THE NEW PYRAMID

By Laura Woodhead
N.P.T.I., NCCPT CPT

So we have all heard of the Food Pyramid, you know the one the original guide to what and how much a person should eat according to the USDA's Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA's). Well lately there have been some new changes to the old "one sized fits all" model. It used to be that if every one stuck to the five major food groups and ate the correct amounts of each, then we wouldn't have to worry so much about gaining weight. However, as the years have gone by and the scale steadily climbs on our nation, a new version of the Pyramid lets you make one to fit your lifestyle. Because let's face it as we all know not everyone can or should follow the same old routine

If you visit www.mypyramid.gov you will find the updated version of the food pyramid and you can adjust it to fit you on a more personal basis. Now the pyramid has different colored bands coding the different food groups and servings and has an active stick figure person climbing up the pyramid to hopefully promote exercise. At the website it asks you to state your age, gender and activity level and comes up with an estimate of the number of servings of each food group to match your needs. The key is MODERATION. Essentially the food pyramid was always teaching moderation but this new guide makes it a lot easier for everyone to make sure their daily eating habits are in check.

But wait there's more! Also at this site you can use their various links to regulate making healthier food choices and adding activity into your daily schedule. The old food pyramid only suggested that diet was the key ingredient to a healthy lifestyle. Now the USDA recognizes the importance of an active lifestyle along with a healthy diet and places it along side of its new requirements. This "New Pyramid" is not just for those who want to lose weight it's also and just as importantly for everyone to learn how to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

I hope this information will help any and everyone looking to make a positive change to their current lifestyle. I suggest taking a look at the website mentioned above. But if you have any questions in regard to starting or improving a fitness and nutrition program, please do not hesitate to ask any of the qualified staff at Personal Fitness

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