The Food Pyramid outlines 6 food groups and recommends eating more servings from the groups at the bottom and fewer from those at the top. Grains form the base and should provide at least half of daily calories. Fruits and vegetables are next and provide vitamins and fiber while being low in calories. Dairy, meat and alternatives make up the third level and supply protein and nutrients. Fats, oils and sweets sit at the top and should be consumed sparingly due to their high calorie, low nutrient content.

1. Food Pyramid

2. Food Pyramid

3. Food Pyramid The Food Pyramid is an easy way to create a healthy diet. It consists of 6 food groups and 4 levels. One should eat more servings per day from the lower levels, fewer from the higher ones.

4. Food Pyramid Grains form the lowest level and the foundation of the pyramid. Grains contain complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, iron, protein, magnesium and fiber. 6 to 11 servings each day (at least 50% of your total calories) from this group, which includes cereals, rice and pasta.

5. Food Pyramid Fruits and vegetables are the next level. These foods are naturally fat- and cholesterol-free, as well as low in sodium. They also contain a rich supply of vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium and fiber, which may reduce the risk of certain cancers. 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

6. Food Pyramid Dairy, meat and meat alternatives are on the pyramid's third level. Dairy products – such as cheese and milk – provide calcium, protein, vitamins B, D and A. The meat and meat alternatives – which include poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs and nuts – are rich sources of protein, phosphorus, vitamins B 6 and B 12 , zinc, magnesium, iron, niacin and thiamin. 2 to 3 servings from each of these groups daily.

7. Food Pyramid The top of the pyramid is for fats, oils and sweets. These foods are all high in calories, but low in nutritional value. Foods with high fat content include margarine, butter, salad dressing, mayonnaise, cream, cream cheese and sauces. Everything from cake, pie and doughnuts to soft drinks falls in the "sweets" category. Eat very sparingly from this group.

8. Fast Food

9. Why do we eat fast food? It tastes good It’s quick Convenience -especially when traveling Less time spent in kitchen Low cost

10. Why is fast food bad for us? Contains a lot of Calories Many fast foods are fried in fat - even if they are heated up in an oven. High in saturated fat Contains some trans fat High in cholesterol A lot of sodium Low nutritional value Likely you will overeat

11. What can we do? Eat out less Make foods at home Eat more organic foods Fruits and vegetables Eat a balanced diet Follow food pyramid Choose salads and grilled foods instead of fried foods, and avoid the high-fat, high-calorie toppings.

12. Trans fat Trans fat is the common name for a type of unsaturated fat Unlike other dietary fats, trans fats are neither required nor beneficial for health Eating trans fats increases the risk of coronary heart disease