The new American dietary guidelines have sparked debate among nutrition specialists.
The guidelines highlight several food groups and place emphasis on certain types of food in the daily diet.
According to the health website Verywell Health, dietitian Grace A. Derocha from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics points out that some of the recommendations may appear unclear to consumers.
She particularly notes that the focus on products such as butter, animal fats, red meat, and full-fat dairy products could create uncertainty.
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At the same time, the guidelines recommend that saturated fat should account for no more than 10 percent of total calorie intake.
Research also shows, according to Grace A. Derocha, that saturated fat can be replaced with unsaturated fats from plant sources.
This can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Familiar dietary advice
Despite the discussion, many of the recommendations are based on well-known nutritional principles.
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Experts emphasize, among other things, the importance of eating more fruits and vegetables, more whole grains, and more dietary fiber.
At the same time, it is recommended to limit ultra-processed foods as well as foods high in sugar and salt.
Healthier fats are also highlighted as an important part of a balanced diet.
According to nutrition experts, many people already know what is healthy to eat. The biggest challenge is often maintaining good eating habits in everyday life.
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A new focus
Dietary guidelines must also be adapted to the individual. Age, lifestyle, and health can influence how much and what type of food is most appropriate.
This also applies to the choice of protein sources. Fish, eggs, meat, and dairy products, as well as beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds, can all be included in the diet.
The new American dietary guidelines recommend a higher intake of protein than before.
The guidelines suggest between 1.2 and 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day and recommend including protein in every meal.
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Sources: Verywell Health and the American dietary guidelines.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.