Keep an eye on those 'other foods' you swallow; Nutrition Final Edition

• Published in: Spectator (Hamilton. 1994)
• Main Author: Senson, Christine
• Format: Newspaper Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hamilton, Ont Torstar Syndication Services, a Division of Toronto Star Newspapers Limited 20.06.2001
• ISSN: 1189-9417

One reason for not consuming the recommended number of servings from each food group is that Canadians are instead choosing too many foods from the "other foods" category of the food guide. These are foods that do not fit into the other four food groups. The main items that Canadians are getting their calories from are carbonated beverages, fruit drinks, chips, granola bars, ice cream bars, candies, pastries, cakes, pies, butter, margarine, and salad dressing. As you can see, it would not be hard to fill up on these foods, leaving out the nutrient-rich foods from the four main food groups. None of this is to say that the food guide is difficult to follow! The first thing to check is if your serving sizes match those given in the food guide. You may be underestimating the amount of food you are actually eating. Second, keep an eye on the number of foods you are eating that fit into the "other foods" group. By choosing foods that fit into the four food groups first, instead of "other foods," you will find it easier to follow the food guide.