The food guide pyramid was developed by the US government and resembles a triangle, listing the healthiest foods at the bottom, and less healthy foods as the triangle narrows at the top.  In 2005, the food pyramid was changed to reflect a more individualized approach toward nutrition.  

When you visit www.mypyramid.gov, you will be asked a few questions, including age and level of activity per week.  Your answers will calculate a model of the best types of foods for you.  The food guide pyramid no longer has small pictures of various food in horizontal rows.  Instead, there are colored bars, which are shorter or wider depending on your personalized dietary needs.  You will get specific information about what types of foods you should eat and in what quantities.  

The food guide pyramid also offers a feature allowing you to check current weight, age, and activity level, and gives specific recommendations on how much activity you should aim for each day, as well as total calorie intake based on the best foods.  Changes to the food pyramid were prompted by the fact that individual people have individual caloric needs.  

Pyramid guidelines may need adjustment if you are trying to lose weight, or in the event that you are allergic to certain foods.  In such cases, you may want to consult a doctor about the best diet to meet your nutritional needs.  Adhering to the food guide pyramid allows you to maintain your weight, while increasing exercise and lowering your calorie intake will generally help you to lose weight.