The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released the new food pyramid to provide a visual depiction of the dietary guidelines that the government released back in January 2005. Even though the pyramid shape has been retained, there are many changes to the food pyramid. Vertical color bands have replaced the horizontal food grouping and a person climbing steps along the side of the pyramid has been added to emphasize the importance of combining exercise and diet. Furthermore, the new food pyramid is designed to meet individual needs and lifestyles, opposed to the previous one-size-fits-all food recommendations.

Additionally, a new consumer web site, mypyramid.gov, has been created to be an online resource for nutrition information. Web content includes examples of foods and recommended servings sizes for each food category – grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy, oils, and meat/beans. Overall, the goal of mypyramid.gov is to reinforce that government’s recommendations to exercise on a regular basis and eat whole grains, more dark greens and orange vegetables, low-fat/fat-free daily products, healthy oils, and low-fat or lean meats and poultry.
Check out the USDA web site at www.mypyramid.gov. You can enter your age, sex, and physical activity to view a personalized food pyramid. For more information, also visit www.usda.org.

Editor’s Note: Zoe’s Flax & Soy Bars and Cereals are whole grain based products that can help you meet the government’s recommendations for whole grain consumption.