The latest federal nutrition advice from the Trump administration, released on Wednesday, recommends that Americans increase their intake of whole foods and protein while reducing consumption of highly processed foods and added sugar. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins unveiled the 2025-2030 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide updated recommendations for a healthy diet and serve as the basis for federal nutrition programs and policies. Kennedy emphasized the importance of consuming real food during a White House briefing.
The guidelines highlight the importance of incorporating fresh vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products into a healthy eating plan. Additionally, they discourage the consumption of “highly processed” foods and refined carbohydrates, advising individuals to steer clear of salty or sweet packaged foods like chips, cookies, and candy, which fall under the category of ultra-processed foods known to contribute to chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity.
Contrary to earlier indications, the new guidance does not advocate for increased consumption of saturated fats. Instead, it suggests that individuals opt for whole-food sources of saturated fat like meat, whole-fat dairy, or avocados, while limiting saturated fat intake to no more than 10% of daily calories. The guidelines also mention alternatives such as butter or beef tallow, departing from previous recommendations to avoid these fats.
The dietary guidelines, mandated to be updated every five years, serve as a blueprint for a healthy diet. Despite this, research shows that a majority of Americans do not adhere to these recommendations, despite the high prevalence of diet-related chronic diseases in the country. The updated recommendations have garnered approval from notable nutrition experts, who see the shift towards whole foods and reduced highly processed carbohydrates as a positive step in promoting better health through diet.
The concise 10-page document aims to offer straightforward and easily understandable guidance to the public. It is expected to have a significant impact on programs like the National School Lunch Program, which must align its offerings with the guidelines to provide nutritious meals to nearly 30 million school children across the United States.