What is a "Healthy Diet"?
The USDA Dietary Guidelines describe a healthy diet as one that

• Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products;
• Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts; and
• Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars

The US Department of Agriculture created MyPyramid to offer a personal eating plan with foods and amounts customized to the individual. The recommendations in the Dietary Guidelines and in MyPyramid are for the general public over 2 years of age. MyPyramid is not a therapeutic diet for any specific health condition. Individuals with a chronic health condition should consult with a health care provider to determine what dietary pattern is appropriate for them.

source: www.mypyramid.gov

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Suggested Nutrition Guideline resources:

MyPyramid Resources for kids: Includes posters, games, and family tips to get your kids interested in eating healthy.

Nutrition for the School Aged Child: Well-written dietary guidelines for school aged children. A quick read for parents.

Nutrition for Everyone: CDC’s Quick Tips: Healthy Children, Healthy Choices
Quick tips that you can use to serve your children nutritious foods.
 

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OTHER RESOURCES:

Children's Food Pyramid: One of many websites that offer an illustrated children’s food guide pyramid for 2 to 6- year-olds and corresponding serving sizes for different food groups.

Ethinic Food Pyramids: Cultural food pyramids created by members of the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association and dietetic students. Also includes great info on herbs and supplements.

Adjusting Recipes to Meet Dietary Guidelines: A publication from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institure of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

About.com: Links to great articles written by healthcare professionals on key topics such as “Fruit Juice – How much is too much?” and “Picky eaters.”

Food and Nutrition Fun for Children: a resource for parents, teachers, educators, and child care providers interested in materials that will create a food and nutrition awareness in children while teaching them the ABC’s of healthy eating. Resources contained in this publication have been reviewed by the staff at the Food and Nutrition Information Center.

Eat Smart. Play Hard
This site is specifically designed for parents and caregivers to provide information to help you eat better, be more physically active and be a role model for your kids.