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pyramid are proteins such as beans, eggs, fish, and meat. Meat, poultry and fish supply protein, zinc and iron. Non-meat foods such as dried peas and beans also provide many of these nutrients. The Food Pyramid suggests 2 to 3 servings of cooked poultry, fish or meat. Each serving should be between 2 and 3 ounces. Pick lean meat, fish and dry beans and peas often because these are lowest in fat.
Continuing on we come to dairy products. Products made with milk provide protein, vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. The Food Pyramid suggests 2 to 3 servings each day. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, a teenager or a young adult age 24 or under, try to have 3 servings. Most others should have 2 servings every day. Go light on high-fat cheese and ice cream. Choose non-fat milk and yogurt and cheeses made from skim milk because they are lower in fat.
Lastly are sweets and fats. These make up Food Pyramids smallest part, so fats and sweets in top of Food Pyramid should comprise smallest percentage of your daily diet. The foods at top of food pyramid should be eaten moderately because they provide calories but not much in way of nutrition. These foods include salad dressings, oils, butter, cream, margarine, sugars, soft drinks, candies and sweet desserts.
Bon Appetit'
The author has studied food and the effects on the body and our life. She has taught students and clients how to have a healthy lifestyle without feeling deprived. The key is a balance.
Rose Marie Allesandro is founder of Food A-Z an excellent resource site dedicated to information on food
