Knowing how to eat healthy can sometimes be confusing but the US Department of Agriculture hopes that the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans makes it easier. The 2005 guidelines, which will be revised in 2010, are designed to provide nutrition advice that will promote health, decrease the risk of several diseases and help people achieve a healthier weight. The guidelines are the basis of the food pyramid called, "MyPyramid: Steps to a Healthier You."

MyPyramid is an interactive web site that

• Allows you to calculate your personal nutrition plan
• Provides the tools to make that plan work
• Outlines sample menus
• Helps vegetarians develop their plan
• Provides guidance for physical activity

MyPyramid includes recommendations for a variety of food groups, amounts and types of fat to consume and even a category for "discretionary calories". Access the pyramid at www.mypyramid.gov to learn what your healthy eating plan should look like.

Vegetarian eating plans may need to adjust slightly, but the importance of the nutrition of all groups still holds true. For more information on Vegetarianism, check out our section on Vegetarian/Vegan diets.

Click on any of the pyramid sections to find out more information.