The U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services released Monday the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It was the first update in five years in compliance with federal law. The guidelines made 23 recommendations for the general population and six for specific groups such as pregnant women.
Some quick thoughts on the new dietary guidelines:
- Eat more fruits and vegetables/Choose a variety of vegetables -- studies have shown that Americans don't eat their vegetables. In fact, only 23% of meals include a vegetable and the number of dinners prepared at home that included a salad was 17%. Their request is futile!
- Reduce daily sodium -- with the CDC, NY gov and others behind the goal to reduce sodium, Americans will be doing it without even knowing.
- Cut calorie intake -- even I have a hard time cutting calories and I track them...
- Switch to low fat milk-- I shutter every time I see someone drink whole milk.