Importance Of The Food Guide Pyramid

Submitted By cjewett
Words: 659
Pages: 3

Some scientists say to eat a certain amount and type of food each day to maintain a balance of physical needs in one’s body. It is also noted now that exercise is mandatory for a healthy life style. In 1992 the US Department of Agriculture released the Food Guide Pyramid to help Americans maintain good health and decrease the risk of chronic disease. (USDA and HHS Unveil Revised Dietary Guidelines For Americans, 2010) Once the pyramid was in use it was discovered that it needed to be revised due to being based on “an out of date science and possibly put together by people influenced by business”. (Health Eating Pyramid - What should you eat? , 2010) In 1995 the first revision was completed. Then in 2005 an additional revision was created. The pyramid guidelines are now not as “cut and dry” as originally advertised. A serving size and how many servings needed is now based on age, size, daily exercise. The nutrients in each individual group that play a role with regard to one’s health are: Grains: whole grains are rich in dietary fiber-reduce constipation and maintain proper bowel function, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, (all B vitamins) help with keeping the nervous system healthy and play their part in metabolism by assisting the body with releasing energy from protein, fat and carbohydrates, Iron, magnesium, and selenium. Folate (folic acid) is recommended for women who may become pregnant or are in their 1st trimester to lower the chance of neural tube defects for the unborn child. Iron is used to carry O2 in the blood. Magnesium and selenium releases energy from muscles, building bones, protecting cells from oxidation (a chemical reaction that changes the structure of the cell), and a healthy immune system. (Inside the Pyramid, 2009)Fruits and vegetables: the fiber in fruits and vegetables can provide a full feeling with fewer calories; reduce risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, developing kidney stones, decrease bone loss. Both fruits and vegetables are a great source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, vegetables also are a source for vitamin E, and vitamin C. Potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure, fiber reduces cholesterol levels, lowers risk of heart disease, and maintains proper bowel function. Folic acid is also found in fruits and vegetables, vegetables contain vitamin A which keeps eyes and skin healthy, vitamin C helps in healing and teeth and gums healthy, as well as helping with iron absorption. Vitamin E helps protect vitamin A. (Inside the Pyramid, 2009)Dairy intake is important for bone health during childhood when bone mass is being built. Calcium is used to build bones and teeth, vitamin D maintains good levels of calcium and phosphorous, and