Good nutrition plays a vital role in achieving and maintaining optimal health and is essential for the healthy growth and development of children. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, first published in 1980, provide science based guidance to promote health and reduce the risk for chronic diseases through healthy food choices and physical activity. The information contained within the Guidelines is targeted to the public over two years of age.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2015 – 2020, released in January 2016, emphasize five major goals for Americans:
- Follow a healthy eating pattern across the lifespan.
All food and beverage choices matter. Choose a healthy eating pattern at an appropriate calorie level to help achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, support nutrient adequacy, and reduce the risk of chronic disease. - Focus on variety, nutrient density, and amount.
To meet nutrient needs within calorie limits, choose a variety of nutrient dense foods across and within all food groups in recommended amounts. - Limit calories from added sugars and saturated fats and reduce sodium intake.
Adopt an eating pattern low in added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. Cut back on foods and beverages higher in these items to amounts that fit within healthy eating patterns. - Shift to healthier food and beverage choices.
Choose nutrient-dense foods and beverages across and within all food groups in place of less healthy choices. Consider cultural and personal preferences to make these shifts easier to accomplish and maintain. - Support healthy eating patterns for all.
Everyone has a role in helping to create and support healthy eating patterns and behaviors in multiple settings nationwide, from home to school to work to communities.
For more information on the Dietary Guidelines 2015 -2020 go to health.gov.
Other websites of interest include eatright.org.
Nutrition consultation with a registered and licensed dietitian is available in each of our clinics throughout the Green River District.
Contact Information
For more information contact the Nutrition Services Supervisor at (270) 852-5561