January 13, 2005
Federal government’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 released
Note to News Editors: The University of Washington has dietary and nutrition experts available to discuss aspects of the new guidelines.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005 were issued today, Jan. 12, by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and the United States Department of Agriculture. Federal law requires a review every five years of the dietary guideline that form the basis of federal food programs, nutrition education programs, and Presidential fitness initiatives for the nation.
This year’s guidelines contain advice on physical activity, calorie intake, sensible use of alcohol, and food safety, as well as information on balancing food choices in a healthy manner. The goals of following the guidelines are to promote good health, build strong bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Compared to past editions, the 2005 guidelines place a stronger emphasis on controlling calorie intake, getting the best nutrition from calories consumed, and participating in regular physical activity.
The new guidelines do not contain any surprising information. Compared to past editions, among the newer issues addressed was caloric intake, particularly spending daily calorie limits wisely on good food choices. The committee also recognized the household expense of nutritious foods and the health disparities between the poor and the rich that may come from being unable to afford a healthy diet.
Despite or because of the resulting debates on the recommendations, the guidelines do increase public awareness of nutrition. “The issuance of the federal dietary guidelines reminds people of the importance of good nutrition in living a healthy life,” said Diane Javelli, a clinical nutritionist at the University of Washington (UW) Medical Center in Seattle.
This year’s guidelines fall into nine key areas:
- Weight management
- Physical activity
- Adequate nutrients within caloric needs
- Food groups to partake of regularly
- Food safety
- Fats
- Carbohydrates
- Sodium and potassium
- Sensible use of alcohol and who should avoid alcoholic beverages
The report has 41 specific recommendations, 23 for the general public and 18 for certain populations, such as women of childbearing age and people trying to eat a healthy diet on a tight budget.
People wanting to fit the guidelines into their routine might try adopting a few at a time until they become a habit; adapt the broad recommendations to meet their cultural or family preferences, daily schedule, or personal style; track their progress on a notepad or computer: and aim for consistency, not perfection.
The guidelines are available are available on the Web at http://www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines/. The corresponding Food Guidance System, once known as the Food Guide Pyramid, is likely to be released shortly.
