The red section of the pyramid is for fruits. The recommendation for this food group for preschoolers is
1 1/2 cups per day. If daily fruit intake comes from juice, it should be 100 percent juice. Include many fruit colors including apples, bananas, berries, melons, grapes, and kiwi.
The orange section on the pyramid is designated for the grains food group. At least half of the 6 oz consumed on a daily basis should be whole grains. Grains include wheat, oats, rice and can be found in breads, cereals, crackers and pasta. Examples of 1 oz. can be one slice of bread, one cup of cold cereal or a half cup of cooked cereal, rice or pasta.
The vegetable food group for preschoolers is represented by green on the food pyramid. Eat 2 1/2 cups a day, focusing more on green and orange vegetables. Excellent sources of vitamins and minerals are broccoli, spinach, carrots and sweet potatoes; other vegetables include tomatoes, celery, peppers and corn.
The milk food group for preschoolers is designated by the blue section on the food pyramid. While adults are recommended to have three cups a day, children ages 2 to 8 are encouraged to consume two cups a day. Milk products can include cow and soy milk, yogurt and cheese. Be sure they are low-fat or fat free.
The meat-and-beans food group for preschoolers is represented by the purple section of the food pyramid. This group should be a variety of proteins with a focus on lean, white meats that are baked, grilled or broiled. Avoid fried foods and limit red meat. Beans, nuts and seeds are also good sources of protein. A small handful of nuts, an egg or a tablespoon of peanut butter can be equivalent to 1 oz.
The oils group is represented by the yellow stripe on the food pyramid. Oils are not really a food group. However, healthy oils from fish and nuts, plus corn, canola and soybean oils are recommended in moderation. Limit fats and sugars.