The government recognizes the individuality of nutritional needs. They changed the structured food pyramid to one that is now called My Pyramid. MyPyramid.gov is the website that contains nutritional resources for each of us to build our own personalized food pyramid. The site allows you to design your own plan using steps to a healthier you criteria and guidance. Just like with any resource, you need to analyze the credibility and appropriateness of the information for you. One thing you need to be aware of is the influence behind this site. The web site contains valuable information and useful tools. However, don’t take everything on face value. The government, by necessity, is influenced by every industry that affects the food market. They even acknowledge this in the statements about one size doesn’t fit all and personalization and even gradual improvement.



Ruthann Russo, PhD, JD, MPH, RHIT, is a healthcare expert with more than 20 years of experience working in and advising healthcare organizations.



