Healthy Eating Guidelines and Nutrition Label Insights

Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Recommendations for smart eating and physical activity.

USDA

U.S. Department of Agriculture, publishes dietary guidelines.

HHS

Department of Health and Human Services, supports dietary guidelines.

Food Pyramid

Visual representation of food groups; use sparingly.

My Plate

Visual guide for balanced meal portions.

Portion Sizes

Amount of food served; be mindful when dining out.

Nutrition Facts Panel

Label detailing serving size, calories, and nutrients.

Serving Size

Standard amount for nutritional information calculations.

Calories

Energy measurement; adjust based on servings consumed.

Nutrients

Components of food; focus on beneficial and harmful types.

Food Additives

Substances added for safety, nutrition, or taste enhancement.

Aspartame

Sugar substitute; often found in low-calorie foods.

Olestra

Fat substitute; may cause digestive issues.

Nutritional Claims

Statements about food benefits; regulated definitions.

Gluten Free

Contains no gluten; safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Low Calorie

Contains 40 calories or less per serving.

Light/Lite

1/3 fewer calories or 50% less fat than original.

Fat Free

Contains less than 0.5 grams of fat.

0 Trans Fat

Contains less than 0.5 grams of trans fat.

Low Fat

Contains 3 grams or less of fat.

Cholesterol Free

Contains less than 2 mg cholesterol.

Low Sodium

Contains 140 mg or less of sodium.

High Fiber

Contains 5 grams or more of dietary fiber.

Healthier Meal Substitutes

Options to replace unhealthy food choices.