Nutrition.

Essay by anpmartinezUniversity, Bachelor'sA+, September 2003

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A person can achieve a balanced diet by following the dietary guidelines provided in the food pyramid. The table guidelines listed below indicates the minimum number of servings from each food group for each day. The menu attached show examples of these recommendations. The pyramid is divided into 4 levels according to the needs of your body. The base of the pyramid contains foods including grains such as oats, rice and wheat, and the breads, cereals, noodles and pasta made from them. Try to choose 6-11 servings of these products each day to ensure a solid foundation for your diet. Foods from this group are high in complex carbohydrates, which are the main energy source for daily activities. The next level of nutrition in the food pyramid includes foods from the vegetable and fruit groups. These foods include all fresh, frozen, canned and dried fruits and vegetables and juice. These groups are loaded with vitamins and minerals, carbohydrates and fiber.

It is recommended that your diet consist of 3-5 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruit each day to ensure an ample supply of vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. The next level of nutrition in the food pyramid consists of 2 food groups; the dairy products, including milk, yogurt and cheese; and the meat products, including meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs and nuts. These groups are rich in proteins, calcium, zinc, iron, and vitamins, and are essential for healthy bones and muscles. Choose low fat dairy products and lean meat products to get the full advantage of these foods without excess fat calories. Your diet should include 2-3 low fat serving from the dairy group each day, as well as 2-3 servings from the meat group each day.

The top of the food pyramid includes nutrients that should be...