Food is typically categorized into five main food groups. These groups help to ensure a balanced diet:
- Fruits: This group includes fresh, frozen, dried, and canned fruits.
- Vegetables: A wide variety of vegetables, including leafy greens, root vegetables, and legumes.
- Grains: This includes whole grains (like brown rice and oats) and refined grains (like white bread and pasta).
- Protein: This group encompasses meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, and legumes (like beans and lentils).
- Dairy: Includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products. For those who are lactose intolerant or avoid dairy, fortified plant-based alternatives can be part of this group.
Some dietary guidelines also include a sixth category for fats and oils, emphasizing healthy fats, such as those from avocados, nuts, and olive oil. It's important to note that the exact number and categorization of food groups can vary somewhat depending on different dietary guidelines and nutrition education programs.