The USDA Dietary Guidelines
What do they mean?
The dietary guidelines promoted by the USDA were developed to
help you make food choices that provide you with a balanced diet
for good health and disease prevention. In general, the guidelines
suggest that you:
- Eat a variety of foods to provide the recommended calorie
allowance for your build and lifestyle.
- Keep track of calories. The recommended range is from 1,600
to 2,800 calories a day. Sedentary adults should aim toward the
low end. Very active adults and fast-growing teens can afford
the high end. To lose weight, reduce portions, but don't go below
1,200 calories a day.
- Choose low-fat, high-fiber foods from the grain products,
vegetable and fruit groups most often. Use sweets, oils and other
fats sparingly.
- Exercise to help your body use the food you eat more efficiently.
Aim for 30 minutes of exercise a day.
For more information on the USDA's dietary guidelines, write:
Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion
United States Department of Agriculture
1120 20th Street, NW
Suite 200, North Lobby
Washington, DC 20036
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