Hi, Welcome to Healthy Planet, and I’m here to talk to you about The Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The Dietary Guidelines are a set of recommendations for what to eat and drink to meet nutrient needs, promote health, and prevent disease. They are developed by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Agriculture (USDA), and they are updated every five years.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 offer five overarching guidelines:
#1 Follow a healthy eating pattern across the lifespan.
#2 Focus on nutrient-dense foods and beverages.
#3 Limit calories from added sugars.
#4 Limit sodium intake. Limit saturated and trans fats.
The Dietary Guidelines also include a number of key recommendations for specific nutrients, such as calcium, iron, and vitamin D.
How to Follow the Dietary Guidelines
The Dietary Guidelines are designed to be flexible and adaptable to individual needs and preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to eating healthy. However, there are some general tips that can help you follow the Dietary Guidelines:
#1 Eat a variety of foods from all food groups.
#2 Choose nutrient-dense foods over less nutritious options.
#3 Limit your intake of added sugars, sodium, saturated and trans fats.
#4 Make healthy choices when eating out.
#5 Cook more meals at home.
#6 Read food labels carefully.
Following the Dietary Guidelines can help you improve your overall health and well-being. Eating a healthy diet can help you:
#1 Lose or maintain a healthy weight.
#2 Reduce your risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
#3 Improve your mood and energy levels.
#4 Have more energy.
#5 Look and feel your best.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to eat healthier. By following the Dietary Guidelines, you can improve your overall health and well-being.