Rebuilding the Pyramid - new 'Food Guide Pyramid' the protein value of foods such as soy, peanut butter, and beans - Brief Article

Picky eating habits are pretty much an accepted childhood rite of passage. To help parents get their kids off to a good nutritional start, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently unveiled a new Food Guide Pyramid aimed at children between the ages of 2 and 6. While the five basic food groups haven't changed, a few of the additions highlight a shift in the USDA's attitude toward healthy food and good nutrition. For example, the agency modified the "meat" category to include protein-rich peanut butter, beans and soy as alternatives to beef, chicken and fish. It now recognizes that the bonebuilding benefits of dairy can be attained from soy milk and other soy products. The guide also recommends specific daily serving amounts and emphasizes the importance of physical activity in a healthy life. "The new children's Food Guide Pyramid is a terrific tool to teach kids how to choose good, nutritious foods for a healthy, active lifestyle," said Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman at the unveiling last spring. "The key message is variety. Healthful diets depend on choosing a wide variety of foods."

For a free copy of the pyramid and recipes, call the USDA at (800) 687-2258.