|
 The
government has been searching for new guidelines and a fresh look
for the Food Guide Pyramid, one that will encourage Americans to
follow healthier eating habits. The current Food Guide Pyramid is
a familiar one to many people, however two-thirds of the U.S. population
continues to remain overweight or obese. In a poll, it was discovered
that 30 percent of Americans rated overeating as the number one
health problem in the nation. Despite these results only 12 percent
stated they were dieting.
Officials recommended creating a new symbol to take the place of
the 1992 Food Guide Pyramid. Officials added that the new proposition
would be more effective if it included an extended amount of information
on how people could to improve and incorporate healthy eating habits
into their lives. Newly revised guidelines should be released in
the early portion of 2005.
Flaws with Pyramid
Researchers agreed that the "One size fits all" guidelines
do not work for everybody. The example they cited for this was the
bread, cereal, rice and pasta portion of the pyramid that recommends
six to 11 servings a day. Unless someone referred to the guidelines
themselves they wouldn't know that six servings was the recommended
amount for physically inactive women and a few elderly adults. On
the other hand, 11 servings is the recommended amount for teenage
boys, several active men and some very active women.
Recommendations for New Pyramid
- Design a simpler looking graphic that would possibly direct
people to the Web site
- Incorporate new dietary recommendations such as eliminating
trans-fats and stressing the importance of exercise
- Design new food group illustrations
Seattle
Post-Intelligence July 13, 2004
| 