The Nutrition Facts Label will help you select foods that meet your daily nutritional needs. Eating a wide variety of foods from the Food Guide Pyramid will help you get the vitamins and minerals you need. If you are lacking in any group, a daily multi-vitamin may be beneficial. To get adequate protein in your diet, make sure you eat 2-3 servings from the Meat, Poultry, Fish, Dry Beans, Eggs, and Nuts Group. Adequate protein is important because it prevents muscle tissue from breaking down and repairs all body tissues such as skin and teeth.
Carbohydrates prevent fatigue and dangerous fluid imbalances.
To make sure you get enough carbohydrates, eat 6-11 servings from the Bread, Cereal, Rice, and Pasta Group. A daily fiber intake of 20-30 grams. Adequate fiber helps with proper bowel function. It has also been determined that fiber intake decreases cholesterol and lowers the risk of heart disease. Limiting fat to these levels reduces the risk for heart disease.