The nutrition pyramid provides you with a list of all the foods which are considered to be healthy and which will provide you with optimum levels of everything your body needs to remain fit and healthy. Below we take a look at the 4 levels, which make up the pyramid and the kinds of foods, which you should be eating when using it.



Base of the Pyramid - This includes those foods which contain complex carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, cereal and grains. All of which provide the body with energy which it needs. Plus these are essential especially in those people who choose to go with a very low fat diet plan. It is recommended that on average a person should be aiming to have between 6 and 11 servings of the foods in this group and this part of the pyramid each day.

Level 1 - This is where the fruit and vegetables are situated within the pyramid. On average, you will need to be trying to eat between 3 and 5 servings of these each day. Not only are these foods rich in nutrients but they are an excellent source of Vitamins which are vital to our body being able to function correctly. A cup of cooked or raw vegetables or one apple or banana constitutes a serving.

Level 2 - This part of the pyramid is made up of the dairy and meat products as well as eggs, beans and fish that are essential to the well being of our bodies. On average you should be aiming to have between 2 and 3 servings of these a day. As well as these foods providing your body with vitamins, they also provide it with protein and minerals including calcium, which is vital to sustain the bones in our body. For the meat, fish, eggs and beans you should be aiming for a serving of around 2 ounces. Also only, choose meat, which is lean.

Level 3 - This part of the pyramid is made up of those foods which you not include within your diet very often. The main foods included within this group are fats, oils and those which are sweet. The only thing you are likely to be get from these is additional calories which your body will then have to burn off. When cooking try to avoid using any kind of fat including margarine or butter and cut back on the number of sodas that you drink. However, you don't need to cut out these foods completely.

The main reason why you should not eliminate foods which have fat in them from your diet completely as they are essential at helping to protect your body's organs. Plus they also help your nails and skin to remain in good condition. If you do need to use oil when cooking then go for the likes of olive oil rather than margarine or butter.

By using the nutrition pyramid in your diet plan you will soon find that you feel a whole let better and your energy levels have begun to improve as well. So not only will you feel better but you will also start to look a whole lot better as well.