The Nutrition Pyramid

As we grow older so it is important that we provide our bodies with sufficient amounts of minerals, vitamins and nutrients. One of the best way of ensuring that this is done is by using the nutrition pyramid.

This is a food plan which provides you with a list of foods that are not only considered to be healthy, but will also provide your body with what it needs in order for it to function. Below we take a look at the levels that make up the pyramid and the foods which come into each of these.

Base of the Pyramid - This includes those foods which contain complex carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, cereal and grains. All of which provide the body with energy which it needs. Plus these are essential especially in those people who choose to go with a very low fat diet plan. It is recommended that on average a person should be aiming to have between 6 and 11 servings of the foods in this group and this part of the pyramid each day.

Level 1 - This part of the pyramid is made up of fruit and vegetables and a person should be aiming to have between 3 and 5 servings of these particular foods each day. These foods are particular good as they contain essential vitamins such as A, C and D all of which are vital for our bodies to remain in good condition. A serving of these can be made up either of 1/2 cup of raw or cooked vegetables or an apple, banana or orange.

Level 2 - This part of the pyramid is made up of the dairy and meat products as well as eggs, beans and fish that are essential to the well being of our bodies. On average you should be aiming to have between 2 and 3 servings of these a day. As well as these foods providing your body with vitamins, they also provide it with protein and minerals including calcium, which is vital to sustain the bones in our body. For the meat, fish, eggs and beans you should be aiming for a serving of around 2 ounces. Also only, choose meat, which is lean.

Level 3 - This is the upper part of the pyramid and is made up of the foods which one should only be eating infrequently. Included in this group of foods is oils and fats as well as those that have a high sugar content. Although you should cut back on these foods you do not need to eliminate them from your diet completely.

The main reason why you should not eliminate foods which have fat in them from your diet completely as they are essential at helping to protect your body's organs. Plus they also help your nails and skin to remain in good condition. If you do need to use oil when cooking then go for the likes of olive oil rather than margarine or butter.

By using the nutrition pyramid in your diet plan you will soon find that you feel a whole let better and your energy levels have begun to improve as well. So not only will you feel better but you will also start to look a whole lot better as well.

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