How many servings are right for me?
The Pyramid shows a range of servings for each major food group. The number
of servings that are right for you depends on how many calories you need,
which in turn depends on your age, sex, size, and how active you are. Almost
everyone should have at least the lowest number of servings in the ranges.
The calorie level suggestions are based on recommendations of the National
Academy of Sciences and on calorie intakes reported by people in national
food consumption surveys.
1,600 calories is about right for many sedentary women and some older
adults.
2,200 calories is about right for most children, teenage girls,
active women, and many sedentary men. Women who are pregnant or
breastfeeding may need somewhat more.
2,800 calories is about right for teenage boys, many active men, and
some very active women.