Frequenty Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's in Food FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • Where can I get information on the level of calories, fat, protein, vitamins and minerals in various foods?

  • What is the difference between calories and kilocalories?

  • Where can I find a chart or list of foods with calcium?

  • Is there a law that requires food labels to list ingredients that commonly cause food allergies?

  • Is the USDA Database for the Added Sugars Content of Selected Foods still available?



Smart Nutrition FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • I keep hearing about added sugars. Where can I find more information?

  • I heard that the Food Guide Pyramid has been replaced. Is that true?

  • What is a "healthy diet"?

  • How can I find the newest Dietary Guidelines for Americans?

  • I would like to get advice about my eating habits. Who should I talk to?

  • How many servings from each food group do I need each day?

  • I've heard that people should cut back on how much trans fat they eat but I'm confused about what trans fats are and what foods have them.

  • I know there are different types of fiber in foods and that they have different effects on the body. Can you tell me about them? How much fiber should I eat?

  • How is food digested?

  • How do I know if nutrition information I find on the internet is reliable?



Weight Management FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • How can I get enough nutrients without consuming too many calories?

  • How can I burn off my stored body fat?

  • How many calories do I need to burn to lose a pound of weight?

  • I'm on a diet to lose weight. Do I still need to exercise?



Nutrition and Health Issues FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • How can I get nutrition advice about a medical condition?

  • I just found out I have diabetes and need information to help me eat right.

  • Is it true that men can get osteoporosis? I thought it just affected women.

  • What is the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?

  • What are the most common foods that people are allergic to?



Shopping, Cooking and Meal Planning FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • Where can I get information on food labeling?

  • I've just moved to a new area and would like to find out if there is a farmers market nearby.

  • Years ago I received information from USDA on canning fruits and vegetables and would like to know how to get updated information.

  • Does USDA have menus or recipes for people on a budget?

  • How can I avoid foodborne illness and food poisoning?

  • How long should I keep leftover food?



Dietary Supplements FAQs
Find answers to questions like...

  • Can you direct me to information on dietary supplements (including herbal supplements) and alternative medicine?

  • Should I check with my physician or healthcare provider before taking a dietary supplement?

  • Is it true that I can get all the vitamins/minerals I need from the food that I eat?

  • Can a supplement help me lose weight?