USDA's 2005 Dietary Guidelines emphasize calorie control and exercise

Food & Drink Weekly, Jan 17, 2005

In recognition that almost two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese, and more than half get too little physical activity, the government's 2005 Dietary Guidelines that were issued January 12 place a stronger emphasis on calorie control and physical activity.

"The new Dietary Guidelines highlight the principle that Americans should keep their weight within healthful limits and engage in ample physical activity," said Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman. "Taken together, the recommendations will help consumers make smart choices from every food group, get the most nutrition out of the calories consumed and find a balance between eating and physical activity."

Key recommendations: 1) Consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods and beverages within and among the basic food groups while choosing foods that limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, added sugars, salt, and alcohol; 2) To maintain body weight in a healthy range, balance calories from foods and beverages with calories expended; 3) Engage in regular physical activity and reduce sedentary activities to promote health, psychological well-being, and a healthy body weight; and 4) to lose weight, decrease calorie intake while maintaining an adequate nutrient intake and increasing physical activity.

USDA's dietary guidelines provide science-based advice to promote health and to reduce risk for major chronic diseases through diet and physical activity, according to a joint statement by USDA and the Department of Health & Human Services. Poor diet and physical inactivity, are resulting in a population that consumes more calories that it expends, the two most important factors contributing to the increase in overweight and obesity in the United States, says the statement. "Combined with physical activity, following a diet that does not provide excess calories according to the recommendations in this document should enhance the health of most individuals," according to the guidelines.

The sixth edition of Dietary Guidelines for Americans places stronger emphasis on reducing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity. This joint project of the Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture is the latest of the five-year reviews required by federal law. It is the basis of federal food programs and nutrition education programs and supports the nutrition and physical fitness pillars of President Bush's HealthierUS Initiative.