In 1994 the USDA center for nutritional Policy and Promotion was established in the United States. Its purpose was to "improve the nutrition and wellbeing of Americans." It strove to provide reliable resources and information for Americans in order to improve their ability to select and consume healthier foods. They provided resources such as the food guide pyramid then the mypyramid that had some additional information about specific portion sizes and added in an emphasis in physical activity(Choosemyplate). In most recent years the My Plate food guide showed proportion sizes simply and clearly emphasizing the most important part of a diet, half of your portions being fruits and vegetables and the other being mostly grains with protein (MyPlate).An interesting aspect of the revolution of dietary guidelines is how much they have changed over the years. During the early 1900s there was a huge focus on getting carbohydrates and protein. In the mid 1900s (the difference), the dietary guidelines changed again to having more fruits and vegetables, then additional changes were made to consuming less grains.
Nutrition guidelines are always changing to promote the healthiest way of living. Following updates and being on top of the current information is important for consumers. Choose My Plate.org is a great resources for information and additional understanding for individuals and families.
I remember when they changed from the black food pyramid to the colorful MyPyramid. I did not like it at all! The fourth-grade me thought it was way more confusing. MyPlate is easier to understand than either pyramid, though. It's good that children can look at it and understand good nutrition in a simplified way.
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