Alcohol and exercise

Alcohol

Alcohol fits in the top of the current pyramid. But many studies have shown moderate drinkers (one to two drinks per day) have healthier hearts and live longer than heavy drinkers or teetotallers. These findings were initially linked to red wine, but the effect seems to hold for all alcoholic drinks.

The Harvard researchers have reflected this by including alcohol "in moderation" further down their pyramid. They note the exceptions - children should not be drinking, of course, and many other people simply don't want to, and should not be expected to. They also make it clear that while moderate amounts are good, too much is not.

These recommendations are controversial, especially as many health experts argue it's wrong to give any pro-alcohol message.

Alcohol contributes to death and injury on the roads and other accidents. The Cancer Society says it may contribute to cancers of the mouth, upper digestive tract, liver and breast.

And the benefits of alcohol are not known to be universal. The lower risk of heart disease has been specifically linked only to certain groups, including postmenopausal women and men older than 45 years of age.

Exercise and weight control

The messages of the Food Pyramid are limited to food. But the Harvard pyramid recognises two other critical issues: that good health also involves regular exercise, and that the overall message should be to limit your food intake.

Again, these messages are not controversial, and it's agreed the current pyramid is inadequate for not including them.

What sort of exercise? It probably doesn't matter, as long you do it regularly.

And what sort of limits should there be on food intake? Put it this way: one reason people in the West are fatter is that we just eat too much. For many people, cutting back on the kilojoules, from whatever source, is the key.