A New Food Pyramid for the New Millennium?
By JJ Virgin
I’m not a fan of the food pyramid. Sure, it’s an improvement over the “Basic Four,” but most people are still clueless about what they should be eating. (Don’t believe me? The USDA conducted a phone study in 1996 and 40% of Americans agreed with this statement: “There are so many recommendations about healthy ways to eat, it’s hard to know what to believe.”)
Don’t even get me started on carbs … Six to eleven servings of bread, cereal, rice, and pasta per day? Seriously?! Most Americans eat white bread and pasta, which is even worse.
Fellow author and nutritionist Jonny Bowden recently blogged about the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s recommendations on revising the 2005 “Dietary Guidelines.” As usual, I agree with Jonny’s take on the topic, particularly his comments on sugar and calories.
A new food pyramid could be a step in the right direction, but it sounds as if the committee is still not being strict enough on sugar consumption. Twenty-five percent or less of total calories from added sugar is simply too much! I encourage clients to cut out artificial sweeteners entirely, and that’s when they really start to see results.
My advice? Eat from the rainbow. Choose nonstarchy carbs in the brightest colors possible to maximize nutrients. Carrots, blackberries, red peppers, and spinach are all excellent choices. Mix those with healthful fats like guacamole or olive oil, and you’re on your way to a healthier, more active lifestyle.
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