New Dietary Guidelines in the US: A Cause for Concern
The Italian Society of Human Nutrition (Sinu) has expressed concern over the potential impact of the new dietary guidelines in the United States on the food choices of the population. The guidelines, which feature an “upside-down” pyramid, may lead to unhealthy eating habits if not properly contextualized. According to Sinu experts, the US population already has unhealthy eating habits, with a high consumption of ready-to-eat and preserved foods, making up to 60% of their energy intake, compared to 20% in Italy.
Unhealthy Eating Habits in the US
The Sinu experts note that the previous dietary guidelines, which placed cereals at the base of the pyramid, have not prevented the worsening of the American health situation, with over 70% of adults suffering from overweight or obesity and almost one in three American teenagers suffering from prediabetes. However, they also point out that the data shows that Americans have never adopted these guidelines, except to a limited extent of 10% of the population.
Contradictions in the New Guidelines
One of the contradictions in the new guidelines is the recommendation to consume more meat to increase protein intake, without clarifying the quality of different protein foods. According to Sinu, “what is missing is clarity on the quality of different protein foods, especially when the majority of US consumers consume protein in more than sufficient quantities.” The experts also warn that substantially increasing overall protein intake, without distinguishing between different protein sources, can have unwanted long-term implications on health.
Lack of Clarity and Scientific Evidence
Another concern is the liberalization of the consumption of foods and condiments rich in fats of animal origin, which appear at the top of the pyramid and are defined as healthy fats, without scientific evidence to support this claim. Furthermore, the translation of the guidelines in the accompanying image is non-linear and does not clarify whether it is a pyramid intended as frequency of consumption or a simple triangle of food presentation in the form of food groups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Italian Society of Human Nutrition has raised important concerns about the potential impact of the new dietary guidelines in the US on the food choices of the population. While the guidelines may have some positive aspects, such as the recommendation to consume more “real food” like fruits and vegetables, they also contain contradictions and lack clarity and scientific evidence. For more information, read the full article Here