New Government Dietary Guidelines

It seems that the government is focusing on tackling the obesity crisis head on, as they started off with the staggering statistic that 2/3 of Americans are overweight and 75 cents of every health care dollar is spent on obesity related chronic diseases.

The two main focuses of the 2010 Guidelines are: maintaining calorie balance over time to achieve and sustain a healthy weight; and focusing on consuming nutrient dense foods and beverages.

No one should consume more thnt 2300 mg (1 teaspoon) salt per day. For those aged 51 and older, African Americans, and those who have hypertension, type-2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease, (which currently makes up about half the general population of adults), the new recommendation is a maximum daily intake of 1,500mg. (Less than 3/4 teaspoon) The average daily intake among US adults is about 3,400mg.

Stronger language appears for recommendations to increase consumption of plant foods (vegetables, cooked dry beans and peas, fruits, whole grains and nuts and seeds). And seafood consumption of 8 oz (that is two servings) per week is encouraged.

The guidelines say to significantly reduce intake of foods containing added sugars and solid fats, as these dietary components contribute excess calories and few, if any, nutrients. As well as to lower intake of refined grains coupled with added sugars, solid fat, and sodium.

Also a shout out for Vitamin B12; a substantial proportion of individuals ages 50 years and older may have a reduced ability to absorb naturally occurring vitamin B12. The 50+ are encouraged to include foods that are fortified with vitamin B12, such as cereals, or to take dietary supplements.

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