The food pyramid is a diagram that explains how individuals can determine the quantity of each nutrient or class of food in their diet. It provides a pictorial explanation that can help attain variety in foods consumed and a balanced diet.
At the top of the pyramid is fats and oils; this means the smallest portion of our food should be fats and oils. Next we have carbohydrates, then proteins, vitamins and minerals and water. If you follow this diagram in planning your meals, you are sure going to be eating healthy.
In order of portion size beginning with the largest portions:
- Vegetables, salads and fruits
- Whole meal cereals, breads, potatoes, pasta and rice
- Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, milk, yoghurt and cheese
- Fats, spreads (e.g. butter) and oils
- Foods and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt
In summary, vegetables, fruits, cereals and carbohydrate foods should be the largest portions on our plates, while high sugar and fatty foods should be in very small quantity.
