The Food Pyramid

The food pyramid is a picture that helps you understand what to eat. It shows different food groups and how much you need from each one. Eating from all the groups gives your body the nutrients it needs.

The Food Groups

The food pyramid has several groups. Grains like bread and rice go at the base because you need the most of them. Fruits and vegetables are next. Protein like meat, beans, and nuts and dairy like milk and cheese are above that.

Fats, oils, and sweets are at the very top. You should eat only a small amount of these.

Using the Pyramid

Try to eat foods from every group each day. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables. Choose whole grains when you can. Pick lean proteins and low-fat dairy.

The food pyramid has been updated over the years. Today, many people use MyPlate instead, but the idea is the same: eat a variety of healthy foods.

Fun Facts

• The first food pyramid was created in Sweden in 1972.
• The USDA introduced the food pyramid in the United States in 1992.
• MyPlate replaced the food pyramid in 2011 as the official U.S. food guide.

Did You Know?

If you ate only one type of food, your body would not get all the nutrients it needs, which is why variety is so important!