The Dietary Guidelines for Americans are a set of recommendations published every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). They provide guidance on what and how much people should eat to maintain a healthy diet and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Background
The first set of Dietary Guidelines for Americans was published in 1980, and they have been updated every five years since then. The guidelines are based on the latest scientific research and are intended to inform public policy and help individuals make informed food choices.
Key Recommendations
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide a set of key recommendations to help people achieve and maintain a healthy diet:
- Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Limit saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium.
- Choose foods and beverages with less saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.
- Limit the consumption of alcohol.
- Stay within daily calorie needs.
Healthy Eating Patterns
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans also provide guidance on healthy eating patterns. These patterns emphasize a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Low-fat dairy
They also recommend limiting foods and beverages that are high in added sugars, saturated and trans fats, and sodium.
Physical Activity
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans also emphasize the importance of physical activity. They recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, as well as muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week.
Special Populations
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans also provide guidance for special populations, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children. These guidelines include recommendations for appropriate calorie intake, nutrient needs, and food choices.
Conclusion
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide evidence-based recommendations for healthy eating patterns and physical activity. By following these guidelines, individuals can reduce their risk of chronic diseases and improve their overall health and well-being.