One of the keys to a healthy body is a healthy diet. Most Americans are familiar with the food pyramid. This chart breaks down the different food groups as well as the suggested daily consumption levels in a concise graphic. At the bottom of the food pyramid you have grains, then a layer of vegetables and fruits, then meat and dairy products and at the very top fats, oils, and sweets. It seems the tastier the food the higher its position on the pyramid. By each level of the food pyramid there is a “suggested” serving amount that decreases as you reach the top. Each food group by itself is not a healthy diet. Only by skillfully combining each group with the proper consumption suggested levels do you obtain a healthy balanced diet.

A healthy investments portfolio can also be viewed in much that same principle as the food pyramid. The key to a healthy investment portfolio is a healthy balanced asset allocation. Similar to the food pyramid, it is important to have a balanced mix of investments that is tailored to meet your individual objectives. Your blend of asset classes should be judged on your own personal goals, time horizons and risk tolerance. ‘One size does not fit all.’

The same is true with your investments. It is important to base your allocation on your own situation and personal goals and not on what you hear in the news, from friends, or from colleagues. Foods that we love aren’t always good for us and maintaining a healthy diet often takes work, but the pay off may lead to a longer healthier life. In times of volatility, investment portfolios can become skewed from the original allocation. To help maintain a healthy portfolio, it is important to work with your Financial Advisor to help ensure your allocation and financial strategies continue to keep you on the path of financial health.

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