When kids are studying about foods at school, one of the first things that is taught to them is the food pyramid. When you look at the food pyramid diagram, you will realize that the diagram highlights foods that people should consume to keep in good health and reduce the chances of getting diseases. The diagram is not just for children; even adults can benefit if they understand the food pyramid diagram.

If look at the food pyramid diagram, you will see that there are 5 categories of food in the pyramid. These categories include grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy products and proteins. In some diagrams, the grains may be called carbohydrates. Basically, you have to look at the bottom category and then work your way upwards. The foods that have to be eaten is larger quantities are placed at the very bottom of the pyramid, while the ones that are required in smaller quantities are placed towards the top of the pyramid.

Grains are a source of carbohydrates, which are converted into energy. Hence, grains should be part of a normal diet. A person should be looking to consume whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, oatmeal, whole grain cereals and brown rice to get maximum amount of carbohydrates. The body does digest these grains as fast as processed grains, and hence, a person feels full for a longer time. This prevents unhealthy snacking and also onset of diabetes. When refined grains are eaten, the body metabolizes them too fast leading to sudden surge and subsequent drop in blood sugar. This can result in diabetes.

Then come vegetables and fruits. Eating them reduce the possibility of suffering from cardiovascular problems and also getting certain types of cancers. Vegetables and fruits help to decrease blood present and prevent onset of several health problems due to vitamins and minerals present in them. Furthermore, eating vegetables and fruits during each meal helps to reduce intake of calories and thereby preventing a person from gaining weight. A person should be looking to calorie-free vegetables, such as corn, spinach, asparagus, cucumber, and carrots.

Proteins come next. There are two sources of proteins, meat-based proteins and vegetable-based proteins. Often, it is recommended that people consume vegetable-based proteins instead of red meats. Such proteins are plentiful in navy beans, black beans and lentils. They are also good source of vitamins, minerals and fibers. Even nuts, such as pecan nuts, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts are excellent non-meat sources of proteins. People who want to consume meat-based proteins should be looking to consume eggs, poultry and fish. The latter is rich in Omega 3 essential fatty acids and reduces the risk of heart diseases. Poultry does not have high levels of saturated fats like red meat and hence are also considered to be healthy. While eggs do contain cholesterol, they do not contain trans fats. In fact, people suffering from heart ailments can consume egg whites while avoiding the yolks altogether.

If a person follows the food pyramid diagram, it will ensure that he/she consumes a variety of nutrient-rich foods. This can prevent the chances of getting Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer. Also, eating a wide variety of food averts boredom, which usually occurs when a person has to eat the same food day in and day out. As the pyramid points out which foods should be consumed in larger quantities and which in smaller quantities, it prevents a person from eating too much of any type of food. The foods that are meant to be eaten in larger quantities are considered healthy and therefore, it helps a person maintain his/her health and optimal body weight.

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