Healthy Eating Index

The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) is a tool used to assess the quality of a person's diet. It measures how well the diet aligns with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which promote balanced and nutritious eating. The HEI scores foods and nutrients based on factors like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and limited saturated fats and sugars. A higher score indicates a healthier diet, while a lower score suggests areas for improvement. It helps researchers and public health officials understand dietary trends and develop strategies to encourage better eating habits in communities.