Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Di·e·tar·y Guide·lines for A·mer·i·cans

(dī'ĕ-tār-ē gīd'līnz ă-mer'i-kănz) The recommendations of the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services for dietary intakes to reduce chronic diseases related to food intake (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, obesity).

Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Recommendations issued periodically and revised in 2000 from the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion at the U.S. Department of Agriculture for planning and eating a healthy diet. See: table; Food Guide Pyramid SOURCE: U.S. Department of Agriculture, www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/dga

AIM FOR FITNESS

Aim for a healthy weight.

Be physically active each day.

BUILD A HEALTHY BASE

Let the Food Guide Pyramid guide your food choices.

Choose a variety of grains daily, especially whole grains.

Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables daily.

Keep food safe to eat.

CHOOSE SENSIBLY

Choose a diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol and moderate in total fat.

Choose beverages and foods to moderate your intake of sugars.

Choose and prepare foods with less salt.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so in moderation.