The new federal dietary guidelines for 2025 to 2030 have a clear message: “Eat real food.” This fresh approach emphasizes more protein at every meal and full-fat dairy without added sugar. Jayden J. Chapman, a registered dietitian from UT Health Tyler Bariatric Center, recently shared his thoughts on these guidelines.
Chapman noted that while many recommendations remain unchanged, the new focus on protein is a positive shift. He explained, “The emphasis on increasing protein makes sense, as it has often been set too low.” This could align with recent trends, where a survey conducted by the International Food Information Council found that 70% of consumers are increasingly looking for higher protein options in their diets.
The guidelines, released on January 7 by U.S. Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, suggest reimagining the food pyramid. They encourage more consumption of protein, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains. “American households need to prioritize whole foods and cut down on highly processed foods,” Kennedy stated.
Historically, the old food pyramid placed fats and sugars at the top. Now, it flips upside down, allowing us to see which foods should be emphasized. While this is helpful for the average person, Chapman pointed out that deeper issues with America’s diet need addressing.
Research supports the guidelines’ focus on protein and healthy fats, including options like fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds. However, Chapman cautioned that while there are ongoing studies about fats’ health impacts, the guidelines still recommend limiting saturated fats to under 10% of daily caloric intake.
The guidelines also stress the importance of whole grains. “Whole grains keep their nutrients intact, whereas refined grains lose many of their benefits,” Chapman explained. This focus on fiber-rich foods is timely. According to the USDA, only 5% of Americans meet their daily fiber needs, contributing to health issues down the line.
School menus will feel the impact too, as they are required to align with these guidelines. Chapman compared the inverted pyramid to the “My Plate” graphic, which he believes is more intuitive for meal planning. Still, he expressed a desire for clearer distinctions between healthier and less healthy protein sources in the guidelines.
For individuals with health conditions, personalized nutrition plans are critical. Chapman advises consulting healthcare providers for tailored dietary advice. He highlighted a pressing issue: food deserts, areas where access to healthy foods is limited, particularly in low-income communities. This lack of access poses a significant barrier to improving dietary habits.
A staggering 90% of healthcare spending in the U.S. is linked to chronic diseases, many of which stem from poor diets. With over 70% of American adults overweight or obese and increasing rates of pre-diabetes among youth, these guidelines aim to shift the narrative.
Chapman encourages people to dive into the guidelines for comprehensive information, focusing on portion sizes and the importance of protein, fruits, and vegetables. “Eating well doesn’t have to be confusing,” he reassured. “Just aim for a solid protein source and plenty of whole grains and produce in your meals.”
For a deeper dive, check out the complete Dietary Guidelines for Americans [here](https://cdn.realfood.gov/DGA.pdf). You can also explore more on their [official site](https://realfood.gov/).
