"my pyramid" news and stories

We all know that the Food Pyramid under went a makeover a few years ago, both in cosmetics to make it easier to understand, as well as content for updates to health and nutrition needs. However, a specially targeted Food Pyramid for older adults hasn't gotten an update in 10 years -- until now.

The new pyramid takes into account two things. With the assumption that older people are less web-savvy, the new pyramid, made available online, has more graphics and is easier to understand. We will make no comment about the "dumbing down" of web tools for older people.

The slightly more useful change is in the content of the pyramid itself. Older adults need to get enough fiber, calcium and vitamins D and B-12 via nutrient-rich fare, like fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and high-fiber whole grains. The pyramid also emphasizes the importance of regular exercise and adequate fluid intake.

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This week marked the one year anniversary of the MyPyramid website, based on the USDA's "new" food pyramid. The site has been one of the most popular government website with 1.7 billion hits in its first year.

We're all now familiar with the pyramid itself, which has moved away from the idea that one nutrition standard plan fits everyone and to the notion that individuals require their own specialized dietary and healthy eating needs. The website is an interactive site that allows individuals to track and analyze their eating habits and physical activity, and offers guidance based on the President's Healthier US Initiative and current nutrition research.