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China Food Pyramid Guide

Traditional Chinese nutrition has been "lost in translation," according to Revolution Health. Americanized versions of Chinese diets are greasier and saltier than those made in China. The Chinese food pyramid guide seeks to restore healthy eating habits through harmony and balance.

  1. Fan and T'sai

    • The ancient Chinese principles of balance show as the meal is divided into half grain choices and half fruits, vegetables and proteins, reports Revolution Health. Chinavoc advises that Chinese cooks create a harmonious blend of textures, flavors and colors.

    Grains

    • The Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association (SEMDA) provides a Chinese food pyramid graphic similar to the familiar USDA pyramid. Grains include rice, noodles, oval grain, long grain and rice wheat buns.

    Fruits and Vegetables

    • Fruits and vegetables are an important aspect to the feng shui balance of the Chinese diet. Melons, apples, oranges and Asian pears make up the two to four daily fruit choices. Vegetables such as lima beans, string beans, broccoli, bok choy, soy bean sprouts, baby corn, coriander, cauliflower and bamboo shoots combine with meats for many traditional Chinese combination dishes. The pyramid recommends three to five vegetable servings.

    Milks and Meats

    • According to SEMDA, milk, cream, butter, and cheese are not a regular part of a Chinese diet. The majority of the two to three daily protein servings come from fish, pork, crab, clams, squid, bean curd, chicken, eel, beef and duck.

    Fats, Oils and Sweets

    • Eat sugar, vinegar, rice wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt and black pepper sparingly.

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