But the ardent professors and dieticians we spoke to believe nutrition should be calibrated to take on the new health concerns that crop up with every decade of life. As we live longer and more data become available, we'll be able to plot our perfect diets well into our 90s. But first, start with your 20s. You can follow the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Guide Pyramid, with its fruits and vegetables, grains, meats and dairy products, but tailor it to fit a young, developing body. Bone health should be your No. 1 priority and calcium your best friend.
Calcium helps build and maintain bone to prevent osteoporosis later, for both men and women.
Ayoob says dairy products are the way to go, even though some people fear their fat and calories. You need three servings a day. Switch black coffee to a latte, or eat yogurt or cheese. And yes, start thinking about heart disease in your 20s. Chronic diseases are often diet-related, and they start building up early.