However, when wise choices are made, snacking can be part of a healthy diet. Figure snacks into your total day's allotment of calories and servings from the Food Pyramid . Choose a variety of snacks to get a full complement of nutrients. On commercially prepared snacks, read the nutrition facts panel, carefully noting calories, as well as fat , sugar, and salt content . Desserts Desserts provide a sweet conclusion to a meal, but often are high in sugar and fat.
Fruit is low in fat and contains healthful vitamins and minerals.
Look for low fat alternatives, such as angel food cake or non-fat frozen yogurt. Eat rich desserts only occasionally, and then eat a smaller portion. The Grain Group Baked Goods Baked goods are foods made from a grain-based dough, a leavening agent, and other ingredients and cooked in an oven. Baked goods include bread, bagels, focaccia, pita, cookies, cakes, sweet breads, and pies. The Upside Grains provide carbohydrates to help maintain energy level.