The Food Guide Pyramid gives the food groups and the number of servings needed for each. Remember, food requirements depend upon the person’s age and energy needs.

The guide calls for most of the energy sources to come from carbohydrates - grains, fruits and vegetables. Fats, oils and sweets provide the least amount of nutrients but the largest amount of calories. They appear at the tip of the Pyramid and are to be used sparingly. By following the Food Guide Pyramid, the needs for all nutrients will be met. The following list is the plan for adults over the age of 25:

• 6 to 11 servings from the Bread, Cereal, Rice and Pasta Group
• 3 to 5 servings from the Vegetable Group
• 2 to 4 servings from the Fruit Group
• 2 to 3 servings from the Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese Group
• 2 to 3 servings from the Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry beans, Eggs and Nuts Group.

Note: For children, teenagers, pregnant women, nursing mothers and adults under 25, the Food Guide Pyramid recommends three servings from the Milk, Yogurt and Cheese Group. Below is a list of the amount of different foods that equal one serving.