Nutrition

Major causes of death and disease are related to poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle. In order to address these issues, the US Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture released Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Dietary Guidelines for Americans

• Focus on Fruits. Eat a variety of fruits-whether fresh or frozen. For a 2,000-calorie diet you will need 2 cups of fruit each day.
  
  
• Vary Your Veggies. Eat more dark green veggies, orange veggies, beans, and peas. Americans should consume 2 ½ cups per day.
  
  
• Get your calcium-rich foods. Get 3 cups of low-fat or fat-free milk or milk products every day.
  
  
• Make half your grains whole. Eat at least 3 ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, or pasta every day.
  
  
• Go lean with protein. Choose lean meats and poultry. Bake it, broil it, or grill it.
  
  
• Limit fat, salt, and sugar intake. Read the Nutrition Facts label on foods.