The food pyramid is the ’guide’ that we all think of when it comes to knowing what to eat and how much to eat. This visual representation of the ‘importance’ of different food categories gives people the basic knowledge required to make smart and healthy meal choices in their daily lives.
By seeing a visual representation of the different categories of foods, appropriate quantities, and frequency of consumption, individuals can make smart decisions when it comes to choosing what to eat. But, how did this helpful guide come to be? Is it useful in today’s world? Find out more here.
The Beginning of the Food Pyramid
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The food pyramid was developed in Sweden in the 1970s. However, even before Sweden had created the food pyramid as we know it today, the USDA released a basic food guide for the general population during World War II. It broke food down into various ‘groups’ and showed the appropriate quantities for each. Then, in the 1970s, Sweden introduced the food pyramid and the dietary circle representing the food groups.
The USDA later adopted the same European food pyramid and changed it to ‘MyPyramid’ in 2005. The new graphic featured colorful levels of the different food groups with changing widths, that showed the appropriate portion sizes and infographics of people exercising along the side of the pyramid to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
However, the traditional pyramid-like shape has now changed to represent a typical food plate. The USDA subsequently changed the name ‘MyPyramid’ to ‘MyPlate’ in 2011. The main focus of the MyPlate introduction was the visual representation of the portion size in relation to a traditional plate, making it easy for viewers to visualize dietary needs.
Worldwide Variations
Many countries in the world have developed a similar food pyramid and adopted the same mentality behind eating choices. Different continents and countries have variations of a similar food pyramid, sometimes choosing alternate shapes or showing photos of their local cultural cuisine at different levels. For example, Australia uses a larger food pyramid that places vegetables, grains, and fruits all together on the bottom base of the pyramid, constituting almost 3 ⁄ 4 of what an adult should eat per day.
The third level featured alternatives to dairy, dairy, meat, eggs, nuts, seeds, and fish. The top level featured healthy fats. The Australian version also recommends using herbs and spices. Another variation is the Mediterranean diet, which often replaces dairy with yogurt, and replaces cow products with goat byproducts. In Asian culture, you may see that carbohydrates, like millet, corn, and noodles, are on the bottom tier of the pyramid, with vegetable oils also having a much more prevalent section than in other cuisines.
Lastly, in India, the food pyramid contains only four levels. A unique feature of this food pyramid is that grains, milk, and cereals can all be eaten frequently and often, such as every day or for every meal. No matter what shape or specific food items are pictured in the representation, the food pyramid is designed to help the general population make smart decisions when it comes to their food choices.
Is The Food Pyramid Appropriate for Healthy Eating?
Now that you know the basics of the food pyramid, it begs to question — is it helpful and should it still be used? In short, they can be useful — but it leads to an oversimplification of a complex scientific fact. Eating healthy is not just about food ‘groups’ and portion sizes, but also relates to macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and other factors.
For example, many people may not be able to choose the correct type of carbohydrates to have and when to have them during the day. For fast-acting carbs, they should choose white potatoes. But for complex carbohydrates that are an overall ‘healthier’ option, sweet potatoes or brown rice are better. However, the food pyramid, or MyPlate, does not distinguish between ‘unhealthy’ and ‘healthy’ carbs.
This article is simply intended to provide information. It is not intended to replace the advice from a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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