A varied diet is especially important for children, whose bodies and minds are growing from the time they are born. Following the new MyPyramid food guidelines along with regular daily exercise ensures children receive the necessary variety of vitamins and nutrients, according to the creator of MyPyramid, the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Grains
At least half of grains eaten should be whole because refined grains are more processed, according to MyPyramid.
Vegetables & Fruits
Five subgroups of vegetables are dark green, orange, dry beans and peas, starchy and other. Fruit servings include 100 percent fruit juice and can be fresh, canned, frozen or dried. Depending on a child's age, the pyramid suggests 1-2 cups of fruit and 1-3 cups of vegetables per day.
Meat & Beans
Meats, fish and beans are high in protein, B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, iron and vitamin E. Non-animal sources are nuts, nut butters, tofu and beans.
Oil
Healthy oils contain important fats called polyunsaturated or monounsaturated fats. These include oils from nuts, fish and vegetables and do not raise bad cholesterol, according to MyPyramid.
Discretionary Calories
The pyramid considers discretionary calories "extra" calories that children can choose to eat from any category after meeting all needs from other categories.
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