What do you think about Willett's Healthy Eating Pyramid ?

Many articles in popular press are criticizing the USDA Food Guide Pyramid and claiming that it has lead to obesity.  However, what the articles ignore is that most Americans do not follow the USDA food guide pyramid recommendations for healthy eating. Many are eating too many foods with added sugars and fats and not enough whole grains, fruits and vegetables which form the base of the pyramid. Also, many Americans are super-sizing their meals and are eating more than what counts as a serving according to the USDA pyramid. 

What are some of my concerns about Willett's Pyramid?

• Plant oils and whole grains are represented in equal amounts on the pyramid.  Plant oils are high in calories and should be used cautiously.  True, plant oils are heart healthy, but consuming too much could lead to excess weight.  
• Potatoes receive a bad wrap.  Potatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber if consumed with the skin.  Many people consume potatoes with loads of butter and fried, which isn't a good idea, but potatoes are a good choice when eaten in moderation and prepared in a low fat way.
• Willett's pyramid promotes the consumption of alcohol in moderation, and although alcohol has been associated with decreased heart disease, purple grape juice has a similar effect.  Also, if alcoholic drinks are added to diets that are overabundant in calories, weight gain will result.
• The admonishment of refined grains is of concern.  Although most grains consumed should be whole grains, enriched grains contribute to the folic acid content of the diet, a vitamin that has been beneficial in reducing neural tube defects.
• The de-emphasis of dairy products is also of concern.  There is pretty good evidence of the role of vitamin D and calcium in bone health.

Does the USDA Pyramid promote a healthy diet?

Absolutely, the Pyramid is not a rigid prescription but a general guide that lets you choose a healthful diet that's right for you.

The Pyramid calls for eating a variety of foods to get the nutrients you need and at the same time the right amount of calories to maintain healthy weight.

Actually, none of the food pyramids out there convey all consumers need to know about healthy food choices.  And, most can be used in conjunction with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans to help consumers choose healthy foods.

 Additional References: 

The USDA Food Guide Pyramid
Are All Food Pyramids Created Equal?
Better Health Newsletter
Actual Consumption

Ask A Question (This site is intended to answer questions for CNEP staff.)