The Dietary Guidelines apply to food intake over several days and not to single meals or foods. No single food can supply all the nutrients in needed amounts. Since foods within each group vary somewhat in nutrient content, it is best to vary one's choices within each group. Vitamin or mineral supplements at or below the RDA are safe but rarely needed by people who eat an appropriate variety of foods. Supplements may be appropriate for certain people, but they are not a substitute for proper food choices.
Obesity is associated with many serious illnesses.
Being too thin is linked to osteoporosis in women. Choose a diet with plenty of grain products, vegetables, and fruits. Most of the calories in the diet should come from these foods, which also are low in fat and provide fiber. The daily average for adults should include at least six servings of grain products, three servings of vegetables, and two servings of fruit. Because foods differ in the kinds of fiber they contain, it is best to include a variety of fiber-rich foods.