Government releases new dietary guidelines

Washington – The Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services on Jan. 31 released 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The nutritional guidelines are aimed at promoting health and reducing the risk of chronic disease and obesity.

“The 2010 Dietary Guidelines are being released at a time when the majority of adults and one in three children is overweight or obese,” Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said. “These new and improved dietary recommendations give individuals the information to make thoughtful choices of healthier foods in the right portions and to complement those choices with physical activity.”

This seventh edition of Dietary Guidelines for Americans places an increased emphasis on reducing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity. Americans are encouraged to eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, and low-fat or fat-free dairy, while consuming less sodium, saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and refined grains.