You have clicked on Group 1: Grains, which form the Pyramid Base
Grains can be the foundation of our diet. They are excellent sources of complex
carbohydrate, or starch, which provides us with fuel. About 60% (minimum)
of our calories should be provided by carbohydrates, including the complex carbohydrates found in whole grains. Processed grain products lose much of their nutritional value, and their starches are metabolized much the same way as concentrated sugars in the body.
Grains include bread, cereal, and pasta.
We should have 6 - 11 serving of grains daily.
In addition to carbohydrate, whole grains may also provide:
niacin
iron
thiamin
zinc
fiber
Enriched wheat products have added niacin, iron, thiamin and folic acid, but lack fiber and other nutrients.
Suggested Serving Sizes for Grains
1 slice bread
1 oz cold cereal
1/2-3/4 cup cooked cereal or pasta
6 crackers
This page most recently modified on 9/6/04.