The new Dietary Guidelines!
The world is abuzz with the release of America’s new Dietary Guidelines – a five-yearly document that influences national, and international, policy. So what do they say and what does this mean for us all?
The rainbow is in! Vegetables and whole fruits are championed alongside whole grains (which should make up at least 50% of total grain intake).
Red meat may be slipping off the menu, with citizens told to consume less than 10% of daily calories from saturated fats. However, protein remains aplenty with seafood, lean meats, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and soy all recommended.
Fats will feature on American plates, with oils earning their own category mention. Consumers are also recommended to opt for fat-free or low-fat dairy products and/or fortified soy drinks or milks as part of their regular diet.
History has been made, as the guidelines feature their first sugar limit (less than 10% of daily calories)! Salt levels are also referenced at less than 2,300 milligrams of daily sodium, with adults advised to keep alcohol consumption on the low.
Nutrient density, variety and quantities are your takeaway themes! Shoppers are urged to select from all the listed food groups, while respecting ‘appropriate calorie intakes’ for their personal health needs.
Home, school, work and community all get a mention; it seems everyone’s being encouraged to get in on the nutrition act!
A nutritionist’s thoughts…
Eating more of the rainbow, protein for balance, a focus on monitoring sugar and a wider sense of health-focused community. It’s about time we see these Angelique-approved themes being promoted to all!
Fats recognised as intrinsic to health must also be praised – all the latest research support this focus, as explained in my Fats of Life piece.
BUT there are still question marks!
No fat and low fat foods form one of the recommended guidelines, but all too often these remove the good fats and include more of those salt and sugar additives we’re looking to reduce! And how will consumers respond to percentage-based recommendations? I’m not so sure!
I’d love to dive into these (and many other) aspects with you, help you understand your personal nutritional needs, and share more on my personal foodie ethos. Do leave a comment or get in touch for more.
Nourishing well wishes,
Angelique
Consult your doctor or health care practitioner for any health problems, and before embarking on any new health regimes, using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications or food programmes.
