America is changing its eating habits. Though medical evidence mounts that we are  51  what we eat, consuming a healthier diet has become almost a national passion in the United States.

The food-for-fitness phenomenon began in the late 70's when a U.S. Senate committee leading  52  the conclusion that six out of ten leading causes of death such as heart disease and cancer might  53  diet. The government issued dietary guidelines  54  Americans to eat a variety of food, maintain proper weight, and limit intake of fat, salt, and sugar.

For most Americans what to eat is a matter of personal choice,  55  one of supply. An excellent nationwide food distribution system assures that fresh  56  is readily available in all parts of the country,  57  the season. Taking advantage of this abundance, many people are forsaking traditional meat-and-potatoes fare  58  lighter meals of salads, fruits, and vegetables.

One of the most significant trends in the American way of eating is the healthful change in restaurant food. One of  59  two meals in the United States is eaten outside the home.

Restaurants are making special efforts to provide low-fat, low-salt, and low-calorie items. Salad bars,  60  with fresh greens and raw fruits and vegetables, are found everywhere.