On this pyramid, breads, pasta, grains, and potatoes are the largest food group to chose from. The USDA's pyramid emphasizes these as alternatives in the meat group. The pyramid than takes a drastic turn from USDA compliance by adding in olive oil as the next major food group. Yes - followed by cheese and yogurt, fish, poultry, eggs, sweets, and lastly red meat. As a monounsaturated fatty acid, olive oil does not have the same cholesterol-raising effect of saturated fats.
Olive oil is also a good source of antioxidants.
The American Heart Association cautiously acknowledges that the incidence of heart disease in Mediterranean countries are lower than in the United States - but also advises that other lifestyle factors may play a role. The Vitamin Shoppe is your discount source for products related to healthy living. Laura's Lean Beef Laura's sells lean, natural beef, raised without growth hormones or antibiotics. First red meat certified by the American Heart Association. Available in grocery stores.