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How much to eat? Four pizzas, two burgers, three candy
bars
. Get right on track with the rights servings from
the five food groups.
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Fruit - 2-4 servings
Fruits are lusty sources of vitamins, the star of which - is vitamin
C. They are low in fat and calories. Try and select fresh fruits and
fruit juices, or frozen, canned, or dried fruits. Avoid fruit processed
with heavy syrups and sugar-sweetened juices.
1 serving = 1 medium apple, banana, or orange; 1 melon wedge; 1/2
cup of chopped fruit or berries; 3/4 cup fruit juice.
Bread, Cereal, Rice, and Pasta: 6-11 Servings
These foods are efficient providers in complex carbohydrates and
important sources of energy. They provide B vitamins, minerals,
and fiber. Contrary to common thought, starchy foods are not fattening
- as long as you don't add butter, cheese, or cream sauces. To gain
maximum nutrient benefits select whole-grain products.
1 serving = 1 slice of bread; 1 ounce of ready-to-eat cereal; 1/2
cup cooked cereal, rice or pasta.
Vegetables: 3-5 Servings
The wunderkind in vitamin delivery
vegetables provide vitamins
(especially A and C), are excellent sources of fiber, and are naturally
low in fat. For maximum nutrients, select dark leafy greens, deep-yellow
or orange vegetables, and starchy vegetables like potatoes and yams.
1 serving = 1 cup raw leafy greens; 1/2 cup other vegetables chopped;
3/4 cup vegetable juice.
Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs, and Nuts:
2-3 Servings
Protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, as are beans, nuts, and seeds
they provide it. Tofu (made from soybeans) and white beans also
supply calcium. Some seeds, like almonds, are good sources of vitamin
E.
1 serving = 2-3 ounces of cooked lean meat, poultry, or fish; 1
egg; 1/2 cup cooked beans; 2 tablespoons seeds and nuts.
Milk, Yogurt, and Cheese: 2-4 Servings
Calcium maximum! Milk products are the richest sources of calcium.
These products also provide protein and vitamin B12. Choose low-fat
varieties to minimise calories, cholesterol, and saturated fat.
1 serving = 1 cup of milk or yogurt, 1-1/2 ounces of cheese.
Fats, Oils, and Sweets: Use Sparingly
High on the calories, low on nutrition. Exceptions are vegetable
oil, which is a rich source of vitamin E (1 tablespoon is all you
need), and molasses, an excellent source of iron.
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