About About Ads Departments Party New Feedback Contact

Shop
Recipes
Bakery
Gift
Eating
Cooking
Resources
Value


What's in this guide for me?
This guide introduces you to The Food Guide Pyramid. The Pyramid illustrates the research-based food guidance system developed by USDA and supported by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It goes beyond the "basic four food groups" to help you put the Dietary Guidelines into action.

The Pyramid is based on USDA's research on what foods Americans eat, what nutrients are in these foods, and how to make the best food choices for you.

The Pyramid and this booklet will help you choose what and how much to eat from each food group to get the nutrients you need and not too many calories, or too much fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sugar, sodium, or alcohol.

The Pyramid focuses on fat because most American's diet are too high in fat.

Following the Pyramid will help you keep your intake of total fat and saturated fat low. A diet low in fat will reduce your chances of getting certain diseases and help you maintain a healthy weight.

This guide will also help you learn how to spot and control the sugars and salt in your diet, and make lower sugar and salt choices.
Pyramid