There is an overwhelming variety of natural and highly processed foods on the market. The USDA created the Food Pyramid to help people make healthy food choices. This is a pyramid-shaped, labeled diagram that shows the groups of essential food types and how much of each of these foods a normal person needs.
At the bottom of the food pyramid are foods that serve as ready-made sources of energy. These are high in starch and low in fat and include grains, pasta, bread, and various grains. According to the Food Pyramid, the average adult needs 6–11 servings of these products daily. Whole grain products are the healthiest foods in this group. His serving of these foods can include a slice of bread, a cup of granola, a flat tortilla, and an ounce of rice or pasta.
As the shape of the food pyramid suggests, vegetables and fruits are required in less quantity than carbohydrates. Adults typically need 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruit each day. The high fiber content of vegetables and fruits makes them ideal foods as the fiber keeps bowel movements normal. In addition, they are rich in vitamins (necessary for immunity and overall health) and minerals, which ensure the proper functioning of various body organs. Make sure to choose fresh fruit every day.
The next top room in the food pyramid is occupied by protein and dairy products. You need 2 to 3 servings of these foods daily. Protein comes from lean meats, eggs, fish, beans, and nuts. It is recommended to remove the visible fat from the meat for a low-fat product. Be aware that nuts also contain fat. Among dairy products, milk is the most complete food, containing most of the necessary vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Cheese and yogurt are also recommended dairy products. Try to avoid large amounts of ice cream and high-fat cheese.
Finally, at the top of the food pyramid are fats, including oils, and sweets. Recommended amounts for these items are for spare use only. Butter, cream, oil, candy, and margarine are all indigestible foods and should be consumed in small amounts. But just as every other part of the food pyramid is just as important, it's an important part of our diet.
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