aforementioned factors into the online form at MyPyramid.gov, and you are then directed to a Web page that asks you if you would like a meal plan to lose weight or to maintain your current weight. Click on your preference, and you are directed to your personalized plan. The plan is color-coded to make it easier to follow. MyPyramid determines how many calories you should eat each day as well as the types and quantities of foods to focus on.
Food Groups
The food groups recommended by the USDA include grains, vegetables, fruits, milk and meat and beans. MyPyramid color codes each of these food groups to make it easier to follow your meal plan. Your MyPyramid Plan also tells you how much from each food group you need to eat each day. Free tips and food suggestions are available as well. For instance, MyPyramid suggests eating whole grains when eating from the grains food group.
Time Frame
If you're looking to lose weight, MyPyramid can configure your plan to accommodate this goal at a safe pace. The USDA recommends losing weight at a rate of 1 to 2 lbs. per week, which is considered safe weight loss. This is equivalent of cutting 3,500 to 7,000 calories from your diet through eating and exercise. At this pace, MyPyramid can help you to safely lose up to 52 lbs. within just six months.
Warning
Certain populations may require specific dietary needs, such as diabetics or pregnant women, and separate MyPyramid Plans are available for these groups. This is also true for kids and preschoolers. Your doctor can help point you in the right direction if you fall into a category beyond the general population, such as if you have food allergies, are vegetarian or have an existing condition that affects what you can eat.
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