


Vegetables come in a wide variety of colors, flavors, and textures. Cup-equivalents and ounce-equivalents help you understand the different amounts of foods from each food group that you should eat.

For example, in the vegetables food group, 1 cup of raw spinach and 1/2 cup of cooked spinach both count as 1 cup-equivalent because they have the same nutritional value. This is because some foods are denser than others, and some have more air or contain more water. Cup- and ounce-equivalentsĭaily intake amounts listed in terms of cups or ounces may not actually translate to cups or ounces of the food you are eating. Keep in mind that the amount you should eat to maintain your weight depends on your age, sex, and level of physical activity. It is important to get the recommended amount of each food group without going over your daily recommended calories. We also provide suggestions for how to fit occasional treats into your healthy eating pattern. This article describes the main food groups and other important nutrients recommended for older adults in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (PDF, 30.6M). Understanding the different food groups - and how much of each should make up your diet - can help you form a healthy eating pattern over time. Making smart food choices is an important part of healthy aging. Read and share this infographic to learn about making healthier food choices as you age.
