The food pyramid can help you make wise food choices. It divides foods into groups, based on what they contain. Eat more from the groups at the bottom of the pyramid, and less from the groups at the top. Foods from the starches, fruits, vegetables, and milk groups are highest in carbohydrate. They affect your blood glucose levels the most.

How much should I eat each day?

Have about 1,200 to 1,600 calories a day if you are a

* small woman who exercises
* small or medium-sized woman who wants to lose weight
* medium-sized woman who does not exercise much

Have about 1,600 to 2,000 calories a day if you are a

* large woman who wants to lose weight
* small man at a healthy weight
* medium-sized man who does not exercise much
* medium-sized or large man who wants to lose weight

Have about 2,000 to 2,400 calories a day if you are a

* medium-sized or large man who exercises a lot or has a physically active job
* large man at a healthy weight
* medium-sized or large woman who exercises a lot or has a physically active job