UPPER MICHIGAN. (WLUC) – This month, the FDA released new dietary guidelines for Americans.
The new food pyramid places a strong emphasis on protein and vegetables. Every five years or so, the FDA releases new dietary guidelines. This time, there is a focus on proteins and whole foods like fruits and vegetables.
Registered dietitian Dawn Lundin says that while the focus on protein is good. There are some discrepancies in the guidelines when it comes to components like saturated fats.
“Less than 10% of calories from saturated fat. But if we take the amount of fat, like if we really get into the weeds with those three servings of full-fat dairy with steak and butter,” Lundin said. “It’s not possible to get those three servings and keep your saturated fat intake less than 10%.”
Lundin also noted that whole grains are at the bottom of the pyramid. Yet there is an increase in the amount of recommended fiber, which comes from grains.
She says this can be confusing, but encourages everyone to reach out to a dietitian if they have concerns.
“I really try to get my clients that I’m working with that individualized approach. So talking through, you know, what do they do? If they have food allergies or health history, who are they cooking and preparing meals for and shopping for in their household? Because that all has to be taken into consideration,” Lundin said.
Businesses like MQT Nutrition are excited about the focus on whole foods. The store manager, Lauren Spranger, says the best way of achieving these new goals is to keep meals simple.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all. But if you are getting your protein sources from meat, literally cooking up chicken, steak, fish, anything like that, just cooking it in your oven or on the stovetop and then having it with a side of vegetables,” Spranger said.
Lundin says, at the end of the day, the best diet is the one that fits your dietary needs best.
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