How to Make Healthier Food Choices
Nutrition: How to Make Healthier Food Choices Why is healthy eating important? When combined with exercise, a healthy diet can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol level and improve the way your body functions on a daily basis. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Guide Pyramid divides food into 6 basic food groups, consisting of 1) grains, 2) fruits, 3) vegetables, 4) meats and beans, 5) dairy and 6) fats. The USDA recommends an adult daily diet include the following: 3 ounces of whole grains, and 6 ounces of grains total 2 cups of fruit 2 1/2 cups of vegetables 3 cups fat-free or low-fat dairy The following are some ways to make healthier food choices and to get the recommended amounts of whole grains, fruits and vegetables and dairy. Grains Whole-grain breads are low in fat; they're also high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, which helps you feel fuller longer and prevents overeating. Choose breads whose first ingredient says “whole” in front of the...