In the 1950s, the U.S. Department of Agriculture developed the concept of four basic food groups to help people eat a healthy, balanced diet. In the 1960s, Dietary Guidelines for Americans were issued as a result of concern and Senate investigations on hunger and nutrition in the United States. The eight statements serve as guidelines in evaluating and improving eating habits. Finally, in 1992, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released the Food Guide Pyramid, featuring six food groups. By doing so, changes in consumers' eating habits could be reflected and the department could indicate healthy dietary recommendations.
Good nutrition is important throughout life, but nutritional needs change with each stage.
Since infants grow rapidly during their first year, nutritional requirements are at their peak. Infants' needs differ from those of adults in many ways. They require more fluids and protein and should not be placed on fat-restricted diets. After the first year, children's growth rate and appetite slow. Instead, growth occurs in small spurts, paralleled by increased appetites.