Comparison of Old & New Food Pyramids
A balanced diet is a critical component of a healthy lifestyle. With this in mind, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has created food pyramids, an old version and a new version, to represent their recommendations for daily food intake.
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Release Dates
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The new food pyramid was released by the USDA in April of 2005. The old pyramid was introduced in 1992.
Pyramid Style
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The new pyramid is displayed vertically with the food groups presented in "colorful stripes" as opposed to the horizontal categories exhibited on the older version.
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Serving Size
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Guidelines on the new pyramid list the recommended serving sizes in specific measurements such as cups, teaspoons or ounces as opposed to the old pyramid whose serving sizes were "non-specific."
Exercise
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The new food pyramid image has added a picture of a staircase to the side of the pyramid "as a reminder" that exercise is a critical addition to a healthy diet.
Interactive Features
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The new pyramid is also equipped with interactive features. Those with web access can visit the USDA's online pyramid, where a web tool allows users to "personalize their approach" in "choosing a lifestyle that balances nutrition and exercise." Available at the website is a highly interactive pyramid where users can electronically record results of "food intake and physical activity" and analyze their daily, weekly or monthly history in comparison to the USDA recommended guidelines.
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