The food guide pyramid was developed by the US government and used to resemble a triangle, with lists of the best foods. As the triangle moved toward the top, foods that were less healthy were listed, suggesting smaller recommended amounts. In 2005 however, the food guide pyramid underwent changes that reflect a more individualized approach toward nutrition.

When one visits www.mypyramid.gov, one will be asked a few questions before viewing the food guide pyramid. These questions include age and level of activity per week. Answering these questions can help calculate a model of the best types of foods depending on the answers.

The food guide pyramid no longer has little pictures of food listed in horizontal rows. Instead it has bars of color, which are shorter or wider depending upon one’s dietary needs. One gets specific information about what kind of foods should be eaten and appropriate quantities. Each bar of color represents a food group, but the actual written information is probably more helpful.

The food guide pyramid also offers a feature which allows one to check current weight as well as age and activity level. It gives specific recommendations on how much activity one should try for each day as well as total calorie intake, based on the best possible foods.

The changes in the food guide pyramid were prompted by the fact that individuals have different caloric needs. For example, a 25-year-old female who exercises 30-60 minutes a day is given a daily caloric intake of 2200 calories. She should aim for eating seven ounces (199 grams) of grains, three cups (710 milliliters) of vegetables, two cups (473 ml)of fruits, three cups (710 ml) of milk, and six ounces (170 g) of meat or beans.

The same aged female who exercises less than 30 minutes a day has results based on a 2000-calorie diet. The food guide pyramid recommends that this particular woman should eat six ounces (170 g) of grains, two and a half cups (591 ml) of vegetables, two cups (473 ml) of fruit, three cups (710 ml) of milk and five and a half ounces (156 g) of meat or beans.

The guidelines of the food guide pyramid may require adjustment if one needs to lose weight, or if one has allergies to certain foods. In these cases it may be best to consult a doctor about the best diet. For those without allergies, adhering to the food guide pyramid allows one to maintain weight. Naturally, increasing exercise in most cases, while eating a decreased amount from the food guide pyramid can help one lose weight.